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1956 Buick Special Model 41
4dr Sedan
8-cyl. 322cid/220hp 2bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$13,000*
0%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Jan 2025
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1954-1956 Buick Special stats
Highest sale
$104,500
Lowest sale
$3,710
Most recent sale
$32,367
Sales
171
Photos
1 photoImage may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$17,167
1955 Buick Special Model 48
34000 M
Automatic
North America
Mar 10, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$16,800
1956 Buick Special Model 46R
58000 M
Automatic
North America
Jan 29, 2025Bring a Trailer
View details
$14,850
1954 Buick Special Model 46R
Automatic
North America
Jan 24, 2024Barrett-Jackson
View details
$18,150
1956 Buick Special Model 46R
Automatic
North America
Jan 23, 2024Barrett-Jackson
View details
$13,200
1956 Buick Special Model 43
87383 M
Automatic
North America
Jan 23, 2024Barrett-Jackson
View details
$15,515
1954 Buick Special Deluxe Model 48D
Automatic
North America
Jun 4, 2023Bring a Trailer
View details
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Model overview
Model description
Buick’s entry-level Special was all-new for 1954, with a wider and lower stance, a less pronounced rear fender hump, blunt tailfins, new steering linkage, and better power steering. The mid-size model was the best-selling Buick, and was offered at a two-door sedan, a two-door Riviera hardtop (itself the best-selling Special for the year), a four-door sedan, a four-door station wagon, and a six-passenger convertible. Hardtops and convertibles had rounded rear wheel arches while the sedan and wagon had them squared off. All body styles had trim over the top of the arch, as well as three ventiports and a striking waterfall grille. Special prices ranged from $2,200 to $3,163.
Under the hood, the Special was powered by a new 264-cid V-8 engine that generated 146 hp when paired to a three-speed manual transmission, and 150 hp when mated to the Dynaflow automatic shifter.
The 1955 model year was notable for a power boost courtesy of a four-barrel carburetor that now rated the Special’s V-8 at 188 hp. A new variable-pitch Dynaflow automatic transmission livened up the car’s acceleration. Also, along with Oldsmobile, the industry’s first four-door hardtop sedan appeared. All Specials received a bolder grille, more pronounced “Dagmar” bumpers, and well-defined rear fins. Inside, upholstery was upgraded and sliding sun shades were added. Color choices were greatly expanded as well. Buick Special production accounted for more than half of the brand’s total sales.
This generation of Special’s final year saw minimal exterior changes. The grille curved forward more, the Dagmar bumpers were flattened, and all body styles had a curved rear wheel arch. More importantly, the same 322-cid engine became standard across all models, with the Special’s V-8equipped with a two-barrel carburetor in for 220 hp. The Dynaflow transmission was improved further, with two stator wheels and faster 0-60 times.
All three years of these Buick Specials are solid collector cars, with a good turn of speed, handsome colors, and available trim packages. From a collector standpoint, 1955 is the most user friendly year as so many were sold. Parts, and trim in particular, will be much easier to find. As with any older car, buy the best car available, as it invariably costs more to fix a rough one.
Vehicle specifications
- Shipping Weight3790 lbs
- Vehicle Length205.1 in
- Wheelbase - Inches122 in
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Common Questions
The value of a 1956 Buick Special Model 41 can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $13,000 for a 1956 Buick Special Model 41 in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1956 Buick Special Model 41 at auction over the last three years was $28,600. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1956 Buick Special Model 41 at auction over the last three years was $28,600. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 1 1956 Buick Special Model 41s sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1956 Buick Special Model 41 was $28,600 on January 24, 2023 by Barrett-Jackson.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.