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1947 Buick Special Series 40: A Post-War Automotive Icon

The year 1947 marked a significant turning point in automotive history, and at the forefront was the Buick Special Series 40. As the world emerged from the shadows of war, this vehicle became a symbol of American resilience and innovation. Manufactured by Buick, a division of General Motors known for its luxurious and well-engineered automobiles, the Special Series 40 was a beacon of hope and progress. With its distinctive design and advanced features for the era, it captured the imagination of a nation ready to move forward. One particularly intriguing fact about this car is that it was one of the first post-war models to hit the market, offering civilians a taste of modernity that had been put on hold during wartime.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1947 Buick Special Series 40 was nothing short of majestic. Its sweeping lines and broad shoulders exuded confidence, while the iconic waterfall grille and portholes along the hood—known as "VentiPorts"—became synonymous with the brand. The interior was equally impressive, boasting plush seating upholstered in high-quality fabrics and an art deco-inspired dashboard that made drivers feel like they were at the helm of luxury. Technological features such as a heater-defroster and an optional radio set this car apart from many competitors. Color options ranged from stately blacks and blues to more adventurous hues like Carlsbad Black or Sequoia Cream, with the latter being quite popular among buyers.

Body styles included sedans, coupes, convertibles, and estate wagons. The two-door Sedanet was particularly iconic, with its fastback profile that would influence automotive design for years to come.

Historical Significance

The 1947 Buick Special Series 40 didn't just represent a return to civilian life; it set new standards in automotive design. Its combination of luxury, affordability, and performance made it a standout model that would shape consumer expectations well into the 1950s. The vehicle's lasting influence can be seen in the continued presence of VentiPorts on modern Buicks—a nod to an era when design and functionality went hand in hand.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its elegant exterior lay a robust straight-8 engine that propelled the Special Series 40 to top speeds that were impressive for its time. Acceleration from 0-60 mph was achieved with vigor, though exact figures vary based on contemporary testing methods. On the road, drivers enjoyed a smooth ride thanks to a well-tuned suspension system that absorbed bumps with grace. The sound of the engine was a reassuring purr—a reminder of Buick's engineering prowess—and handling was surprisingly nimble for a car of its size.

Ownership Experience

The 1947 Buick Special Series 40 served many roles—from daily transportation to weekend showpiece or even as an occasional racer in vintage events. Owners found maintenance straightforward due to Buick's reliable engineering and widespread availability of parts. While not without its quirks—the car's size could make it cumbersome in tight spaces—overall reliability was commendable.

Fun Facts

This classic has been featured in numerous films and owned by celebrities over the years, adding to its allure. While not known for breaking speed records, it did set sales records for Buick at the time. Criticisms were few but included comments on fuel consumption—a common trait among vehicles of this era.

Collector's Information

Today, a well-preserved 1947 Buick Special Series 40 can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $50,000 or more depending on condition and originality. It is estimated that tens of thousands were produced; however, surviving numbers are much lower due to time's toll. The market has seen these vehicles appreciate in value as they become rarer and more sought after by collectors who cherish their historical significance.

Conclusion

The 1947 Buick Special Series 40 stands as a testament to American ingenuity in the face of adversity. It represents not just an era but also an ethos where style met substance on four wheels. For those lucky enough to own one today, it offers not just a slice of history but also an enduring legacy of what it means to drive with distinction.

1947 Buick Special Series 40 Flexible glass-run channel-WC 11-72Flexible glass-run channel. Mohair lined, cloth covered with stainless steel bead. Used on side windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned in two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.

1947 Buick Special Series 40 Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead-WC 8-72Flexible sweeper. Made with stainless steel bead. Used on inner and outer beltlines. Also forms easily for use with sliding quarter windows. 72 in. long. Each. NOTE: $20 special shipping charge applies for domestic orders. Call or email for overseas shipping costs. Part can be sectioned into two equal lengths to reduce overseas shipping costs.