Image of 1963 Buick Special, sourced from www.raleighclassic.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the Charm of the 1963 Buick Special

The 1963 Buick Special cruised onto the scene with a blend of sophistication and performance that was unmatched in its class. As a product of the esteemed Buick Motor Division of General Motors, this vehicle was not just another car on the road; it was a statement. At a time when America's love affair with the automobile was hitting new heights, the Special stood out for its unique combination of luxury and innovation. It was during an era when space-age dreams were becoming realities, and this Buick managed to capture some of that starry-eyed optimism on four wheels.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1963 Buick Special was a testament to mid-century American automotive design, with its sleek lines and eye-catching chrome accents. The car's long hood and short rear deck gave it a sporty profile, while the distinctive Buick grille and 'Sweepspear' side molding added elegance. Inside, passengers were treated to an interior that prioritized comfort and style. The quality of materials—from plush seating fabrics to polished dashboards—reflected Buick's commitment to craftsmanship. Technologically, it featured innovations like an optional aluminum V8 engine, which offered a commendable balance between power and efficiency for its time.

Color options ranged from conservative hues to vibrant tones, with popular choices including Arctic White and Regal Black. The Special came in various body styles such as sedans, coupes, convertibles, and even station wagons. However, the convertible model, with its drop-top charm, often stole the spotlight.

Historical Significance

The 1963 Buick Special was more than just another car; it was a harbinger of change in the automotive industry. Its compact yet powerful aluminum V8 engine set new standards for American car design and influenced future generations of engines. This innovation not only boosted performance but also improved fuel economy—a consideration that would become increasingly important in years to come.

Performance and Handling

Performance-wise, the Special's available 215 cubic inch V8 engine propelled it from 0-60 mph in a respectable timeframe for its era. While top speed figures were not record-breaking, they were more than adequate for both highway cruising and city driving. Handling was characterized by a smooth ride quality typical of Buicks, with enough responsiveness to instill driver confidence through turns and over varying road conditions. Behind the wheel, one could expect to hear the subtle purr of the engine—a sound that evoked reliability and power.

Ownership Experience

Owners of the 1963 Buick Special often enjoyed a versatile driving experience—it served well as a daily driver but also shone as a show car due to its classic appeal. Maintenance was straightforward by vintage car standards, making it a favorite among enthusiasts who preferred hands-on involvement with their vehicles.

Fun Facts

The 1963 Buick Special had its share of quirks and accolades. For instance, it was one of the first cars to offer an alternator instead of a traditional generator. While not common knowledge, some celebrities were known to drive these stylish machines, adding to their allure. Although not known for breaking speed records, it set sales records for Buick at the time.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors find value in the 1963 Buick Special not only for its aesthetics but also for its place in automotive history. While production numbers were relatively high—with tens of thousands made—finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. Values range widely based on condition but expect well-maintained models to fetch anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more at auction or private sale.

Conclusion

The 1963 Buick Special is more than just a relic from another era—it's a piece of automotive history that continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike. With its blend of style, performance, and innovation, it remains an enduring symbol of an optimistic age when cars were not just transportation but expressions of personality and freedom.

1963 Buick Special Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1963 Buick Special Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D-BN 11Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high, with 5/8" I.D. Each

1963 Buick Special Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit-BNK 23Front Stabilizer End Repair Kit. 22-piece set for two stabilizer bars. Contains all rubber bushings, washers, bolts and nuts, enough for one front end. Set

1963 Buick Special Door Side Seal ('64-'66 some models)-C/LP 40-DDoor Side Seal ('64-'66 some models). Smooth skin-covered sponge with clips already installed, 4" apart. For seal without clips, see LP 40-D. Sold by the foot.

1963 Buick Special Door Bumper. 1-3/16" high X 5/8" wide X 1" long. Each-DB 33-BDoor Bumper. 1-3/16" high X 5/8" wide X 1" long. Each

1963 Buick Special Hood Side Bumper. Fits 3/4" wide slot. Each-HF 26-BHood Side Bumper. Fits 3/4" wide slot. Each

1963 Buick Special Trip Meter Reset Knob. Made of black rubber-KN 10Trip Meter Reset Knob. Made of black rubber. Compare to measurements: 1/8" I.D., 7/16" O.D. X 1/2" tall. Each

1963 Buick Special Odometer Trip Knob. Made of black rubber-KN 11Odometer Trip Knob. Made of black rubber. Compare to measurements: 1/8" I.D., 7/16" O.D. X 7/16" tall. Each

1963 Buick Special Door Side Seal-LP 40-DDoor Side Seal, Without Clips ('64-'66 some models) For seal with clips, see C/LP 40-D. Sold by the foot

1963 Buick Special Door Handle Pads. 2-5/8" long & 1-1/8" long. Set R&L-MP 989-DDoor Handle Pads. 2-5/8" long & 1-1/8" long. Set R&L

1963 Buick Special Hydro-Electric Power Unit Mounting Cushion-RP 710Hydro-Electric Power Unit Mounting Cushion. For convertibles only. Each

1963 Buick Special Trunk Bumper. Fits lower corner on decklid. 15/16" O.D-SB 34Trunk Bumper. Fits lower corner on decklid. 15/16" O.D., 11/16" high. Each

1963 Buick Special Door Bumper, 57-74 GM Cars, Made with Twin Retainers, Each-SB 35Door Bumper, 57-74 GM Cars, made with twin retainers, Each. Measure 1-1/16" high X 19/32" wide X 1-1/32" long.

1963 Buick Special Glove Box and Fuel Door Bumper. Fits 3/16" hole. Each-SB 78Glove Box and Fuel Door Bumper. Fits 3/16" hole. Each

1963 Buick Special Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D-UM 1600-100Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each

1963 Buick Special Flocked Window Channel. 48" Piece. Each-WC 22-48Flocked Window Channel. 48" Piece. Each

1963 Buick Special Flocked Window Channel. 96" Piece. Each-WC 22-96Flocked Window Channel. 96" Piece. Each