Summary

322ci Nailhead V8 with Twin Turbine Dynaflow transmission. Recipient of a full restoration and finished in Matador Red with two-tone red and white leather interior.

Details

In 1953, Buick was celebrating its 50th anniversary as a company. As part of the celebration, they introduced a new top-of-the-line model based on the Roadmaster convertible, called the Skylark. Designed by Ned Nickles, a protégé of Harley Earl, the Skylark had almost the exact same dimensions as the Roadmaster but shared only a few common elements. The majority of each car was assembled by hand, requiring top-level craftsmanship and engineering. The Skylark featured several firsts for Buick, including the new 322ci Nailhead V8 engine, backed with the Twin Turbine Dynaflow automatic transmission and a 12-volt electrical system. All of this, combined with a long list of standard options, pushed the Skylark to an MSRP of $4,596, making it the most expensive American luxury car of the time. This particular Skylark was the recipient of a full restoration, finished in the color combination of a Matador Red exterior with two-tone red and white interior. It features classic whitewall tires with chrome spoke wheels, and a Continental kit on the rear rounding out the classic style of the car. It has power brakes and steering, with a white power convertible top. This car is a great example of design from the golden age of automotive style.