1936 Buick Series 40 Special 4 Door Sedan

Buick introduced the 'Special' name to the Series 40 for 1936, continuing as the entry-level model within the Buick range.  Buick began using the 'Series 40' designation in 1930 for its entry-level six-cylinder model.  The six-cylinder powerplant did not make it out of 1930, replaced in 1931 by three new straight-eight engines.  The overhead-valve six-cylinder engine of the 1930 Series 40 with 257.5ci delivered 80 horsepower while the new entry-level 220.7ci eight delivered 77 horsepower, (two extra cylinders but a smaller displacement).  Buick's model lineup for 1931 was absent from the Series 40, comprising the Series 50, Series 60, Series 80, and Series 90.  It would remain this way until 1934 when the low-priced Series 40 returned on May 12th of 1934.  Its 117-inch wheelbase was longer than that of the 1933 Series 50, however, it was both much lighter in weight and less expensive.  Prices began at $795 for the two-door business coupe and rose to just over $900 for the sedan with built-in trunk.  The Series 40 was the only Buicks to receive dual exterior-mounted horns in 1934.  Buick added new color options and additional exterior trim to the Series 40 for 1936, along with a lockable glovebox, and dual windshield wipers.  A new convertible coupe body style joined the lineup, and mechanical updates included an improved timing chain to combat the durability issues of the previous unit, along with updates to the clutch.  The painted headlight shells were one of the most visual differences separating the Series 40 with its siblings, which had chrome headlight shells.

This 1936 marque mid-size Buick entry level vehicle is a wonderful running vehicle that has undergone a comprehensive restoration including a Doug Meyers rebuilt engine, new clutch, new brakes, and a host of other new and rebuilt parts.  It is wearing beautiful black paint, stainless trim and chrome bumpers.  A beautiful example with very few faults to be seen, an honest version of what Buick had to offer in 1936.

Exterior
Imperial Black covers this 4 door sedan with nary a flaw or imperfection to be seen without using a magnifying glass or jewels loupe.  The chrome bumpers and brightwork retain their charming beauty and show well.  Deep set black bullet style headlights, and fender mounted turn signals adorn the front of the car along with bumperettes attached to the blingy front bumper.  All of this lighting is mounted around the split horizontal bar grille which also looks lovely with its red Buick 8 badge.  Black running boards integrate to the fenders which holds a fully encased spare tire cover mounted within the sweeping driver's fender.  A wonderful hump back trunk compartment gives the car a nice finishing line to the back of the car.  Art Deco style brightwork and handles are all in wonderful condition.  Like new medium white sidewall tires wrap black painted steel wheels and are capped by Buick nameplate moon style hubcaps.  All of the glass is showing nicely with no signs of delamination and I can't get enough of the large and in charge design and split frame windshield.

Interior
A fresh new interior is installed in gray Bedford cloth, a change from the original color and material, and there is plenty of it on both front and rear bench seats, door panels, headliner, and even door jambs have a hint of it next to the wind lace and beading.  The upper door panels and dash are painted a beautiful black and highlight the gray cloth nicely.  The dash presents perfectly with the Art Deco style cream colored instrumentation and the original banjo steering wheel all working together to create the “look”.  A glovebox clock, as well as chrome knob covers, and symmetrical panels coordinate with lush gray carpeting all in very good condition complete the interior.

Drivetrain
The Buick Valve In Head straight eight which is touted as silent oil cushioned displaces 233ci engine and stretches the length of the engine bay and looks clean as a whistle in striking dark green.  This engine was rebuilt approximately 2,000 miles ago by Doug Meyers and we note a single Stromberg dual downdraft barrel carburetor, topped by an oil bath air filter to feed the air and fossils.  A selective sliding gear 3-speed manual transmission with a new clutch, pressure plate, and throwout bearing put plenty of smooth power to the 4.40 geared rear axle.  Not a high-speed cruiser, but a solid combination that allows you to go forever and at a reasonable pace.  Our consignor notes that the generator and starter were treated to a rebuild, a new water pump was installed, the radiator was cleaned and rebuilt, and a new fuel pump was installed to ensure trouble free operation.

Undercarriage
The undercarriage was not overlooked during the restoration as it presents with strong solid steel for the framing and floors with just a touch of surface rust here and there.  Side rockers and body hangers are in good condition and structurally sound.  No invasive rust damage anywhere to be seen.  Independent coil springs for the upfront suspension and leaf springs for the back are seen.  Drum brakes are all around and have recently been fully rebuilt with a new master cylinder, lines, hoses, shoes and hardware.  A stock replacement style exhaust system is in charge of the exhale and is looking just dandy.

Drive-Ability
This big car fired right up and off to the test track where it produced a very smooth enjoyable ride.  Good acceleration, strong shifting and good braking are just a few of the highlights of my experience.  Not a frown or hiccup was to be noted during my time behind the wheel and frankly I enjoyed myself so much I took a few cool down laps around the track so I could soak in all the Art Deco perfection.

This beautiful big Buick graces our Hallowed Halls here at the Mall and is a real standout.  Beautifully restored in original Imperial Black, wonderful trimmings, Art Deco inspired living room-esque interior, and mechanically sound.  Fly under the Cadillac radar without sacrificing luxury in this preserved and restored "entry level" sedan.

TRIM TAG

1936 MODEL 41-Series 40 Special Sedan
STYLE NO 36 4419-Series 40 Special 4 Door Sedan
BODY NO 34901
TRIM NO 246-Taupe Mohair
PAINT NO 420-Imperial Black

Classic Auto Mall is a 336,000-square foot classic and special interest automobile showroom, featuring over 850 vehicles for sale with showroom space for up to 1,000 vehicles. Also, a 400 vehicle barn find collection is on display. This vehicle is located in our showroom in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, conveniently located just 1-hour west of Philadelphia on the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. The website is www.classicautomall.com and our phone number is (888) 227-0914. Please contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.