1937 Buick Special
The 1937 Buick Special marked a significant evolution for Buick's mid-range offering, embodying the brand's commitment to style, comfort, and value within the General Motors lineup. Building upon the success of its predecessors, the Special received a substantial redesign for 1937, reflecting the increasingly aerodynamic and modern aesthetic of the era.
Design and Styling:
The 1937 Special showcased a distinctly updated and more streamlined appearance compared to previous models. Key design elements included:
- Front End: A more prominent and upright grille, often referred to as a "waterfall" grille, became a signature feature. It was typically flanked by deeply set, teardrop-shaped headlamps integrated into the fenders. The hood was longer and more sculpted, contributing to the car's imposing presence.
- Body Lines: The body featured smoother, more flowing lines, with fenders that were more integrated into the overall body shape. There was a noticeable absence of sharp angles, replaced by gentle curves.
- Windshield: The windshield was typically a two-piece unit, often slanted for a more modern look.
- Interior: Inside, the Special offered a comfortable and well-appointed cabin for its class. Upholstery options often included durable fabrics and leatherette, with attention paid to detail in the dashboard layout and instrumentation.
Body Styles:
Buick offered the 1937 Special in a variety of popular body styles to cater to diverse consumer needs:
- Two-Door Sedan: A practical and popular choice, offering seating for four to five occupants.
- Four-Door Sedan: The quintessential family car, providing ample space for passengers and cargo.
- Coupe (e.g., Business Coupe, Rumble Seat Coupe): Sportier options that appealed to a younger demographic or those seeking a more personal vehicle.
- Convertible Coupe: A stylish and desirable option for open-air motoring.
Powertrain and Performance:
Under the hood, the 1937 Buick Special was typically powered by:
- Engine: A Buick Straight-Eight "Series 40" engine. This overhead-valve (OHV) inline-eight cylinder engine provided smooth and reliable performance, a hallmark of Buick engineering. The displacement was approximately 233 cubic inches, producing around 93 horsepower.
- Transmission: Mated to a three-speed manual transmission, with a column-mounted shifter for ease of operation.
- Suspension and Brakes: The car featured a solid front axle and a live rear axle, suspended by transverse leaf springs at the front and semi-elliptical leaf springs at the rear. Braking was handled by hydraulic drum brakes on all four wheels, a significant advancement in braking technology at the time.
Key Features and Innovations:
The 1937 Buick Special incorporated several features that enhanced its appeal and usability:
- "Fore-and-Aft" Steering: Buick's patented steering system provided a more comfortable and easier driving experience.
- Roller-Bearing U-Joints: Contributing to smoother power delivery.
- Synchromesh Transmission: Facilitating easier gear changes.
- Thermostatically Controlled Engine Cooling: Optimizing engine temperature for better performance and longevity.
Market Position and Legacy:
The 1937 Buick Special was positioned as a well-equipped and stylish option within the mid-priced automobile market. It competed with other popular models from Ford, Chevrolet, Plymouth, and Chrysler, offering a compelling blend of luxury features and everyday practicality. The Special series consistently contributed to Buick's strong sales figures and solidified its reputation as a manufacturer of quality, comfortable, and good-looking automobiles. Today, the 1937 Buick Special is appreciated by collectors and enthusiasts for its iconic styling, robust engineering, and its representation of automotive design during a transformative period in automotive history.