1939 Buick 40 Special: A Sophisticated Step Forward
The 1939 Buick 40 Special represented a significant evolution for Buick's popular mid-range offering. Building upon the established foundation of its predecessors, the "Special" designation signified a model that was both stylish and accessible, aiming to provide a touch of premium comfort and engineering without the top-tier pricing of Buick's more luxurious lines. For 1939, Buick, under the direction of General Motors' styling chief Harley Earl, introduced a more streamlined and modern aesthetic, moving away from some of the more boxy designs of the earlier part of the decade.
Design and Styling:
The 1939 Special showcased a refined and contemporary appearance. Key design elements included:
- Streamlined Silhouette: The bodywork featured smoother lines and a more flowing profile, contributing to a more aerodynamic and elegant look.
- "Torpedo" Style Body: Many of the body styles, particularly the sedans and coupes, adopted the increasingly popular "torpedo" body style, characterized by its integrated fenders and a generally more rounded form.
- Front-End Redesign: The grille received updates, often featuring a wider, more prominent design with vertical bars, giving the car a more commanding presence. The headlights were typically integrated into the front fenders, contributing to the streamlined look.
- Emphasis on Glass Area: Buick continued its trend of increasing the amount of glass, offering improved visibility for both driver and passengers.
- Body Style Variety: The 40 Special was available in a range of popular body styles, including a two-door coupe, a four-door sedan, and a convertible, catering to diverse customer needs and preferences.
Mechanicals and Performance:
Under the hood, the 1939 Buick 40 Special was powered by Buick's robust and reliable "Straight-Eight" engine.
- Engine: The primary engine for the 40 Special was a 233 cubic inch (3.8-liter) L-head straight-eight producing approximately 107 horsepower. This engine was known for its smooth operation and good torque delivery, providing a comfortable and confident driving experience.
- Transmission: The standard transmission was a three-speed manual gearbox. While an automatic transmission (Buick's "Dyna-Flow") was emerging in the luxury segment, the Special typically offered the more conventional manual.
- Suspension and Ride: Buick was renowned for its comfortable ride, and the 1939 Special was no exception. It featured independent front suspension (a significant advancement in automotive engineering at the time) and a solid rear axle. This combination, along with carefully tuned suspension, provided a plush and composed ride, soaking up road imperfections effectively.
- Brakes: Hydraulic drum brakes were employed on all four wheels, offering improved stopping power and control compared to older mechanical systems.
Interior and Features:
The interior of the 1939 Buick 40 Special reflected its positioning as a step above entry-level models, offering a good balance of comfort and practicality.
- Spacious Cabin: Buick interiors were typically well-appointed and offered ample space for passengers.
- Quality Materials: While not as opulent as Buick's higher-end lines, the Special's interior featured durable and attractive upholstery, dashboard materials, and trim.
- Standard Features: Expect features like a comfortable bench seat, a simple yet functional dashboard with essential gauges, and durable interior fabrics. Optional features might have included a heater or a radio, which were still considered luxury items for many.
Market Position and Legacy:
The 1939 Buick 40 Special occupied a crucial segment of the automotive market, offering a compelling blend of style, performance, and comfort at a competitive price point. It appealed to a broad range of buyers seeking a dependable and sophisticated American automobile. Its success contributed to Buick's strong sales performance in the pre-war era, cementing its reputation for producing quality vehicles with a touch of class. The 1939 Special stands as a testament to Buick's ability to deliver desirable and well-engineered cars that captured the spirit of automotive progress in the late 1930s.