1953 Buick Skylark Convertible

In the 1950s, the economy was in full swing and Americans were more prosperous than they had ever been.  So were America's automakers, who in a burst of enthusiasm, fielded a fleet of glitzy flagship models for 1953.  1953 marked the 50th anniversary of Buick, a motor company that, despite its humble origins in Flint, Michigan, had developed into a powerhouse within the greater General Motors Corporation and a maker of luxurious automobiles.  The Buick Skylark served as the flagship model for the Buick brand, however the expensive price tag of $5,000 back in 1953 outpriced some Cadillac models, and the Skylark went on to only sell 1,690 units.  To the collector however, this low production number makes this car very desirable.

This 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible is presented in Majestic White exterior paint and luxuriously fitted with "soft-tanned choice cowhide" in a two tone black and white pattern.  White stitching works to accentuate the luxury feeling of the interior.  Interior trim and switches all have a very polished and solid feel.  Chrome is well suited to this 1950s era car with chrome touching the front and rear bumper as well as a unique trim piece running down the side of the car to the rear wheels.  The wheels are completed with chrome plated wire wheels, made up of 40 individual wire spokes and fitted to classic white wall tires.  The Skylark was designed to be more sporty, in response the small european sports cars which started to land in the United States during this time.  As a result, the Skylark featured a lower "belt line" and boasted that "with the top up it stands less than 5 feet high."

The success of the Skylark was undoubtedly due to its numerous trend setting features, such as V8 power, a 12-volt electrical system, full cutout wheel openings, and stylish "sweep spear" chrome body accents which would find their way onto future Buick models. Equally impressive was the car's construction, which, although related to the Roadmaster model, bears body paneling unique to the Skylark, and was virtually handmade. In fact, a sportier stance was achieved by lowering the top and seating position merely a few inches.

Under the hood sits the 322 cu. in. 188 horsepower fireball engine with an airpower carburetor.  Buick's new fireball engine had its largest-bore engine in the past 25 years. "Perhaps the most interesting feature is the combustion chamber," wrote John Bond in Road & Track. "Valves are arranged vertically and in line. This requires a specially shaped piston crown to achieve the desired compression ratio, set at 8.5 to 1, the highest in the industry.  The basic block served Buick until 1970.  Transmission on Skylark is the twin turbine dynaflow drive which featured two speeds.  Other luxury options include power brakes, power steering, easy eye glass and "selectronic" radio.

The Skylark presented here was acquired by Mr. McMullan for his collection and should be considered alongside its Fiesta and Eldorado peers, which are also white in color, completing the McMullen Collection's "Grand Slam" or "Triple Crown" group of cars.  It is a very well restored example of Buick's flagship sporty convertible.  The body-off-frame restoration was conducted with utmost attention to detail and professionalism.  The same level of professionalism continues on through the interior; the black and white leather upholstery is free of any imperfections. The instruments, chrome, and carpeting all appear to be virtually flawless with only minor flaws in the horn emblem and driver's side vinyl. The workmanship in the door jams is impressive as well, with proper paint and very nice fit. In fact, the car's many special features, including factory clock and radio, Continental Kit, twin mirrors, as well as power top, antenna, windows, and seats all function seamlessly.

Overall, this particular 1953 Buick Skylark Convertible is in excellent condition and practically concours ready. From its beautiful grille to its trendsetting curvaceous design, the Skylark was truly a luxury convertible with styling to be admired and desired. It, along with its "Grand Slam" or "Triple Crown" companions, represents a rare opportunity to own a part of General Motors' Golden Anniversary and a crucial milestone in Buick's history, exemplified in black and white elegance.  Everything about this Buick Skylark has a luxurious flare and the 1950s time era is perfectly captured by the great styling of this convertible.  Come by Legendary Motorcar and travel back in time to visit an excellent example of the sought after Buick model from the 1950s.