Description
This car is Lot 175 to be auctioned by Bonhams|Cars at The Quail Auction on Friday August 15, please see the Bonhams website for full details.
Public Viewing:
Available Wednesday August 13 from 09:00 until 18:00, Thursday 14 August from 09:00 until 18:00, and Friday 15 August from 08:30 onwards, at The Quail Lodge.
Lot 175
1954 Buick Skylark Convertible
Registration no.
Chassis no. A1047340
322ci OHV "Fireball" V8 Engine
Single Downdraft Carburetor
200bhp at 4, 000rpm
4-Speed Dynaflow Automatic Transmission
4-Wheel Hydraulic Brakes
Independent Front Longitudinal Leaf Spring Rear Suspension
* A top-of-the-line example of one of Buick's most famous models
* One of just 836 Skylark convertibles produced
* Recipient of a very well executed restoration
* Showing less than 65, 900 miles, believed to be original
* Great car for display on the show field or for a nice spin on the open road
* Finished in Titian Red over a Red interior with a White top
THE BUICK SKYLARK
Three special convertible models graced General Motors' 1953 catalogs. Cadillac's Eldorado featured standard chrome wire wheels and a top hidden, when lowered, by a body-color metal cover. The Oldsmobile 98 Fiesta came with every conceivable factory option except air conditioning. Both cars presaged the wraparound windshields that GM would usher in on the upscale marques for 1954. A model apart from the two was Buick's 1953 Skylark.
While the Eldorado and Fiesta were based on standard convertible bodies, the Skylark was something completely different. Although on the Roadmaster chassis, it had its own distinctive fender lines, and unlike the sibling specials retained a simple curved windshield. Called the "Anniversary Convertible," it commemorated Buick's 50th birthday and came standard with virtually all options, including Kelsey Hayes chrome wire wheels. With 1, 690 built, the Skylark outsold the Eldorado and Fiesta by nearly three to one.
For 1954, the Skylark became a series unto itself, and the body was substantially redesigned. Rear fenders were bobbed, sloping gently down, and large chrome taillight nacelles were added. Finally there was a wraparound windshield, as on all '54 Buicks, and the wheel cutouts were enlarged and elongated, their contrasting color providing a visual accent. At $4, 355 it was the most expensive Buick, priced more than $800 above the most expensive Roadmaster.
THE CAR OFFERED
The 1954 Buick Skylark Convertible offered here is finished in Titian Red over matching red interior along with a white convertible soft top. This example received a complete restoration done to a very high caliber. The acres of brightwork shine beautifully and appear in terrific shape. The interior shows very little wear, while the paint is presented in overall great condition. Known as being the flagship of all Buick's of that era, the Skylark had distinct styling cues to set it apart from other luxury cars of its time, including the white painted inner fenders that adorns this convertible, something rarely seen in other vehicles.
Due to its rarity when compared to other Buick models, today Skylarks seem to be available much less often. Rarely seen in the first place, they are even more rare and desirable in this wonderful combination of arresting colors and excellent preparation and presentation. This example has been well cared for during its current ownership and drives as smooth as it looks. Surely a wonderful example of a Skylark as well as a terrific addition to any car collection.
All lots are sold 'as is/ where is' and Bidders must satisfy themselves as to the provenance, condition, age, completeness and originality prior to bidding. Visit the Bonhams|Cars website for all pertinent auction information.
