1955 Buick Other

Coupe

322c.i. 4bbl V8

Automatic

6B2039594

Clear

Gasoline

1955 Buick Century 2 Door Hardtop Rare '55 Buick Century "Banker's Hotrod" Show Level Frame Off "Nut & Bolt" Restoration Just Completed (14 Miles!) by Premier S.F. Bay Area Restorer ____________________________________ NOTE: Our listings sometimes get rather lengthy. However, we continually hear from out of state / out of country buyers (many of our clients) that they prefer the level of detail that we provide. However, if you are not prepared to read multiple pages of description, we ask that you review the "Specifications" on the car along with viewing the photos. Also, if you would rather discuss the Buick, please call us at 925-846-1451 and we'll gladly answer any questions over the telephone, including those pertaining to our Buy it Now policies. Yes, the Buick can be purchased prior to the end of the eBay auction and we reserve the right to stop the auction should the car sell prior to the scheduled end of the eBay auction. Again, please give us a call for details. ALSO, PLEASE NOTE: EACH TIME WE LIST A VEHICLE ON EBAY WE RECEIVE COMMENTS THAT THERE ARE NO PHOTOS OF THE INTERIOR, ENGINE, UNDERCARRIAGE, ETC. OF THE CAR. THERE ARE 100~ PHOTOS OF ALL AREAS OF THE CAR SHOWN ON eBay BUT, WHEN YOU REACH WHAT APPEARS TO BE THE LAST PHOTO, YOU WILL NEED TO SCROLL TO VIEW THE REMAINING PHOTOS. IF YOU ARE STILL UNABLE TO SEE THE PHOTOS, PLEASE CALL US AND WE WILL PROVIDE A LINK FOR THE PHOTOS (IT IS A VIOLATION OF EBAY POLICY TO LIST THE URL ON THE EBAY LISTING). ALSO, FOR THIS SPECIAL VEHICLE, WE HAVE CREATED A SEPARATE LISTING ON OUR WEBSITE WITH ANOTHER 50+ PHOTOS OF THE CARS "BEFORE" PHOTOS AND DETAILED RESTORATION PHOTOGRAPHS. All of our photos are taken in natural light and we do not "Photo-Shop" or touch-up the photos in any way. The cosmetic quality of this 1955 Century (both inside & out) is exceptional and the photos accurately reflect the condition of this spectacular & desirable 60's Classic Car. The "madness" is underway in the various auction venues around the country. We often times see a wide range of collectible cars / special interest cars sell for inflated amounts in the "heat of the moment." This car is offered at a VERY realistic price and, unlike bidding on cars in an auction environment, you will have the benefit of extensive information & history on the car prior to making a buying decision. Equally as important is the fact that Classic Cars Ltd. has been in business for close to 20 years and we enjoy an excellent national / international relationship with 675~ positive eBay feedback items. We will also be glad to provide the URL's containing comments left by customers who have had dealings with Classic Cars Ltd. THANK YOU! CLASSIC CARS LTD. 925-846-1451 OVERVIEW OF THE BUICK CENTURY Buick Century is the model name used by the Buick division of General Motors for a line of full-size performance vehicles from 1936 to 1942 and 1954 to 1958, and again from 1973 to 2005 for a mid-size car. The model name Century came about when Buick was designing its first production automobile capable of reaching a speed of 100 mph. The division needed to come up with a name. One of the Buick executives had returned from a recent trip to the British Isles and told the other executives that the British referred to going 100 mph as "doing the century". The executives liked the Century name and it stuck. In 1954, Buick reintroduced the Century using the same formula of mating the smaller, lighter Buick Special body to its largest and most powerful 322 cubic inch V8 engine with the intent of giving Buick a performance vehicle. In 1955, the California Highway Patrol placed a large fleet order for Century 2-door sedans, a body style unavailable to the general public. It combined the Special 2-door sedan body shell with Century power-train and trim. Broderick Crawford was shown driving a 2-door Century sedan during the first season of his popular syndicated TV series "Highway Patrol". (In later seasons he'd drive a four-door Century, like his real life counterparts in the California Highway Patrol.) The Century remained Buick's performance line, with engine power rising from 200 (SAE gross) in 1954, to 236 in 1955, to 255 in 1956, and topping out at 300 from a bored-out 364 cu in (6.0 L) engine in 1957-58, the last model years for the full sized Century line. In 1956 the Century's base price was $2,963. SPECIFICATIONS Model Designation: Century V8 - Wheel base: Century V8: 122" - Valve Location: In head - Bore and Stroke: 4.000 x 3.2 - Piston displacement, Cubic Inches: 322c.i. - Compression ratio: Century V8: 9.0:1 Compression - Maximum Brake Horsepower: Century V8: 236 HP @ 4600 RPM - Note: 4 holes on fender = 4bbl with higher horsepower "3 Hole Cars" had the lower horsepower engines. - Normal Oil Pressure Pounds: 35 THIS PARTIUCLAR 1955 BUICK CENTURY Over the years, we have seen a wide range of totally restored American cars including the "Tri-Five" Chevrolet's, Corvette's, Cadillac's, Oldsmobile's, and even rare examples of Packard's and Pierce Arrow's. Of course, we have owned and represented too many Muscle Cars and high performance cars too count. However, this is the first mid-1950's Buick Century that we have had the pleasure of presenting. Over the years, we have sold several 1950's - 1960's cars that have been restored by a premier Pleasanton auto restoration company, Advanced Auto Restoration & Detail. The owner not only has more years of experience in the restoration of classic and collectible vehicles than he cares to admit (with a focus on Post-War American cars) but, in his early days, actually worked at General Motors in the S.F. Bay area. The combination of restoration and factory experience makes him extremely knowledgeable and qualified to tackle "Body Off" restorations. With a presence in Pleasanton for over 20 years Advanced Auto is not a restorer who does strictly cosmetic restorations for quick "flip" at auctions but, instead, concentrates on one car at a time taking great car to ensure that the finished product meets his high standards. We do not see "Pigs with Lipstick" but only the finest "Nut & Bolt" "Frame Off" restorations that take considerable time to complete. This car is no exception but may well represent the best that we have seen from Advanced Auto. The Buick was brought to Advanced Auto Restoration & Detail by its owner who purchased the car many years ago from its second Bay area owner. While the car currently carries more currently California license plates (the California Department of Motor Vehicles insisted they be turned in when the owner had the car re-registered after a long period of being inoperative during the restoration) the photos reflect that it had California "Black Plates." As experienced buyer's are aware, the presence of California "black Plates" indicates the cars history in the state of California dating back to the 1960's and probably beyond when the original yellow plates would have been turned in for the 1963 black & yellow plates. The photos (shown on the second listing on our Website as "Detailed Photos) reflect the car in its totally un-restored condition when it was brought in for restoration. As can be seen in the photos, there is no doubt that the car needed total and complete restoration. However, what is also clear is that the car was the perfect choice for a restoration based on it being 100% original, complete, straight and rust free. Of course, the entire interior, engine bay, trunk, chassis and exterior would be the subject of a comprehensive but the parts were there and virtually all of the cars components (with the exception of "soft" items i.e. interior) were used to restore the car by being replated or refurbished. In the few instances where parts were missing or badly deteriorated, as a result of the restorer's contacts, NOS (New Old Stock) parts were located. As aficionados are aware, unlike other cars inexpensive aftermarket parts are almost impossible to find for the Buick Century so the car was built with quality original GM components. Having been delivered new in the San Francisco Bay area (the "South Bay"), when the restoration began, the car had the following: - A totally straight, damage free body & frame - Virtually 100% original components - Front & rear California black & yellow license plates - Original rear license plate frame reading "Mt View" (A town 30 miles outside of San Francisco) - Complete dash ("Before" photos show the radio out of the car but it was in the trunk and now is restored and fully functional! In addition to this Buick being an absolutely incredibly restored example (more on that later) the Buick includes the following: - Complete, extensive and high quality mechanical & cosmetic restoration - Factory numbers matching 322c.i. V8 engine / 4BBL / 9.0:1 Compression (Rebuilt within 50 miles, bench tested and run in) - Fully automatic and totally rebuilt transmission (original to the Buick) - Power Steering - Power Brakes - Factory style seat belts to match the 100% new interior - Factory AM Push Button Radio (Totally rebuilt and functional) - Front factory style speaker - New period style Coker "Wide White Walls" - Absolutely Striking period (Off of a rare "high end" 1953/1954 Buick Skylark) - Original wheel (Bead blasted and powder-coated) & wide whitewall tires included) - Original factory hubcaps (5) included Note: The car runs and drives better than new (as a result of current / improved tires) DECODING THE TAG & VIN NUMBER FENDER TAG STYLE: 4637 = Century 66R BODY#: = 7426 TRIM: = 463 Green PAINT: BWW B= Upper (top) = Dove White Middle: W = Spruce Green Lower = W = Spruce Green Top = N/A (Convertible Only) VIN # 6 B 2 039594 6 = Century Model B = 1955 Model Year 2 = Manufactured in Southgate, CA 039594 = (Last six digits) = Production Run # THE RESTORATION EFFORT / ADDITIONAL DETAILS The in-depth restoration began several years ago and was completed within the past month. The Buicks restoration represents the culmination of an unbelievable time commitment of approximately 2,000 man hours. The odometer (set to zero upon the cars completion) now shows 14 miles. The car is totally completed and falls into the category of a "No Excuses" car. We should mention that our previous sale of vehicles restored by Advanced Auto Restoration & Detail (including a gorgeous 1957 Cadillac convertible, 1961 Corvette Fuelie, 1964 mobile, Ford Bronco and others) has resulted in comments from the buyers including statements like "The car exceeded my expectations in every respect..I had no idea it would be THIS nice" and "Unbelievable, this guy is exceptionally talented.highly recommend"!!! The restoration of this original California Survivor was completed with the car disassembled and every part marked, bagged and sorted. Virtually every part was touched and a decision was made whether to replace, replace, or refurbish the component. It is important to note that the objective with this particular car was to create a Buick Century that was better than it was when the car rolled off the production floor in Southgate, CA in 1955. Simply stated, the goal was achieved. Specifically, all of the high quality (remember the parts were produced in the 50's when American car manufacturer's ruled!!) quality chrome, aluminum and other exterior trim parts received quality re-plating, professional straightening and polishing. This restoration facility records literally all of their work in the old fashioned way; a hand written log was maintained to track the cars progress (and extensive hours spent!) in great detail. While there are multiple pages and examples, one of the many pages of summaries reads as follows: 12:15pm "Jack up car, remove drive-shaft, disconnect L&R rear mounts, shift linkage, r/h exhaust pipe, front mount, starter wires, drained trans, pulled engine & trans. removed starter & L & R exhaust manifold." 3.0 hrs. The summaries document literally every part of the restoration in this fashion. The detailed logs can be seen in the photographs along with the binder of "before" photos of the Buick. While the file is entirely too thick (2+ inches) and contains too much information to detail in this listing, we will be glad to go over any specifics with prospective buyers. We can tell you that one receipt alone is for $19,535.74 (this is nowhere near the total of an estimated $40,000 invested in the car). Finally, as the photographs reflect, the Buick was gone through from top to bottom with work completed exclusively by a professional, experience restorer. CONDITION SUMMARY 1955 BUICK CENTURY EXTERIOR PAINT / BODY / TOP - Exceptionally high quality re-paint using Glasurite German paint - Finished in a fantastic color scheme / combination - Excellent panel Gaps, trunk & hood fit - Trim and every component of the car removed, replaced and / or replated - Car began with excellent original "California Quality" exterior Trim - Factory original side view mirror - Beautiful chrome & stainless exterior trim - Beautiful chrome bumpers and exceptionally high quality exterior plating - Correct interior & exterior emblems - All glass replaced with new - Functional locks including trunk - Original Keys (2 Sets) INTERIOR - Rare "Short Body" Century model - Just completed custom interior (Complete including seats, door panels, carpet, headliner and all other interior parts) - Like new dash & gauges (refer to photos) - Functional heat / defrost & fan (under seat) - Factory steering wheel - Factory installed and functional AM Push Button Radio - Front factory style speaker - All new carpet & Carpeted Mats - Totally new glove box - Perfect headliner & visors (Striking correct white) - Seat belts (Replaced with updated period style / coordinated in color) MISCELLANEOUS - Currently licensed & registered in California until August, 2013 - Passed required California safety inspection (proper lights, turn signals, etc) with no findings - No smog required in California (vehicles 1975 and older are exempt) MORE CONDITION INFORMATION The Buick Century is in absolutely beautiful condition both inside and out and runs and drives exceptionally well. The Buick has been driven just a few miles since the restoration. However, considerable time (and money) has been spent to address even the smallest issues in sorting the car to be certain that the car is reliable and trouble free. The Century needs absolutely nothing to be used and enjoyed and is in the totally "turn-key" category. Mechanically, the Century runs and drives perfectly. The engine is very smooth, starts immediately whether hot or cold and is free from any signs of overheating, even in California's warm temperatures. The transmission shifts very smoothly and there are absolutely no issues with overheating. While unusual with some of the 1950's / 1960's cars, the Century's systems are all functional. This includes the entire electrical system (turn signals, high and low beam lights, dash lights, etc) along with the clock, heater (and fan) wipers and factory original AM push button radio. . An independent inspection of the cars other mechanical systems (within the past 30 days) found the brakes (completely re-done) to be excellent and stop the car straight and sure. The underside of the Buick is dry and leak free and shows better than new. The power steering is excellent and the brakes stop the car straight and sure. The car has a wonderful dual exhaust system that emits a pleasing note that is indicative of the cars performance capabilities but not at all offensively or overly loud. Period style bullet exhausts have been added to enhance the sound of the car. As the photographs of the underside reveal, the underside of the car is clean and free from damage, rust and any signs of previous repair of accidents. We encourage a review of the photos as the old adage "A photo is worth a thousand words" clearly applies in this instance! The car is licensed and registered in California and, of course, has a free and clear California title. COSMETIC CONDITION When it comes to the cosmetic condition of the Buick Century, the car is in absolutely gorgeous condition and would be rated a solid "#1" even by the most critical inspection. The body, paint and exterior trim are excellent in every respect. It is apparent that considerable time (and expense) was spent on the paint work resulting in a finish that is as smooth as glass. Additionally, the panel fit is excellent with solid closing doors, trunk hood. The exterior trim including the bumpers, stainless and lenses are also in fantastic condition and free from flaws / damage. The quality of the work is exceptionally high and the Buick represents a rare model that would be well received at any classic cars show. The trunk and engine bay are spotless and consistent with the condition of the car's exterior and interior quality. It is apparent that no short cuts were taken in the building / restoration of this rare automobile. The interior is in its stock configuration including the factory bucket seats, console and working tachometer mounted toward the front of the console. The interior is beautifully appointed in typical Buick style of the 1950's - 1960's. Often time it is the small things that separate a truly original / restored example for a car that has been poorly cared for or just "restored" to be sold. This car was restored for it owner to retain and was done right. In our opinion he made excellent choices as to what to retain versus parts to retain in order to achieve the perfect balance of originality and restored beauty. We ask that you review the photographs very carefully. This car has VERY high quality paint, body work and interior improvements that were completed using a "Cost no object" philosophy. When it comes to the interior we ask that you consider its originality including: - Functional door and interior lights - Working Clock! - Working original AM push button radio - Original steering wheel and working horn - Seat belts are chrome clasp / updated & color coordinate with the new interior - Incredible attention to detail on the dash and other interior items (refer to photos) We often times receive questions that go something like: "Does the car really look as good as it does in the photographs"? The answer in this case is NO. The Buick actually looks better in "person." Perhaps most important, this is an opportunity to own a piece of classic car history that has everything collectors look for; rarity, performance, good looks and beautiful condition... at a price representing a fraction of the restoration investment. This car is a perfect show car for the upcoming season and would also make a perfect collectible VERY high end "Driver" that will attract attention in virtually every venue. If you're not prepared to be noticed, this may not be the car for you. Due to the uniqueness of this car and the extensive list of build details we encourage that serious, prospective buyers contact us at 925-846-1451 to discuss the Buick Century. We also encourage inspections and would welcome the opportunity to meet you and show you this rare and unusual Buick. MISCELLANEOUS GENERAL INFORMATION - We have been shipping vehicles for years and have established excellent contacts that are not only high quality but very price competitive. We do not use brokers, terminal shipping or other discount methods. Call us or email for a quote directly to your home or office. We are often able to obtain quality enclosed transportation (the kind of travel this car deserves) for the cost of open shipping. - As with virtually all collector/specialty vehicles, we find that parts and resources are readily available for this (and most every vehicle), thanks in large part to the Internet! - In addition to the purchase price of the vehicle, California buyers will be subject to sales tax, documentation fee, DMV transfer fees and license/registration. Out-of-state buyers will be responsible for the purchase price of the vehicle and any local taxes/fees will be the purchaser's responsibility to pay in their respective state. IMPORTANT NOTE: if the vehicle is delivered or driven in California and driven on California roads, sales-tax, license registration and transfer fees will be assessed per California law. - While we encourage telephone calls to discuss this vehicle in greater detail we will not respond to inquiries asking "What is the reserve". Also, if you would prefer that we call you to answer any questions about the vehicle; shipping alternatives, etc. please e-mail us with your telephone number and will gladly get back in touch with you. - As with any collectible vehicle of this vintage we are unable to provide a warranty or guarantee of condition. However, we make every effort to accurately represent our vehicles, and highlight both positive items as well as areas that require attention. We ask that prospective buyers consider our eBay history/feedback, standing in the community, length of time in business, and other factors when purchasing a collectible vehicle from Classic Cars Ltd. - Please keep in mind that minor cosmetic issues/flaws may be present on every vehicle (regardless of cost) including small chips, nicks, scratches, etc. that can be seen on even the best restoration. Also, ownership of a collectible / specialty vehicle is more enjoyable if the owner is familiar with the "realities" of these unique cars. Unlike more modern day vehicles, these cars require regular, ongoing care/maintenance and some mechanical knowledge, patience, and understanding can make the experience considerably more pleasant. That said, collector / "specialty" car owners will tell you (emphatically) that they love their cars and wouldn't trade them for anything!! - The information contained in this description is believed to be accurate but, in some instances, has been provided by the car's owner / owners or outside sources. As a result, we are unable to guarantee the accuracy of the information. We encourage verification of "numbers" and significant data prior to the purchase of any collector vehicle that you are considering. PURCHASING A COLLECTOR VEHICLE - THINGS TO CONSIDER As always, we recommend that you carefully review the seller's background of any collector car being sold over the Internet. We believe that it is important to ask yourself a number of questions including, but not limited to: - How long have they been in business? - How much experience do they have with collector cars? - How many positive collector car vehicle sales have completed (positive eBay feedback)? - How detailed/complete is the description of the vehicle? - Do the photos show details of the interior, exterior, top, chrome, etc. or are they simply "Glamour Shots" taken from a distance? - Does the seller have a Surety Bond to protect the financial transaction? - What about insurance, licensing by the state, and a local business license? - Does the seller (if a business) have any DMV (Motor Vehicle) complaints and/or other history of legal action, grievances? - Does the seller enjoy a favorable local and national/international reputation? - Can the seller assist with funding sources, transport and out of state/country sales? ABOUT CLASSIC CARS LTD. * Classic Cars Ltd. has been in the same, small, California town for close to 20 years. We operate a small "brick & mortar", indoor showroom, and specialize in the sale, consignment, and purchase of sports, high performance and specialty vehicles of all types. We have a particular interest in sports cars and unique vehicles. * The majority of our vehicles come from local, private owners and collectors, and many were sold new in California. We appreciate that rust free cars, with excellent documentation and history are especially attractive to our buyers both locally, and around the country. As a result, we do not purchase our collectible cars from "distressed" sales, such as wholesale auctions, salvage sales, or lien sales. We do not sell vehicles with salvage titles, or those that have a history of significant accident damage or repair. * Please review our feedback on eBay (user name Never22Many) representing over 675+ positive transactions to buyers all over the United States / World. * We are fully insured, bonded, and licensed for collector car sales all over the United States/World. * Classic Cars Ltd. carries a $50,000 Surety bond to cover financial transactions * We enjoy excellent relationships with a number of transport companies and, as a result, can often times obtain preferred pricing for vehicle shipping. Please give us a call and we will be glad to refer you to suitable transport companies. Needless to say, we would recommend a quality, enclosed transporter that is experience with moving high quality, collectible cars. * We frequently sell vehicles to out of State / out of country buyers, and will be glad to provide references for buyers in your area. Thank you, Classic Cars Ltd. 925-846-1451 MyStoreMaps improve local and international eBay sales. Specifications: Body Type / Style:Coupe Exterior Color:Metallic Aqua / White Interior Color:Green & White Engine:V8 Transmission: Automatic Mileage:14 Drive:Rear Doors:2 Refer to Other Listing For More Detail Terms & Conditions Buyers outside of California will be responsible for a $195.00 fee for processing/administration. The charge will apply if the vehicle is purchased through ebay or before or after the auction, directly through Classic Cars Ltd. The vehicle is listed for sale elsewhere. We reserve the right to end the auction at anytime. We will be glad to discuss details of a "pre-auction" purchase (925) 846 1451. Inspections of vehicles are encouraged but (by appointment only) must be completed within 24 hours of the end of the auction. Out of state buyers are responsible for the high bid and any shipping costs. California buyers are subject to the appropriate sales tax, DMV transfer, and fees associated with the purchase of any used vehicle sale in the state of California. We mail, via Priority Mail, transferable documents within 48 hours of the transfer of funds to out of State buyers. While shipping and transportation costs (if appropriate) are the responsibility of the winning bidder, we can assist with locating a suitable transporter. We regularly ship cars all over the USA/World, and can often times locate very competitive rates for transporting vehicles door to door, to a local terminal, enclosed, open, etc. Please call us for specific information/rates to your location. We meet some great people and fellow enthusiasts, and only rarely do we have problems with non-paying bidders. Please be certain that you are prepared to buy the car if you bid, or call us at 925-846-1451 before the end of the auction if we can answer any questions. If you have a "sunglass" rating or fewer than 10 feedback ratings on eBay, please call us before you bid so that we can discuss the bidding process, etc. If we do not hear from you, we reserve the right to delete your bid. Thank You & Happy Bidding Classic Cars Ltd.