The 1958 model year is remembered by enthusiasts as the apex of automotive excess: the largest-ever cars with the most lavish trim. Few were more chrome-covered than the 1958 Buick Limited, a new series that brought back the famous Limited name, once used to denote Buick’s largest, grandest, and most expensive models.

True to that heritage, the 1958 Limited was the top of the line, carrying the same dynamic “Fashion Air Dynastar” styling as other Flint products of the year, including a remarkable grille composed of 160 faceted chrome squares, but with more brightwork on a longer 127.5-inch-wheelbase chassis, for a total span from nose to nose of over 227 inches! Distinctive to the Limited were the “hash marks” along the rear fenders, as well as a more sumptuous interior and two-speed Flight Pitch Dynaflow transmission, featuring three turbines and a variable-pitch stator. Detroit was caught unawares by 1958’s flash recession, and sales of its glittering dreamboats were hit hard across the line—few more so than the Limited, which proved to be worthy of that name in more ways than one

The rarest Buick sold in the United States that year was the Limited Convertible, of which only 839 were built in what would be both the first and last season for the model.

The Limited Convertible offered here, one of fewer than 20 extant, was acquired by the current owner from a prominent Midwestern collection, in which it had resided for 25 years – an indication of the esteem in which it was held by its owner. It is believed to have been shown at a major competition only once, the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance in 1990, with its other appearances having been at small local shows in the Detroit area, as well as in the pages of Rex Roy’s book, Motor City Dream Garages.

The car is finished in its original color combination of Warwick Blue with a two-tone leather interior and white power top. It appears to have been restored some years ago but has been well maintained since. Its lacquer paint has a nice patina, as does the interior, and both resemble well-maintained original finishes; the chrome has held up well throughout, and much of it may well be original. Equipment includes the standard automatic transmission, a dual-range heater, Wonderbar radio, power windows, dual spotlights, and chrome fender skirts.

This handsome Buick is the ultimate showboat from the last days of when chrome was king!