For 1939 Buick engineers were aiming for better aerodynamics, not necessarily new styling. This was a big year as it stepped forward in both styling and fashion; most notable may have been the new two-piece waterfall grille with delicate vertical bars and a substantial increase in window area, improving visibility for greater safety. Changes were brought to the interior with all prominent gauges being positioned in front of the driver except for the clock on the glovebox door. A “Handi-Shift” column-mounted gear change lever was also a key interior upgrade. Turn signals are mounted on the shifter stalk.

The Buick Series 40 cars were also known as the Special and this car represents the (by far) lowest production body style of the Special line. Between the six different body designs of the Special line there were a total of 166,349 cars produced. The Series 41C Sport Phaeton, like this offering, was built for just 724 fortunate clients; quite uncommon by the most stringent of standards. It is readily identified by its distinctive trunk-back design.

The Sport Phaeton is powered by Buick’s strong and smooth running Dynaflash straight eight-cylinder engine which is connected to a three-speed manual transmission. Looking regal in gorgeously applied Black with a leather burgundy interior, the tan cloth soft-top is in excellent condition with a glass rear window. The carpet is new, as is the floor mat in the front. The Buick has a “newer” wiring harness and the chrome and brightwork are also beautifully presented.

In the possession of a longtime Buick collector, this Sport Phaeton has a rich past of show success that dates to 1983 according to the information we received. In that year it earned an AACA National First Prize – Senior. Forward nearly 30-years later and the accolades continued with a Gold Senior Award in 2012 at The Buick Show in North Carolina. In 2013 the AACA awarded the car a Grand National First Prize. In August 2014, it was on display at the Milwaukee Masterpiece Car Show in Wisconsin and garnered the Auto Chic Award which is a combination of vehicle presentation, owner’s period-correct apparel and accompanied by a verbal presentation of that era.

This is a great car to take out on the road and experience its comfort, convenience and spaciousness in a package that exudes good taste.