Step back in time and explore the allure of 1950s Buicks, icons of automotive elegance that continue to captivate enthusiasts today. This decade saw Buick push the boundaries of design and engineering, producing some of the most memorable automobiles in history.
From luxurious convertibles to powerful sedans, each model tells a story of innovation and style. Here’s a closer look at 20 of these iconic Buicks that still turn heads today, combining beauty, performance, and a touch of nostalgia. Join us on this journey through a golden era of American car manufacturing.
1. 1950 Buick Roadmaster Riviera
The 1950 Buick Roadmaster Riviera stands as a luxury icon of its time, turning heads with its sweeping lines and signature “toothy” grille. This model was synonymous with elegance and power, offering a driving experience that was both smooth and robust. Whether cruising down the boulevard or parked in a driveway, its presence was undeniable. Step inside, and the interior spoke of sophistication with plush seating and advanced features for its day. It’s no wonder this Buick remains a favorite among classic car enthusiasts. The Roadmaster Riviera truly encapsulated the spirit of 1950s luxury.
2. 1950 Buick Super Convertible
Embrace the open road with the 1950 Buick Super Convertible, a stylish drop-top that offered freedom under the sun. Its smooth Dynaflow transmission allowed for effortless driving, making it a top choice for those who valued both style and performance. The red exterior shimmered in the sunlight, capturing the essence of leisurely drives along the coast. Inside, comfort was paramount, with seating that invited relaxation. This convertible was more than just a car; it was a statement of elegance and adventure, embodying the carefree spirit of driving during the golden era.
3. 1951 Buick Special Deluxe
In 1951, the Buick Special Deluxe emerged as an affordable yet elegant option for car lovers. Its green body and chrome accents caught the eye as it gracefully cruised through city streets. Despite being accessible, it didn’t skimp on performance or style, making it a popular choice for families and individuals alike. Inside, it offered a comfortable ride with modern features of its time. The Special Deluxe was a testament to Buick’s ability to blend affordability with luxury, providing a memorable driving experience. It remains a cherished classic among collectors.
4. 1952 Buick Roadmaster Sedan
The 1952 Buick Roadmaster Sedan is a big, bold beauty that epitomized the grandeur of early 50s automotive design. Its blue exterior and expansive chrome details stood out, especially when parked in front of a vintage diner. Inside, the Roadmaster offered a spacious and plush interior, designed for comfort and class. The powerful engine provided a smooth and commanding drive, enhancing its appeal. This sedan’s design and performance made it a favorite for those seeking both luxury and practicality. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate car enthusiasts.
5. 1953 Buick Skylark
The 1953 Buick Skylark was a limited-edition convertible that marked Buick’s 50th anniversary, an elegant tribute to a milestone. Its white exterior with a striking red interior captured the celebration’s spirit, making it a collector’s dream. The Skylark combined stunning design with high-end materials, ensuring a ride that was both luxurious and memorable. On the road, it turned heads with its unique look and smooth performance. This model represented innovation and style, a true icon of the 1950s. The Skylark remains a symbol of elegance and automotive excellence.
6. 1953 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon
In the realm of classic station wagons, the 1953 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon stands out as a rare and upscale choice. Its woodgrain styling and elegant design made it a unique entry in Buick’s lineup. Parked in a suburban driveway, its charm was undeniable, offering both utility and luxury. Inside, passengers enjoyed a spacious and comfortable ride, complemented by premium materials. This wagon was more than just a family car; it was a statement of style and sophistication. Collectors highly prize this model for its rarity and distinctive character.
7. 1954 Buick Century Riviera
The 1954 Buick Century Riviera was a sleek two-door hardtop that exuded sporty flair and sophistication. Its red and white color scheme was bold, capturing attention wherever it went. The Century Riviera was known for its powerful V8 engine, offering an exhilarating driving experience without compromising on style. Inside, the attention to detail was evident, with luxurious finishes and comfortable seating. This model was a favorite among those who valued performance and elegance, making it a cherished classic. The Century Riviera continues to inspire admiration for its design and legacy.
8. 1954 Buick Special Sedan
Known for its iconic portholes and spacious design, the 1954 Buick Special Sedan was a standout in its era. Its light blue color and streamlined body made it a vision of elegance as it drove through the countryside. Inside, the emphasis was on comfort, offering ample room for passengers and a smooth ride. The Special Sedan was accessible yet stylish, appealing to a broad audience. Its combination of practicality and beauty made it a beloved choice among Buick fans. Today, it remains a symbol of classic automotive design and innovation.
9. 1955 Buick Century Convertible
The 1955 Buick Century Convertible quickly became a favorite among hot-rodders and classic car lovers for its dynamic performance and striking design. Its black exterior was polished to perfection, making it a standout at any car show. This convertible offered an exhilarating open-air experience, matched with the power of its robust engine. Inside, the attention to craftsmanship was evident, with luxurious materials and comfortable seating. The Century Convertible was more than just a car; it was a symbol of freedom and style, leaving a lasting impression on all who saw it.
10. 1955 Buick Super Riviera
With a reputation for combining luxury and speed, the 1955 Buick Super Riviera captured the hearts of many car enthusiasts. Its metallic blue paint sparkled under the sun, especially when cruising on the open highway. Inside, the cabin was a haven of elegance, offering plush seating and advanced features for its time. The Super Riviera’s performance was equally impressive, with a powerful engine that delivered a thrilling drive. This model represented the best of both worlds, appealing to those who sought comfort without sacrificing excitement. It remains an iconic classic.
11. 1956 Buick Roadmaster 75
The 1956 Buick Roadmaster 75 was a longer, more opulent version of the classic Roadmaster, designed to impress. Its two-tone paint and gleaming chrome accents made it a sight to behold, especially when parked in front of a grand hotel. Inside, luxury was paramount, with roomy seating and fine details that emphasized comfort and style. The Roadmaster 75’s powerful engine ensured that its performance matched its elegant appearance. This model was a testament to Buick’s commitment to excellence, offering a driving experience that was both regal and dynamic.
12. 1956 Buick Special Riviera Coupe
Showcasing Buick’s dramatic new styling direction, the 1956 Buick Special Riviera Coupe was a bold statement on wheels. Its vibrant red color with chrome accents turned heads as it parked on city streets, embodying the era’s sense of innovation and flair. Inside, the design was equally striking, with attention to detail that highlighted comfort and aesthetics. The Riviera Coupe was not just about looks; its robust engine offered a thrilling drive that appealed to enthusiasts. This model remains celebrated for its unique design and spirited performance, capturing the essence of the 1950s.
13. 1957 Buick Roadmaster 75 Riviera
The 1957 Buick Roadmaster 75 Riviera was a car that left a lasting impression with its flashy fins and powerful V8 engine. Its green paint and expansive chrome details made it a showstopper when parked in a vintage garage. Inside, luxury and comfort were evident, with spacious seating and high-quality materials. The Roadmaster 75 Riviera was more than just a mode of transport; it was a statement of style and power. This model is still admired for its bold design and dynamic performance, representing the pinnacle of 1950s automotive innovation.
14. 1957 Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon
The 1957 Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon was a stylish and high-performance option within the station wagon category. Its black exterior with wood accents exuded sophistication, especially when parked at a family picnic. Inside, the Caballero offered ample space and comfort, making it ideal for family outings. Its powerful engine delivered a smooth ride, while its distinctive styling set it apart from other wagons. This model remains a favorite among collectors who appreciate its unique blend of utility and elegance. The Caballero is an enduring symbol of 1950s family adventures.
15. 1958 Buick Limited Riviera Sedan
Buick’s most luxurious offering of the late 50s, the 1958 Buick Limited Riviera Sedan, was a masterpiece of design and elegance. Its black color and dramatic chrome accents commanded attention as it drove down the boulevard. Inside, the emphasis was on opulence, with sumptuous materials and sophisticated features that made every journey a pleasure. The Limited Riviera’s powerful engine ensured that its performance matched its regal appearance. This model exemplified the height of 1950s luxury, appealing to those who desired the best in automotive design and comfort.
16. 1958 Buick Special Convertible
With sweeping tailfins and jet-age aesthetics, the 1958 Buick Special Convertible captured the imagination of car enthusiasts. Its silhouette was striking, especially when parked by the beach at sunset, evoking a sense of adventure and style. Inside, the cabin was a blend of comfort and elegance, offering an inviting space for drivers and passengers alike. The Special Convertible’s performance was as impressive as its looks, with a robust engine providing a thrilling ride. This model remains a cherished classic, symbolizing the forward-thinking design of the 1950s.
17. 1958 Buick Century Riviera
The 1958 Buick Century Riviera stands out with one of the era’s most over-the-top designs, capturing the bold spirit of the 50s. Its red and white color combination turned heads, especially when parked at a classic diner. Inside, the emphasis was on style and luxury, with a cabin designed for comfort and sophistication. The Century Riviera’s powerful engine added to its allure, providing a dynamic driving experience. This model remains a beloved classic, celebrated for its distinctive design and spirited performance, echoing the exuberance of its time.
18. 1959 Buick Electra 225
Nicknamed “Deuce and a Quarter,” the 1959 Buick Electra 225 ushered in a new era with its futuristic design and advanced features. Its silver paint gleamed as it cruised on the highway, a testament to Buick’s innovative spirit. Inside, the Electra 225 offered space-age comfort, with plush seating and cutting-edge technology for its time. This model was more than just a car; it was a vision of the future, appealing to those who embraced progress and style. It remains an iconic vehicle, admired for its bold design and forward-thinking engineering.
19. 1959 Buick LeSabre Convertible
The 1959 Buick LeSabre Convertible was a vision of the future with its futuristic design and sculpted body lines. It was a sight to behold when parked in an urban setting, capturing the attention of passersby. Inside, the LeSabre offered comfort and innovation, with features that were ahead of its time. Its powerful engine ensured a thrilling drive, making it a favorite among those who valued both style and performance. This model is still celebrated for its forward-looking design and exceptional craftsmanship, a testament to Buick’s legacy of innovation.
20. 1959 Buick Invicta Hardtop Coupe
The 1959 Buick Invicta Hardtop Coupe is celebrated for its bold design and space-age styling that captured the imagination of many. Its blue color and unique body lines made it a standout when parked at a retro diner. Inside, the Invicta offered a blend of comfort and modernity, with features that emphasized both luxury and performance. The powerful engine ensured a dynamic driving experience, appealing to those who desired both elegance and excitement. This model remains an iconic classic, admired for its daring design and innovative spirit.