1955 Buick Special
THE FACTORY RIDE
"It’s 1955 Buick Special Riviera Sedan (Model 43), the newest thing on the road, and a beautiful new body style that will again set the pattern for years to come. It's a thrilling new Buick, with the highest horsepower in Buick history coupled to a complete new transmission, Variable Pitch Dynaflow. The horsepower in the Special powers this Buick in a more efficient, economical, and soul-satisfying way than you have ever known in a previous model. The new Variable Pitch Dynaflow brings even more of an exciting change than new horsepower. Swift, immediate-yet silken smooth response accelerator pressure, makes you the easy master of the road over every traffic situation. These are only two of the sweeping 1955 Buick changes that set this thrilling automobile apart from everything on the road. There's a new Four Door Riviera coming soon to your Buicks Dealer’s. Visit him and take a look. Your heart will do the rest."
AGING TO PERFECTION AFTER 63 YEARS
Our factory car "Buford" has been selected for its perfect patina. Just like our Rat Rod Laboratory work stations, the finish can only be earned with time.
THE END RESULT IS WILL BE TAILORED TO IMPRESS
Featuring a 5.3L LS engine with twin turbos "Buford" is going to be outfitted to be loud, low, and fast. Check back for updated progress pics of the build.
STAGE 1: REMOVAL OF BODY FOR FRAME UPGRADES
The body of the 55 Buick has been removed to make provisions for the extensive frame upgrades that will be performed.
STAGE 2: FRONT SUSPENSION UPGRADE
In order to lay frame and improve handling, an entirely new Mustang II front cross member was fabricated in place of the original one. This new cross member will allow for easy install of the 5.3LS and addition of adjustable shockwave air springs.
STAGE 3: BOXING AND BRACING OF THE FRAME
600+ HP will twist the existing frame in every direction. Additional boxing structure over its entirety will be added to keep the frame rigid.
STAGE 4: REAR END SWAP AND BAGS UPGRADE
To handle all that power we have installed a bulletproof Ford 9" with 3.70 posi to ensure the tires will smoke for days.
STAGE 5: ADD MORE POWER WITH BOOST
600+ HP will require the addtion of (2) 66mm turbos. Starting out docile with 6lbs of boost to ensure the car is streetable.
STAGE 6: INSTRUMENTAION AND PREPARE FOR FLIGHT
A full panel of custom aviation style gauges has been retrofitted into the dash for optimum performance monitoring.
STAGE 7: VISUALIZE WITHOUT COMPROMISE
Its an amazing feeling when it turns out better than anticipated. Original on the outside but fresh on the inside.