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1962 Buick Special Deluxe

The '62 Buick Special Deluxe: a classy, affordable slice of Americana! Think sleek lines, comfortable ride, and that classic Buick grille. It wasn't flashy, but represented solid family transportation in its era, reflecting the optimism of the early 60s. A true piece of automotive history.

1962 Buick Special Deluxe: A Classic Worth Remembering

The 1962 Buick Special Deluxe is truly a gem in the world of classic automobiles. Blending innovative engineering with timeless design, this model stands as a testament to the era it hails from—a time when American car manufacturers were redefining what it meant to drive in style. Born from Buick's compact car lineup, this vehicle was built on the Y-body platform, famed for its efficiency and aesthetic appeal.

Photo of a 1962 Buick Special Deluxe

1962 Buick Special Deluxe Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Buick Special Deluxe Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,679.00

Outstanding

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$46,100

Clean

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$29,100

Average

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$18,000*

Rough

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$9,300

1962 Buick Special Deluxe Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 2
Model Number: 4167
Length: 188.4 inches
Width: 70.9 inches
Height: 52.5 inches
Wheelbase: 112.1 inches
Weight: 2,820lbs
Type: V8, Valve-in-head, Dual downdraft, Unknown at time of publication
Displacement: 215.27 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 1/2 & 2 51/64 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 9.0 to 1
Compression Ratio Optional: 11.0 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 155@4800
Horsepower Rated: 39.2
Torque: 220@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: On block forward of right cylinder head.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Rochester
Type:
2.25 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Single plate dry disc
Clutch Size:
9.5 inches
Gear Ratios:
3
Gear Ratios First:
2.57 to 1
Gear Ratios Second:
1.55
Gear Ratios Third:
1 to 1
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
3.49
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.36 to 1
Front: Independent ball joint with coil springs
Rear: Coil springs
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 9.5 inches
Service Rear Size: 9.5 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 9.5 inches
Tire Size: 6.5 x 13
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 16 Gallons
Oil: 4 Quarts
Rear Differential: 2 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:1Ia501001 & up
Total Digits:9
Digits 1:Series
Digits 2:Model year
Digits 3:Assembly plant
Digits 4-9:Production number
All colors may not be available in all models., Cardinal Red, Arctic White, Cameo Cream, Silver Cloud Metallic, Glacier Blue, Marlin Blue Metallic, Cadet Blue Metallic, Aquamarine, Teal Mist Metallic, Surf Green, Willow Mist Metallic, Desert Sand, Fawn Mist Metallic, Camelot Rose Metallic, Burgandy Metallic, Regal Black
Convertible: Opt
Dual Path Turbine Drive Automatic Transmission: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Air Conditioning: Opt
Power Brakes: Opt
Power Steering: Opt
Radio: Opt
Heater And Defroster: Opt
Pushbutton Radio: Opt

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History of the 1962 Buick Special Deluxe

The story of the Buick Special starts before the 1960s. Introduced in 1936, the Buick Special was designed to attract buyers looking for something smaller and affordable within the Buick catalog. Over the decades, it evolved significantly, notably with the introduction of the compact Y-body platform in 1961, which ushered in a new era for Buick's offerings.

Engineered for Success

Ah, the Fireball V6 engine! This was no ordinary powertrain. Conceptualized by Joe Turlay and his team, it was a derivative of Buick's existing small V8 engine. The genius? It could be produced right alongside the V8s without skipping a beat. This engine played a crucial role in propelling Buick's reputation forward during the early '60s.

Market Popularity

You know what? The Special was a hit! It surpassed the sales charts, notably in 1955 with a whopping 737,000 units sold. Such numbers established Buick as a reliable go-to for many American families looking for a dashing, reliable ride. And though the Special eventually phased out as markets shifted towards larger models, its legacy as a compact, significant car remains unshaken.

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Famous Figures Who Own the 1962 Buick Special Deluxe

Here's where the Buick Special really spikes the interest meter—it has been associated with big names!

Al Franken

Yes, Al Franken—actor, comedian, and a bit of a car aficionado. He didn't shy away from showcasing his affection for the Buick Special Deluxe in the film "Saturday Night." Franken's association, along with his comedic collaboration with Dan Aykroyd on the infamous "Coneheads" sketch on "Saturday Night Live," adds an intriguing cultural layer to the Buick's backstory.

Performance and Specifications

The 1962 Buick Special Deluxe boasted several engine options: the responsive 155-horsepower Aluminum V-8 and the peppier 190-horsepower Skylark V-8. But if saving on gas while benefiting from considerable speed tickled your fancy, the newly introduced V-6 was the way to go.

Transmissions were customizable, too! Typical for the age—though sadly rare today—you could choose between a three-speed synchromesh transmission or upgrade to a four-speed for some extra pep.

Fun Facts about the 1962 Buick Special Deluxe

You wouldn't believe how the "Bu'Wicked" variant, with its supercharged 455 engine, broke ground performance-wise back in the day. Cars from that era weren't just about looks; they meant serious business on the roads. This version stood out in classic car circles for its mind-boggling acceleration, which was a real treat for enthusiasts.

Pop Culture Appearances

The 1962 Buick Special Deluxe left a distinct mark on pop culture. While not always explicitly named, it embodies the spirit of the American muscle cars referenced in tracks by artists like Kanye West, Johnny Cash, and Kendrick Lamar. These songs echo themes of freedom and status—themes that fit so well with the Buick's identity.

Price Records

In collector circles, the Buick Special Deluxe holds a distinct place. It has fetched prices as high as $111,000, while more modest versions go for a substantially lower chunk of change. As of the last market check, there were 28 listings, with a mix of condition, mileage, and originality affecting prices.

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For a detailed review, it's a breeze to get a classic car VIN lookup via online tools. Whether you're after a pre-1981 VIN decoder or specific checks like a 13 digit vin check or a 7 digit vin decoder, there's plenty of help available online. Knowing a car's past makes all the difference. If interested in how you can leverage this info, check out , which offers a quick pre-1981 VIN decoder service. Moreover, if you're aiming to verify a vehicle, the offers additional insights. Get the complete details with a full car build sheet. And hey, don't forget about those 13 digit vin check or 7 digit vin decoder capabilities when you're getting into the nitty-gritty.

In conclusion, the Buick Special Deluxe is more than metal and motor. It's a rolling tribute to style, innovation, and cultural richness that still turns heads—on and off the screen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The '62 Buick Special Deluxe? A real beauty! It's easy to spot, you know. Think sleek lines, a low-slung profile – kind of like a well-dressed gentleman in a sharp suit. Key features include its distinctive chrome trim, those cool 'cat-eye' taillights (everyone remembers those!), and the available V8 engine which, let me tell you, was a real powerhouse for its time. Oh, and the interior? Pure 60s elegance – think plush fabrics and lots of chrome detailing. It's a classic for a reason, no doubt about it.

Now, this is where things get interesting. You could get a punchy inline-six, perfectly adequate for everyday driving; it's like that trusty friend who's always reliable. Or, if you wanted some extra pep in your step, Buick also offered a couple of V8 options; they were real screamers! Those V8s? They were like unleashing a wild animal—pure power, but it depended on what you were looking for. The choice was yours, but the V8s were definitely more popular with people who liked to really open it up.

That's a great question! The '62 Special Deluxe held its own, believe me. It sat comfortably in the mid-size market, but what set it apart was that sweet combination of style, comfort, and – depending on the engine – performance. Compared to the competition like the Chevy Biscayne or the Ford Fairlane, the Buick often had a bit more finesse and a touch of extra luxury; it was like choosing the smoother whiskey instead of the harder stuff. I'm sure many people at the time considered that a huge benefit.

Like any classic car, you've got to be prepared for a little TLC. Common issues? Well, the electrical system can sometimes be a bit finicky – think of it as an old friend who needs a little coaxing sometimes. The carburetor might need attention, and the brakes, well, those are always something to keep an eye on. Basically, regular maintenance is key—think of it like changing the oil in your modern car, but maybe a little more involved. It’s an investment, after all. Nothing too major that a bit of patience and know-how can't fix though!

Ah, the million-dollar question! The value depends heavily on condition, options, and how well it's been maintained. A well-preserved, original example could fetch a pretty penny, though, I can tell you that. It's all about supply and demand you know? But a good rule of thumb is, condition is everything! Think of it like a house: a remodeled one is worth way more than a fixer-upper. Do your research, and find a car that's the right fit for you—and your wallet!

Finding parts for a classic can be tricky, but don't worry, you’re not alone! Plenty of online vendors specialize in classic car parts, including Buick parts. Plus, there are always local classic car clubs and forums—those guys are a treasure trove of information, I tell you what. They are really helpful, so I highly recommend you check them out!