1953 Buick models: Buick celebrates 50 years of automotive excellence (part 2)
"Then-Now-Tomorrow - When better automobiles are built, Buick will build them." This is part 2 of a look at the 1953 Buick models.
Super specs
The engine used on the Super models was a Buick valve-in-head, 322-cubic-inch V-8 engine with a bore and stroke of 4.0 by 3.2 inches. It could produce 170 horsepower with Dynaflow Drive. The fuel system used was the same as that for the Roadmaster. Its cooling system was a thermostat and by-pass temperature. With a conventional transmission, water capacity was 16 1/2 quarts or 18 quarts with the heater. With Dynaflow Drive, water capacity was 18 quarts or 19 1/2 quarts with the heater. Dynaflow Drive was optional at extra cost.
The Super had a sheet metal spring, single dry-plate clutch. Its facing area was 106.8 square inches. The transmission was an all-silent Synchro-Mesh transmission with helical gears. The Super had a torque-tube drive, semi-floating rear axle and a universal joint that was automatically lubricated from the transmission. The car's steering, suspension, frame, electrical work, brakes and shock absorbers were all the same as the Roadmaster. The wheelbase for Model 52 was 125 1/2.
1953 Buick Special
For a budget-priced car, the Buick Special wasn't lacking in beauty, comfort or performance. The models that were available were the 45R Special, which was a two-door, six-passenger Riviera built on a 121.5-inche wheelbase, and the 48D Special, a two-door, six-passenger Tourback Sedan built on a 121.5-inch wheelbase. There was also the 41D Special, a four-door Tourback Sedan.
The Special opened a new level of luxury for budget-priced cars of that day. It offered plenty of space with wider front seats, new trim and upholstery, and an elegant finish and fittings similar to that of any fine automobile. It had deep, soft, wide seats with the rear seats having new zigzag-like springs. Two-door models featured tilt-away front seats for easy exiting and entrance. The fenders and deck were raised to provide more space for luggage or storage. The trunk had a capacity of 537 cubic inches. It was also a quiet car, engineered for the smoothest driving and riding.
Special specs
The engine for the Special was a 263.3-cubic-inch, straight-eight engine with a bore and stroke of 3 3/16 by 4 1/8 inches. It too used full-pressure lubrication with an oil capacity of 5 1/2 quarts. Horsepower was rated at 125 with Synchro-Mesh or 130 with Dynaflow Drive. The fuel system was the same as that used on the Super. The cooling system was similar as well, but with a lower water capacity. With the conventional transmission, water capacity was 12 quarts, or 13 1/2 quarts with the heater. With Dynaflow Drive, water capacity was 13 1/2 quarts, or 15 quarts with the heater. Other specs were similar or identical to those of the Super.
Notable features for 1953
The Buick models for 1953 carried several notable features to enhance the buyer's experience. One was the instrument panel. It was ultramodern in design with new dials for glare-free, easy reading. The controls were arranged conveniently to make driving more comfortable and carefree. Also, there was a fashionable vertical-lined grille decorating the area where the Sonomatic Radio was situated on the panel.
All-weather control
Buick models offered three weather control features that kept the passengers cool or warm as needed. One was a set of individually-controlled right and left air intakes, which brought in air from outdoors when desired. Another was the new WeatherWarden venti-heater, which offered two levels of heating by thermostat and quick window defrosting. The third feature was an air conditioner that would frost the air on command during those hot summer days.
Panoramic view
A feature harped about on every model was the one-piece, wrap-around rear window for an all-clear view. It made the car look and feel wider, and gave an unobstructed view in the rear. That was not all the of the window's benefits. The windows protected against sun rays and glare as well because they were made of cool, tinted Easy-Eye Glass all around. These would block 50 percent of the sun's heat and 18 percent of glare. There was also a deeper-tinted band that ran across the upper part of the windshield that offered even more eye protection for the driver and front passengers.
V-8 Fireball engine
Buick models this year were also known for the all-new V-8 Fireball engine that powered the Super and Roadmaster models. It had an amazing 8.5:1 compression ratio, which was among the highest in the country. This engine also offered maximum fuel efficiency and was light and compact for fast acceleration. Along with the engine came an airpower carburetor with four barrels instead of two and the highest development of fireball combustion.
Buick's "Golden Anniversary" was a year of fabulous cars with outstanding performance and a variety of luxury features. Many classic car fans today love these cars because of their significance in Buick history and their rare, elegant beauty.
