The 1953 General Motors Motorama at the New York Waldorf-Astoria was a significant historical event that introduced four of the most unique and desirable production cars in today's collector-car world. The Cadillac Eldorado convertible, the Oldsmobile Fiesta, the Corvette, and one of the most exciting, the Buick 50th Anniversary Skylark convertible, all made their first appearance at the 1953 Motorama. Although built on the standard 121.5-inch wheelbase Roadmaster chassis, the Skylark body construction and styling was far from standard. The Skylark front and rear fender design was unique with fully radius-ed wheel opening lined with white or red painted inner wells. The standard Roadmaster venti-ports were eliminated. The upper body line dropped down at the rear of the doors, differentiating it from the Special and Super convertibles. The sleek styling was accentuated by a lowered windshield and top. The side and rear-quarter trim was enhanced by curved chrome "Sweepspear" accents that would continue into later Buicks through 1958, and on this model, included special side medallions. This Skylark was part of the John Staluppi Cars of Dreams Museum in West Palm Beach Florida restoration and its finished in correct red contrasted by a white convertible top. The interior is finished in matching red and white leather with red nylon carpets and floor mats. The instrument panel is color-keyed with Damscene-pattern lower panels. The Roadmaster chassis is powered by Buick's new-for-1953 322CI Nailhead OHV V-8 equipped with a Stromberg 4-barrel carburetor, with the high-compression V-8 producing 188 HP. The engine and engine compartment of this Skylark are restored to correct appearance and condition. A standard Dynaflow automatic transmission completes the drivetrain. A full compliment of accessories were standard in the Skylark package including power steering, brakes, locks, antenna and seat. Chrome plated Kelsey-Hayes 40-spoke 15-inch wire wheels with wide whitewall tires were also standard. A total of 1690 Skylark convertibles were built for the 1953 model year. This spectacular Buick will make a statement of quality and style in any collection. This Buick Skylark convertible is an amazing piece of automotive art and may be the nicest Skylark in America.
