Full details & bid : mecum.com
This 1953 Buick Custom Convertible, known as “Nickel & Change,” is a bold reinterpretation of mid-century American luxury. Originally designed for the 2019 SEMA Show, this professionally crafted one-off build combines meticulous custom work, premium materials, and a strong performance core. With just 100 miles since completion, it stands as a show-quality vehicle that delivers both visual drama and mechanical refinement.
Design and craftsmanship: The convertible is coated in a custom-mixed PPG Blue Metallic paint infused with diamond crystals, giving it a deep luster under the light. The satin-plated big tooth grille, trim, and reworked bumpers—cut, shortened, and tucked for a sleeker fit—exemplify its custom identity. Enhancing its profile are shaved door handles with remote operation, a smoothed hood and trunk lid, and unique 1954 Chevrolet tail lights fitted with custom lenses. Accents like the painted frame and hidden stereo reinforce its seamless, clean finish.
Interior details: Inside, the cabin is wrapped in a tailored Saddle and Champagne theme, echoed by a coordinating Haartz cloth soft top. Custom LED-lit side panels and a hand-made smoothed dash complement Dakota Digital gauges and Lokar controls. Modern comforts meet classic styling with components like a hidden Bluetooth stereo, new moldings and glass, and American Autowire wiring that maintains system reliability without disrupting aesthetics.
Engine and suspension: Under the hood lies a potent 401 CI Nailhead V-8 engine paired with a Demon carburetor and Sanderson headers. A March front runner system, machined to match the valve covers and air cleaner, adds precision and style. Backing this setup is a 700R4 automatic transmission with overdrive, delivering smooth and responsive shifting for modern usability.
Chassis and ride quality: Beneath its body, the car boasts a Heidts tubular front suspension, 3-link rear suspension with Fox shocks, and AccuAir E-Level electronic control by Ridetech. This advanced suspension setup offers adjustability and road composure far beyond the car’s original capabilities. A power rack and pinion steering system and Wilwood power disc brakes provide refined handling and confident braking. The stainless Magnaflow exhaust system with titanium wrapping finishes the performance package with flair and durability.
Wheels and stance: New Truespoke wire wheels paired with wide whitewall Diamond Back radial tires complete the car’s nostalgic yet upgraded look. The stance is further perfected by the electronically controlled suspension, giving it a low-slung, aggressive posture when parked and adjustable comfort on the move.
Final touches: Details like an Ididit steering column and LED lighting elements in the doors reflect the attention poured into the build. Every inch of this Buick has been reimagined with the vision of delivering a high-end custom cruiser that could headline any showcase.
Summary
-
Professionally built for 2019 SEMA Show
-
401 CI Nailhead V-8 with Demon carburetor
-
700R4 automatic with overdrive
-
Custom PPG Blue paint with diamond crystals
-
Smoothed bodywork, satin nickel trim
-
Saddle/Champagne interior with LED and digital features
-
AccuAir electronic suspension and Fox shocks
-
Wilwood disc brakes and Magnaflow exhaust
-
Truespoke wire wheels with whitewall tires
-
Only 100 miles since completion
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
AI Assistance: ChatGPT
