LOT 105

1956 Buick Special Estate Wagon Chassis no. 4C4031883

Sold for US$31,360 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve

Previous Lot

Next Lot

Lot 105

1956 Buick Special Estate Wagon

The Audrain Auction|3 October 2025, 16:00 EDT|Newport, Rhode Island, International Tennis Hall of Fame

1956 Buick Special Estate Wagon
Chassis no. 4C4031883

322ci V8 Engine
2-Barrel Carburetor
220bhp at 4,400 rpm
2-Speed Automatic Transmission
Independent Front Suspension and a Solid Axle Rear
Four Wheel Drum Brakes

*Among the rarest of its kind: only about 4,545 Estate Wagons were built in 1956 out of 13,770 four-door station wagons.
*Designed to seat up to six passengers, it featured front and rear bench seats, with the rear seat folding down for expanded cargo space.
*Features a dramatic panoramic (wraparound) windshield

THE BUICK SPECIAL ESTATE WAGON

The Estate Wagon (Model 49) was a rare variant—Buick built approximately 13,770 four-door Special wagons in 1956, of which only around 4,545 were the upscale Estate Wagons. Powered by the 322 ci (Fireball) V‑8 engine, delivering approximately 220 hp and 319 lb‑ft of torque, and paired with either Buicks's smooth Dynaflow automatic transmission or the more hands‑on 3‑speed manual.

The distinctive design includes Sweepspear chrome trim, fender mounted VentiPorts (portholes), a panoramic (wraparound) windshield, vertical taillights, and a practical split tailgate. Known for steady highway reliability and cruisability, some examples show additional upgrades like pusher fans, dual exhaust, power steering, brakes, and even aftermarket A/C.

Interiors typically feature vinyl bench seats, front and rear, in coordinated colors—turquoise and green, red and ivory, or mint and white—often matching the exterior two-tone finish. The steering wheel is a stylish three‑spoke design with a chrome horn ring and Buick crest, framing instruments like the 120-mph speedometer and auxiliary gauges, including fuel, oil pressure, amps, and coolant.

Amenities included Sonomatic push‑button AM radio, tissue dispenser, trip odometer, clock, and a heater & defroster with optional A/C available. The rear bench folds (often split-folding) to expand cargo space—making the wagon both luxurious and practical.

The 1956 Special Estate Wagon stands out as one of Buick's rare mid‑50s station wagons—offering both aesthetic charm and practicality. Whether original survivors or restored showpieces, these wagons represent a blend of period styling, robust performance, and spacious utility.

THE CAR OFFERED

Acquired out of a prominent car collection in Canada, this 1956 Buick Special Estate Wagon presents itself as being very well maintained and finished in a period shade of tangerine over a white interior.

Additional information

This auction is now finished. If you are interested in consigning in future auctions, please contact the specialist department. If you have queries about lots purchased in this auction, please contact client services.
Buyers Premium and Charges
The final bid (hammer) price of each lot will be subject to a buyer's premium.
For MOTORCAR property the premium is 12% on the first $250,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $250,000.
For MOTORCYCLE property the premium is 15% on the first $100,000 of the bid price and 10% on any amount of the bid price exceeding $100,000.
For AUTOMOBILIA or non motor vehicle property, the premium is 28% of the first $50,000 of the bid price, plus 27% of the amount of the bid price above $50,000 up to and including $1,000,000, plus 21% of the amount of the bid price above $1,000,000 up to and including $6,000,000, plus 14.5% of the amount of the bid price above $6,000,000.
A 3rd-party bidding platform fee equal to 4% of the Hammer Price shall be payable by buyers whose successful bid is submitted via 3rd-party bidding platforms, including Invaluable; Live Auctioneers; The Saleroom; Lot-tissimo.
Buyers' Obligations
ALL BIDDERS MUST AGREE THAT THEY HAVE READ AND UNDERSTOOD BONHAMS' CONDITIONS OF SALE AND AGREE TO BE BOUND BY THEM, AND AGREE TO PAY THE BUYER'S PREMIUM AND ANY OTHER CHARGES MENTIONED IN THE NOTICE TO BIDDERS. THIS AFFECTS THE BIDDERS LEGAL RIGHTS.
If you have any questions about the Conditions of Sale, please contact your nearest client services team.
From 28 June 2025, the import into the EU of non-EU property of a certain age (and in some categories above a certain value) is subject to additional requirements. Under the relevant EU Regulation, it is the Buyer's sole responsibility to assess whether any Lot meets the criteria for import into the EU. The refusal of any required Import License or Importer Statement, or any delay in obtaining such License or Statement shall not give rise to the rescission or cancelation of any Sale, nor allow any delay in making full payment for the Lot.
Collection Notices
COLLECTION
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 4 and 5.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 3 - during the auction, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 4 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 5 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motor Vehicle lots. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Payment Notices
PAYMENT
Post auction, all lots will be removed from the Tennis Hall of Fame and will be available for payment and collection from 250 W Main Road, Middletown on October 4 and 5.
DEADLINE: 12pm EDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
LOCATION: 250 W Main Road, Middletown, Rhode Island 02842
CASHIERING:
• Friday October 3 - during the auction, Tennis Hall of Fame
• Saturday October 4 - 8:30am to 5pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
• Sunday October 5 - 8:30am to 12pm, 250 W Main Road, Middletown
For buyers who plan to collect their purchases immediately, Bonhams recommends paying by wire transfer or certified check (bank draft). To expedite weekend collection, Bonhams recommends obtaining a Bank Letter of Guarantee.
Credit cards are not accepted for Motor Vehicle lots. We strongly encourage contactless payment of invoices prior to collection. Lots will not be released to buyers until full and final payment is received by Bonhams. Payment made by personal or business check may result in property not being released until purchase funds clear our bank. Bidders may also pre- arrange suitable check or credit approval with Client Services, +1 (212) 644 9001 [email protected].
LOT COLLECTION
Lot Collection Deadline: 12pm PDT on Sunday, October 5, 2025
Uncollected Motorcar lots will be uplifted and stored by Passport Auto Transport. Uplift and storage shall be at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Motor vehicle removal and storage charges will be charged by Passport Auto Transport according to its standard rates and ultimate destination of the vehicle(s). For applicable charges, please consult with Passport in advance of purchase.
TRANSPORT ARRANGEMENTS
Representatives of Bonhams|Cars preferred carriers are available to provide shipping quotes and transport information.
Purchased lots become the buyer's risk once the hammer falls. Storage, collection, and uplift for paid and unpaid lot removal is at the buyer's sole risk and expense. Overseas buyers are strongly advised to make collection arrangements with Bonhams in advance of the auction.
Buyers may have an authorised agent collect their purchases according to the collection deadline. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure that their designated agent has the auction venue details, bill of lading showing where the lot will be transported and proof of the buyer authorization for collection of the lot(s). Bonhams will release the lot only once all payment requirements have been met including payment of taxes and any applicable fees. Buyers and/or their agent are responsible for collecting all available parts, logbooks, title, keys and any other accompanying documents.
Domestic Motorcar Transport
Passport Auto Transport
Contact: Ed Watts, +1 (417) 588 4921 or mobile +1 (314) 496 6228, [email protected]
International Motorcar and Motorcycle Transporter
Schumacher Cargo Logistics Schumacher Secure
Contact: Warren Barnes, +1 (310) 626 7117, [email protected]
International Motorcar Transporter
CARS (Classic Automotive Relocation Services)
Contact: Denise Rodriguez, +1 (305) 849 9326, [email protected]
Automobilia
Contact the Client Services team at +1 (212) 644 9001, [email protected] for automobilia shipping quotes.
Shipping Notices
Los Angeles & New York Auctions
If you have requested a shipping quote, we will send this to you via email within 5 business days of the auction ending.
Please note our shipping quotes are bespoke and require special care and handling from our team and shippers. Shipping will be booked after payment is received. Please allow 7-14 business days from the time of booking for packing and dispatch, depending on your chosen shipping method. If your purchase is time sensitive, or you wish to explore other options, please see our list of alternative third party shippers in New York and Los Angeles who may be able to assist you.
Oversized Lots
Please note that all lots marked with a W in the catalogue are oversized and subject to additional storage and shipping methods. All additional lots purchased with W lots are considered group lots and will be subject to the same terms as W lots.
W Lots will be transferred to offsite storage at DTD Fine Art Services at the buyer's risk and expense within five (5) business days following the auction. Please contact the Client Services team at [email protected] for the exact movement date.
The per-lot charges levied by DTD Fine Art Services are as follows (plus any applicable sales tax):
FURNITURE/LARGE OBJECTS
Transfer .................. $75
Daily storage........... $10
Insurance (on Hammer + Premium + tax) 0.3%
SMALL OBJECTS
Transfer ................. $37.50
Daily storage........... $5
Insurance (on Hammer + Premium + tax) 0.3%
Please note property is also subject to a Cross Dock Release Fee ($25 for Smalls and $45 for Furniture and Large Objects) & if charges are paid with a credit card, Door to Door Fine Art Services will charge a 3% Convenience Fee.
If you have any questions, please contact our Client Services team.
Boston & Marlborough Auctions
Please click HERE for detailed collection and shipping information for Boston and Marlborough auctions.