1956 BUICK CENTURY 63D

[JSN]

HELLO, I AM NEW TO THIS FIELD. I JUST PURCHASED A 56 BUICK CENTURY 4DR. BODY STYLE 63D. DOES THE D STAND FOR DELUXE? IF SO HOW DOES IT DIFFER FROM A REGULAR STYLE 63? THIS CAR HAS FOUR PORT HOLES ON THE FRONT FENDERS. CAN ANYONE TELL ME WHY SOME HAVE 3 AND OTHERS HAVE 4? THANKS

[TODD]

Yes, the D stands for Deluxe. The difference between the 63 and the 63D was minor, but I can't locate the specifics for the 56 models. The base price on the 63D was $3041 which was $16 more than a model 63. Weight on the two models was the same at 4000 lb. even. The difference must be minor. The 63D appears to have been a last-minute addition to the line up, it is not shown in the shop manual.

In earlier years some of the "D" deluxe models had better upholstery and chrome trim around the windshield etc.

In the years using portholes, the most expensive models- Roadmaster, Limited, Electra, and Electra 225- always received 4. This certainly was a status symbol if nothing else. Even those not interested in cars knew a 4-holer was a very expensive model. The Century received 4 presumably becuase it had the larger engine that the Roadmaster used.