Buick built the Special as its cheapest model for two decades, but the 322-cubic-inch V8 standard in 1956 still made it a genuine performer, not just an economy choice. The three chrome ventiports on each fender were Buicks own status code, telling buyers exactly where the Special sat below the four-port Super and Roadmaster. With 334,000 built across five body styles, it was anything but unpopular. It also represents one of the last years before the Special name disappeared entirely.