What "Modern" engine would you put in a 1955 Buick? Leno's choice was a 572. The old Buick engines choices are just that .. getting old!
When Leno built that car years ago that was the high horsepower choice of the day. I'd bet that if he had it to do over today it would be an LS swap.
I remember an article where Jay said he wanted a Buick engine, but the 455 wasn't big enough. If he were to build the car today I wonder if he'd go for the new T/A aluminum block? John
Leno was not looking for a stocker. Although his '55 is factory appearing, about the only stock part is the body. The frame is highly modified, the suspension has a lot of Corvette stuff in it, the driveline is modern, and even the wheels are larger then the stock 15 inchers. Jay had the wheel covers specially made - they appear as originals, but are larger in diameter then the factory items. A 322 would not have come close to delivering the power that Leno wanted. My guess is that Jay has the factory 322 in stock somewhere, though.
Leno was not looking for a stocker. Although his '55 is factory appearing, about the only stock part is the body. The frame is highly modified, the suspension has a lot of Corvette stuff in it, the driveline is modern, and even the wheels are larger then the stock 15 inchers. Jay had the wheel covers specially made - they appear as originals, but are larger in diameter then the factory items. A 322 would not have come close to delivering the power that Leno wanted. My guess is that Jay has the factory 322 in stock somewhere, though.
That (T/A 455) choice would have my been second to the nailhead I remember hearing that , too. I might've gone with a 401 or 425....... I saw it on TV when it first aired. It is most interesting. And obviously no expense was spared. That engine would'nt have been my choice. Nor, those colors. Especially for the interior. But, that's why they make chocolate and vanilla:laugh:
He should've painted back to the original black over yellow. The joke at 1:45 about the engine catching up with the gas pump was in New Yorker magazine in the '30s
I had heard that joke when I was a kid; much later then the '30s though. I like the color of your Roadmaster, James.
I read it in a publication from the thirties. But, much later when I read it, as well:laugh: Thanks, John! The colors of Leno's interior are so much like new cars. The choices for new car interiors; gray or grey. and if you want two tone it is; gray and grey.
What recent production or aftermarket engine (not nailhead or 455) would you put in a 50's or earlier Buick? Example: The link below is of a 1954 Buick with a Mercedes engine. http://www.bimmerboost.com/showthread.php?17563-1954-Buick-MERCEDES-Powered! Superbuickguy responded: LS with a Buick rendezvous engine cover - thank you. 73 Centurion responded: T/A aluminum - thank you. Thanks. Jon
