While we see our share of stunning classics at Barn Finds, it appears that this 1956 Buick Century Hardtop is a case where the photos don’t do it justice. The seller says that it looks even better in person following a restoration in 1995. It runs and drives perfectly, making it a turnkey proposition for potential buyers. The seller has listed the Buick here on Craigslist in Santa Fe, New Mexico. It could be yours for $29,000, and I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Mike F. for spotting this beauty.

Tri-tone paint combinations are something that we rarely see on modern vehicles, but Buick proved that the right set of colors could make a bold but classy impact. This 1956 Century Hardtop features Seminole Red, Dover White, and Carlsbad Black that accentuates the car’s low and sleek lines. The seller states that it underwent a faithful restoration nearly thirty years ago, and its impressive presentation suggests it has been treated respectfully and sheltered from the worst Mother Nature can throw at it ever since. The paint holds a deep shine, while the panels are laser-straight. The gaps are tight and consistent, and the trim is immaculate. I can’t spot any problems with the tinted glass, while the wire wheels and whitewalls add the ideal finishing touch to a classic that oozes class.

The new owner won’t need to spend a dime on this Buick’s interior because if it isn’t flawless, it doesn’t miss that goal by much. The Gray trim, in cloth and vinyl, is free from wear and marks, with the same true of the matching carpet. The wheel shows slight “yellowing” which is a typical sign of age, but it hasn’t cracked or split. The bright trim, one of the interior highlights, sparkles beautifully, and there are no aftermarket additions. It isn’t lavishly equipped by modern standards, but the buyer will undoubtedly welcome the factory AM radio and the clock.

Buick may have focused on luxury and comfort when developing the 1956 Century range, but they didn’t lose sight of its performance potential. Lifting the hood reveals the 322ci V8 that produces 255hp and 341 ft/lbs of torque. Shifting duties are tackled by a two-speed Dynaflow transmission, with power assistance for the steering and brakes accentuating this car’s luxury leanings. The Dynaflow saps some of this Buick’s acceleration potential, but with the ability to hit 117mph, this Century’s performance was considered relatively impressive in 1956. Those who fancy a New Mexico holiday might find this classic irresistible because they could fly in and drive home in a car that is a turnkey proposition in excellent mechanical health.

Some enthusiasts steer clear of restored classics because they fear that sparkling paint may hide a multitude of nasty surprises. However, when nearly three decades have passed since work ended and the car still presents exceptionally well, that’s a good sign that the build was completed to a high standard. Such is the case with this 1956 Buick Century Hardtop. It appears to need nothing, and the seller’s price looks fairly competitive in the current market. It has only been on the market for a few days, and I suspect it won’t take long to find a new home. Are you tempted to make it yours?