1953 Buick Wildcat Concept I

Most “Dream Cars” were anything but.

With deadlines looming, and pressure building, the heat was on GM designers to get concept cars out the door. In order to wow the crowds at Motorama, the cars just had to look good. In most instances, they didn’t even have to run.

The 1953 Buick Wildcat was completely different. GM engineers took the time to outfit this classic from bumper to bumper, from the engine to the radio. They made sure the Buick Wildcat could have been driven off the showroom floor — unlike any other concept car made by GM.

Then this Wildcat helped kill the concept car altogether.

What made this car both the pinnacle of the Motorama era, and the beginning of the end? You’ll find out, if you watch One of a Kind: Cars. Only on Velocity. Only at 9:30 E/P. 8:30 CST. And don’t forget to check in with @VelocityTV1 or @OneofAKindTV at 5pm EST for details on tonight’s photo caption contest (photo will be released at 5).