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LOT 28

1940 Buick Special Series 40 Convertible Coupe Chassis no. 13796501 Engine no. 43991619

Sold for US$31,360 inc. premiumLot to be sold without reserve
Lot 28

'From the Maine Classic Car Museum Collection'
1940 Buick Special Series 40 Convertible Coupe

1940 Buick Special Series 40 Convertible Coupe
Chassis no. 13796501
Engine no. 43991619


248ci OHV Inline 8-Cylinder Engine
Single Carburetor
107hp at 3400rpm
3-Speed Manual Transmission
Independent Front with Live Rear Axle Suspension
4-Wheel Drum Brakes

*Restored to a high standard in the early 2000s
*Perfect for weekend cruises
*Delightful Art-Deco design


THE PRE-WAR BUICK

Inventor David Dunbar Buick built his first automobile in Detroit, Michigan in 1903. More designer than businessman, Buick's lack of talent in the latter role led to numerous changes of ownership before its founder was eventually eased out in 1908, his departure from the Buick Motor Company coinciding with its establishment as the cornerstone of new owner William C. Durant's General Motors.

Under Durant's stewardship production rose dramatically and by the end of the 1930s Buick had become one of America's most popular cars. For a period in the 1920s the range had consisted entirely of sixes and then at the end of 1930 Buick dramatically axed its six-cylinder models, adopting an all eight-cylinder range for 1931. Stylistically and mechanically, the Buick range was comprehensively revised for 1936, featuring 'turret top' styling and improved independent front suspension, and these revitalized straight-eights would carry Buick through to WW2 and beyond.

THE CAR OFFERED

On offer is a wonderful example of the Series 40 (248ci, 4,066cc) Buick Special Eight, which would have left the Flint, Michigan factory in 1940, Buick's best ever production year.

Acquired for the Museum at one of the Owls Head Transportation Museum auctions in Maine in 2017, according to information provided then the Buick had undergone a thorough restoration in the early 2000s after which it had been lightly used and well maintained. This has remained true in its current ownership and while there is now light age to the refurbishment, undeniably it still presents very well.

The rich dark green paintwork is the perfect counter to enable the plethora of chrome details on these cars to 'pop'. The white walls, light fawn top and cream interior complete that contrast. The interior is also noted for its engine turned finish, as well as its set of period instruments and the period Sonomatic radio in the center.

Buicks of this era have an undeniable physical presence as well as timeless styling, a winning combination which continues to be appreciated more than 80 years after they rolled off the production line.

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