1939 Buick Series 40 Special

As Britain entered the war years, the automobile industry turned to making weapons and military vehicles. Meanwhile across the Pond, America had no constraints and carried on producing large and powerful motor cars, each one making a determined statement in a world of excess. The original Buick Series 40 was built from 1936 and the body platform was available as a four door saloon or four door convertible. For 1939, the model had several revisions incorporating an all new waterfall radiator grill with thin vertical bars and a narrower bonnet. The twin side mounted spare wheels add to the impressive styling. Inside, the main instruments were moved in front of the driver and a three speed column gear change was introduced. Independent front suspension at the front with coil springs at the rear. All wood in the structure was replaced with steel. The smooth Straight Eight Dynaflash engine had five main bearings and displaced 248 cu ins. Hydraulic brakes were fitted all round. In the UK, the stylish model range was certainly favoured by dignitaries and the Royal Family, who chose Buick’s Ontario-built models for their right hand driving position.

We are told by the vendor’s family that this rather astonishing Series 40 Special, built in Canada and in original right hand drive, has been in the current ownership since approximately 1949, when the current custodian purchased the motor car from the previous owner in Salisbury, for the princely sum of £450. It resided with the family in north Dorset for a number of years, and made several further house moves, always being used as the custodian’s daily transportation up until the mid-seventies, after which the Buick was used for high days and holidays. We understand that the vendor ceased to use his American classic in the early 1990s, and the motor car was subsequently stored by various members of his family. From Bournemouth then, it has arrived back in Stalbridge with us here at DVCA in unrestored condition. As the Buick has not been run for a number of years, we cannot verify the condition of the engine or its general mechanics; the interior is salvageable and if cleaned and treated with hide food, the original leather upholstery should present well. In general terms, as far as we are aware the motor car is complete and is supplied with a replacement bonnet mascot, and the body appears to be sound and solid, but due to previous storage conditions, there is surface rust. It’s certainly an exciting and interesting project for a Buick enthusiast.

Unfortunately, all paperwork has been mislaid for the Series 40 Special but the V5C registration certificate is supplied.

Auction Date: 9 March 2023