1947 Buick Roadmaster Super Eight Series 50

The Buick marque was founded by David Dunbar Buick, a Scottish industrialist. The first car was produced in 1903.

Moving in 1904 from Detroit to Flint in Michigan, the company came under the direction of William C. Durrant.  By 1908 Durant had formed General Motors, but Buick continued to prosper and by 1914, six cylinder engines were being produced and continued to be used until 1930.  Buick essentially catered for the upper-middle class market of America, and with this in mind, the eight cylinder unit arrived in 1931. In the late Twenties, General Motors expanded its operation into India and a large factory was set up in Bombay. The production of Chevrolets, Buicks and commercial vehicles was enabled by parts sent over from the US and by 1937, the plant had expanded and some 11,000 cars were being produced at its height.  Unfortunately, with the arrival of World War II followed by Independence and Partition, the market slumped and the Indian plant eventually closed in 1954.

This 1947 Roadmaster Super Eight Series 50 is an excellent example and has a fascinating recent history, having featured in a February 2009 edition of The Classic American Magazine. Mr Daver, the late owner of this interesting motor car, had always dreamed of replicating his 1947 Buick Super Convertible that he purchased in the 1950s when living in India.  Over the years, his family had listened to numerous stories of his beautiful car, so in time, his wife and son gave themselves the task of finding a near perfect replacement.  Finally after trawling the internet, a Burgundy 1947 Buick Super was indeed found, but in Quebec!

Needless to say, Mr Daver was thrilled with his generous gift. After the pitfalls of distance and errant transportation (the Buick arrived at Felixstowe instead of Southampton), the restoration began with assistance from the Buick Car Club.  Work commenced the 1st June 2006 with the rebuilding of the engine at a mileage of 58482; the gearbox, clutch, fuel and water pumps followed, and the engine was also converted to run on unleaded.  Most of the replacement parts were sourced from America.

The bodywork was in good order however the chrome needed attention.  In early 2008, Classic Car Services of Leicester replaced the interior with stunning red and cream leather seats and a new set of carpets.  Recent work has included the installation of a correct type six volt battery.  Maintained regardless of cost and to an exceptional standard, the Buick is supplied with a vast file including: invoices, a quantity of MOT test certificates, an original handbook, copy workshop manuals, parts information, a wiring diagram and two V5C registration certificates.

With limited spare time, Mr Daver’s son is regrettably offering this stunning motor car for sale with the wish that is will be enjoyed by a likeminded Buick enthusiast.

Auction Date: 3 March 2016