1947 Buick Roadmaster Convertible Coupe

Estimate:

$75,000-$95,000 US

C

Series 70, Model 76C. 144 bhp, 320 cu. in. inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with semi-elliptic leaf springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129"
The Buick Roadmaster was introduced in 1936 and continued in production until its replacement by the Electra in 1959. During this long period, the Roadmaster model line consistently highlighted Buick’s renowned design and engineering capabilities, providing a premium-level car at a medium price. While the 1947 Roadmaster was still largely based on the prewar 1942 design, buyer demand remained strong in the frenzied postwar seller’s market, while the first all-new postwar models were being developed and refined in time for a scheduled late-1948 launch. Most notably, the 1947 Roadmaster continued to display the very fashionable fade-away front fender treatment of the 1946 models, a stylistic feature that inspired the earliest California-based customizers to utilize it on their own creations during the late 1940s and early 1950s.

Mechanically, the very robust “Fireball Dynaflash” inline eight-cylinder engine, in tandem with a proven three-speed manual gearbox, continued to power the Roadmaster. Now offering a strong 144 brake horsepower with single two-barrel carburetion and 6.6:1 compression, this torquey engine was relentlessly improved over its lengthy production cycle and continued in use through 1952. The Roadmaster, which was available in four-door Sedan, two-door Sedanette, Station Wagon and Convertible Coupe forms for 1947, continued to represent a clear expression of its owner’s upward mobility. In fact, the successful Roadmaster line helped Buick carve out a 7.5 per-cent share of the domestic car market in 1947 and today, the handsome Convertible Coupe remains a collector favorite.

Sold new in Portland, Oregon by the firm Braley & Graham, this wonderfully preserved 1947 Roadmaster Convertible Coupe was sparingly enjoyed and carefully stored indoors until 1963. Thereafter, it was stored outdoors and driven only on occasion, accumulating just 2,400 miles by 1966. Today, with slightly over 5,000 miles, the Roadmaster is a part of a highly respected private collection and benefits from sympathetic, fastidious and knowledgeable ownership. It remains remarkably original and was treated to a high-quality, attractive cosmetic restoration including an exterior refinish in the original color, as well as a restored interior with correct materials used throughout.


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