Description
Buick sat just below Cadillac in the General Motors family producing cars that were just a little smaller and more restrained and aimed firmly at the professional class buyer.
One thing that was not restrained was the performance. Buick fitted GM’s “Fireball 8”, a straight eight driving through a three-speed manual transmission, endowing the car with 100mph plus potential and earning it the nickname “The Banker’s Hot Rod”.
At Milestones we have marketed a number of American classics including a Willys Jeep, Mustangs, Camaros - but never a WW2 saloon until now.
History:
Manufactured in 1941 the Buick started life in Hawaii and was on the island when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbour on 7th December 1941. The car was commandeered by the military, as there was a desperate lack of transport, and spent the rest of the war with the navy.
There is a copy of the original Naval pass in the Buicks windscreen and a history of the USS Abbot and Y2C Loranger Victor can be found at - details above
Mid-1990’s: The Buick had by now found a new home in Washington State. A full body restoration and mechanical recommission was completed (Pictures in history file).
2010/ 12: The car moved to a new keeper who completed an engine overhaul (camshaft, lifters, timing chain, gears, fuel/ vacuum pump) and a replacement clutch.
2012: The Buick was imported to the UK. The owner overhauled the brakes (wheel-cylinders and hoses) replaced the wheel bearings and fitted an electric fuel pump. At this time the US Navy badging was also re-instated.
Today the ‘8’ presents extremely well and is a real credit to the knowledge and deep commitment to quality & originality of the previous owners – entering/ driving her is like stepping back in time.
Used at military displays, car shows and film/ promotional work the Buick is only being sold as the owner is downsizing his collection of military vehicles.
Needs to be viewed and driven in order to be fully appreciated.
