1940 Buick Series 70 Roadmaster Convertible Coupe

As the 1930s came to a close, Buick adopted an all eight-cylinder range that would continue through to World War II and beyond. The 1940 Roadmaster was designated the Series 70 and was positioned just below the top-of-the-range Limited Series 80, in the model line-up. It shared its styling with the Super and was available as a Touring Sedan, Convertible Phaeton, Convertible Coupe or Sport Coupe. The 76C Convertible Coupe sold for $1,430 and just 6060 examples were built. This was the last time Buick offered sidemounts and the first time 'Fore-N-Aft' directional indicators were added, an industry first.

This Roadmaster Convertible Coupe was once owned by automotive adventurer Martin Swig who purchased the car in 2006. At the time of purchase, it wore an older restoration but was still a driver-quality vehicle. A short time later, swig sold the car to a close friend. The car was then prepared for the month-long, 7,600 Peking-to-Paris Motor Challenge. After its return to the US, the Buick was comprehensively gone through as needed. It has since participated in the California Mille on two occasions.

In 2012, this car was offered for sale at the Quail Lodge Sale presented by Bonhams. The car was estimated to sell for $50,000 - $60,000. As bidding came to a close, the car had failed to find a buyer willing to satisfy its reserve. It would leave the auction unsold.

By Daniel Vaughan | Oct 2012