1905 Buick Model C Tourer

The Buick marque has a history that dates back to the early 1900s and was among the earliest automobile manufacturers in the U.S. Their first model was the Model B, produced in 1904, and none of the original examples are known to survive, though a replica lives in the Alfred P. Sloan Museum in Flint, Michigan. Thus, the earliest extant Buick models are the 1905 Model Cs, similar but with a wider hood molding and pushrods on top of the twin-cylinder engine. It is believed that 14 examples of the Model C exist.

This particular Model C Tourer is the fifth earliest model, with frame number of 348 and a flywheel stamped number of 18903. It is believed that this may have been built in June of 1905 and was formerly owned by early collector Clifford Beauchamp of Waukegan, Illinois. It was later acquired by Wisconsin collector and enthusiast, Richard Braund. After Mr. Braund's death, the Buick passed to Peter Eastwood of Pasadena, California.

Long in restoration, the Buick was acquired by Les Holden from Mr. Eastwood in 2006. The restoration was completed under Mr. Holden's care, including brass-finished by Rick Britten. After the work was completed, it was shown at Pinehurst, as well as at the famed Amelia Island Concours d'Elegance in both 2011 and 2020. It was also awarded an AACA Grand National First Prize in 2010, a year after it was selected for the national Edgar E. Rohr Memorial Award.

By Daniel Vaughan | Jan 2022

The foundation of the Buick automobile was laid in 1904 with the introduction of the successful two-cylinder, single chain drive model. This design would continue with a few basic changes through 1910. Designated the Model B in 1904, 37 cars were built during that first year of production. Today, there are no known surviving 1904 Buicks.

In 1905, Buick would only produce the Model C, which really was a virtual carbon copy of the Model B. By year-end, a total of 750 Model C Buicks would be built. This example is one of only 14 known to exist today.

It is powered by a two-cylinder opposed engine with a bore and stroke of 4.5 x 5, displacing 159 cubic inches and developing 22 horsepower.

This example new cost $1,200 and that price included two oil side lamps, tail lamp, a horn, and tool kit.

By Daniel Vaughan | Mar 2011