1950 Buick Series 70 Roadmaster

Buick resumed civilian production following World War II with updated versions of its pre-war vehicles. The company's first new post-war designs were introduced in 1949, along with some new body styles, and the introduction of the two-speed Dynaflow transmission. The Art Deco designs of the 1930s and 1940s were replaced by a modern appearance with the top-of-the-line Roadmaster distinguished by a large, bright, 'toothy' grille that descended below the car, giving it a highly distinctive and unique front-end appearance.

Both the entry-level Special Series 40 and the intermediate Super Series 50 shared a 121.5-inch wheelbase, while the top-of-the-line Roadmaster Series 70 rested on a 126.25-inch wheelbase platform. For buyers seeking even more interior space, Buick offered the Series 70 with a 130.25-inch platform on the Model 72R Riviera Sedan and the 76R Riviera hardtop coupe. Standard Roadmaster bodies had a length of 214-inches while the long-wheelbase versions measured 217.5-inches. Prices ranged from $2,630 to $3,400.

Roadmaster styling included the aforementioned toothy cascading grille, quad 'Ventiports' a curvaceous shape, and Roadmaster script above the full-length bodyside molding. Deluxe models added hydraulic windows and seat controls, and a plusher interior. Power was from an overhead-valve, 320.2 cubic-inch inline eight-cylinder engine with hydraulic valve lifters, a Stromberg or Carter carburetor, and delivered 152 horsepower at 3,600 RPM. They used a two-speed Dynaflow drive transmission, four-wheel hydraulic brakes, and a coil-spring suspension.

Harlow Curtice came to General Motors from Champion Spark Plugs in 1933 and eventually assumed the positions of GM Executive Vice-President in 1948, and President and C.E.O. in 1953.

by Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2020