LOT 609
1937 Buick Model 40-C Convertible Phaeton Chassis no. 3166867
Sold for US$52,650 inc. premium
Lot 609
1937 Buick Model 40-C Convertible Phaeton Chassis no. 3166867
1937 Buick Model 40-C Convertible Phaeton
Chassis no. 3166867
Chassis no. 3166867
Among Buick aficionados ‘37 and ‘38 are magic years, there is even a club dedicated to just these years, much of that magic is their beautiful styling by Harley Earl and GM Art and Color. Earl’s mammoth contributions to General Motors’ looks began with the LaSalle then the glorious post-1928 Cadillacs. He was on a roll when he began work on the new Buick line up, under the command of one of its most dynamic leaders, Harlow “Red” Curtice. Curtice saw that Buick’s slide was induced by complacency and their styling was looking old-fashioned, also he was keen to revamp the cars in an effort to purge unnecessary weight and to improve their performance.
Curtice introduced a new smaller Buick, the Series 40, and what this Buick lacked in size it more than made up for in style. It was beautifully designed with all the Art Deco hallmarks that would define the ‘37-‘38 series. The split grille was a masterpiece complimented by the teardrop lamps. The fenders were finally correctly proportioned to the now smaller wheels and the body scaled to compliment both. It all made for a look that was very stylish and cohesive. Many cars up to ‘36-‘37 were modified 32-34 era bodies with smaller wheels and skirted fenders – they often look too big for their lower halves.
The ‘37-‘38 Buicks have pleasing unified design of something done from the ground up without compromise, and this styling was not limited to the exterior. The interior received a wonderfully stylish dashboard frequently equipped with a striking speaker grille in the center. The banjo steering wheel with horn ring is another small masterpiece.
This 1937 Model 40-C is an excellent example of the series. It has been subject to a great restoration that compliments the car nicely; it appears that no detail has been overlooked. This car is fitted with the factory radio unit with art deco controls. Looking under the hood you realize every effort has been made to making this authentic.
These Buicks are wonderful cars with great performance and tremendous style, and this example should prove as nice to drive as it is to look at. With its lightened smaller chassis powered by proven performance of the 248ci OHV straight Eight these cars feel light and responsive and the four-wheel hydraulic brakes keep everything under control.
In Bonhams’ opinion, you would be hard pressed to find a nicer example of a 40-C Buick; it is a great restoration of a legendary car.
Curtice introduced a new smaller Buick, the Series 40, and what this Buick lacked in size it more than made up for in style. It was beautifully designed with all the Art Deco hallmarks that would define the ‘37-‘38 series. The split grille was a masterpiece complimented by the teardrop lamps. The fenders were finally correctly proportioned to the now smaller wheels and the body scaled to compliment both. It all made for a look that was very stylish and cohesive. Many cars up to ‘36-‘37 were modified 32-34 era bodies with smaller wheels and skirted fenders – they often look too big for their lower halves.
The ‘37-‘38 Buicks have pleasing unified design of something done from the ground up without compromise, and this styling was not limited to the exterior. The interior received a wonderfully stylish dashboard frequently equipped with a striking speaker grille in the center. The banjo steering wheel with horn ring is another small masterpiece.
This 1937 Model 40-C is an excellent example of the series. It has been subject to a great restoration that compliments the car nicely; it appears that no detail has been overlooked. This car is fitted with the factory radio unit with art deco controls. Looking under the hood you realize every effort has been made to making this authentic.
These Buicks are wonderful cars with great performance and tremendous style, and this example should prove as nice to drive as it is to look at. With its lightened smaller chassis powered by proven performance of the 248ci OHV straight Eight these cars feel light and responsive and the four-wheel hydraulic brakes keep everything under control.
In Bonhams’ opinion, you would be hard pressed to find a nicer example of a 40-C Buick; it is a great restoration of a legendary car.
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