Classic Car Fair, Post Centre, Halswell, Christchurch, NZ. Phone 027 660 2366 or Email
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1947 BUICK 56-C SUPER CONVERTIBLE

 

 

 

 

 

1947 BUICK 56-C SUPER CONVERTIBLE

This Buick was sold new in Hawaii. Its second owner, Ron Helmer, was a Canadian writer and film producer who bought the Buick in 1954 and shipped the car from Hawaii to New Zealand. Ron was a keen hunter and fisherman and later wrote the book ‘Stag Party’ which features tales and pictures of the Buick with the famous kiwi Barry Crump at its wheel. A copy of Ron’s book will be included with the car together with the service and hood manuals.

The current owner purchased the vehicle 5 years ago and has driven the Buick extensively through the north island. It has always performed faultlessly. A recent new 6V battery, new kingpins together with a reconditioned water pump and front shocks are the only mechanical upgrades I have made since owning the car. I have also exchanged the 4.4 ratio differential for a 4.1 which makes cruising at highway speeds more comfortable. The Buick has always been stored indoors.

The engine is a 248 cubic inch Fireball Dynaflash Eight unit producing one-hundred and ten lively horses and runs imperceptibly smooth! A spare motor and front drums will also be included with the car.

The car will be sold with a current WOF and registration including the plate ‘BUICK C’. The indicated mileage of 112,728 (112,728) purportedly is correct.

Apart from the power top, the big, bulbous Buick also boasts of a power-operated bench seat and hydraulic door windows. Back in '47, that was considered "state of the art!"

Focal point of the cockpit is the ocean-liner-sized, faux ivory, banjo-style steering wheel. The bejeweled horn button is bigger than a pie plate. Gently caress the chrome horn ring and you'll hear a sound reminiscent of the Queen Mary's fog horn.

The spotlight in the picture will not be sold with the vehicle nor will the headlight visors.

Today, a Buick Super convertible coupe such as this original Series 56-C is a rare sight. Only one other that is roadworthy is known to the writer in New Zealand.

“When better automobiles are built BUICK will build them.” Thus went the company's advertising jingle for decades; after owning and driving this fabulous classic, I fully subscribe to this truism.

$68,000

Can be viewed in Auckland

Contact owner on 021 509 596 or Email

15 June 07