Location: Santa Monica, California

$89,100 USD | Sold

• 322-cid, 188-hp V-8 engine
• Two-speed automatic transmission
• One of an estimated 670 manufactured
• Power windows, brakes and steering
• AM/FM radio
• Very well finished wood work and brightwork
• First year for the “Nailhead” engine
• Wide whitewall tires

A period ad of the Estate Wagon states that “this is the magnificent motorcar that makes the most of country living and town travel.” The year 1953 would mark the celebration of Buicks 50th anniversary. On June 13, 1953 Buick manufactured its seven-millionth car.

From the factory the Estate Wagons were built with very well-picked wood and dressed to compete with the best cars on the market. The interiors were fitted with Roxpoint nylon carpet; and the rear of the car had over 6-feet of storage in length and almost 5-feet from side to side when the back seat was folded down. A source states that there were only 670 of these wagons manufactured in 1953, making this a very rare and desirable Buick.

Leading up to the 1953 model year Buick had been using the straight eight-cylinder engine for 16 years, while some manufactures were starting to use V-8 engines, so Buick needed to update. In 1953 Buick introduced what they would call the “nailhead” that would have a displacement of 322-cid, or 5.3-liters. This engine proved itself to be a worthy successor with 188-hp, which was almost 11-percent more powerful than its predecessor.

The 1953 Buick offered here has been wonderfully restored and features blue paintwork that is highlighted by excellent brightwork and nicely finished wood work. The six-passenger interior is finished elegantly in red and shows very well. The interior is also tailored with power windows and an AM/FM radio. Under the hood is the 322-cid, 188-hp V-8 engine that is paired with a two-speed automatic transmission. Other features found on this wagon are power steering, power brakes and wide whitewall tires.

https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/ca16/lots/r0235-1953-buick-roadmaster/