The Buick line for 1957 was truly outstanding, longer and lower, and with redesigned mechanicals and interiors with new materials. New heights in power and comfort were achieved throughout the year’s product lineup, but none more so than the flagship Roadmaster. With just 4,363 such convertibles built, and a $4,066 retail price, the Model 76C accounted for just over 1% of total Buick production for the model year. It is certainly logical that the few surviving examples are so revered today.

The known history of this particular Roadmaster Convertible begins with its acquisition by Art Wright of Art’s Antique and Classic Auto Services in 1988 in largely complete, intact but unrestored condition. Its factory colors of Garnet Red with a Black and White leather interior are clearly visible in pre-restoration photos. Before long, enthusiast Mike Kamen of Los Angeles purchased the project and commissioned Mr. Wright to perform a concours-level, frame-off restoration. Thoughtfully, Mr. Kamen added factory-style optional air-conditioning as well as Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels. The exterior was finished in the available two-tone color scheme of Garnet Red with Carlsbad Black sides – to stunning effect.

With the restoration, documented by 120 photographs, completed in 1992, the Roadmaster attended numerous concours d’elegance, first in Southern California, then further afield. The striking Convertible earned several Best of Show awards, and seldom, if ever, placed lower than First in Class. This Roadmaster also earned the prestigious Spirit of Buick award at the 1992 Buick Club of America Nationals in Kansas City. In addition to these show accolades, this Buick was the subject of a feature article in Cars & Parts magazine and was also illustrated in the popular book Cars of 1957.

In 2011, the ’57 was added to the consignor’s already impressive group of show-quality Buicks of the 1950s as one of the centerpieces. Over the past decade, the Roadmaster has received expert care and has been run and driven on a regular basis.

A standout in any collection, this proven show-stealing Buick Convertible would be equally comfortable devoting its next chapter to the show field or the open road, and with some enjoyable hours of detailing, possibly both.

*Please note that the VIN listed on the title for this vehicle contains a typographical error; the second character of the VIN is listed as a “0”, but is in fact a “D”.