Chassis No. 15240141

Body No. 5828

Buick introduced the fifth generation of its venerable Roadmaster in 1949. The new design was slightly smaller than the 1948 model and impressively modern in design, with a large two-piece curved windshield and fenders blended smoothly into the torpedo-shaped body. Under the hood was a smooth-running overhead-valve straight-eight engine, producing 152 hp. This impressive vehicle was visually distinguished by Buick's first "ventiports," with four rather than the three used on lower-level Buick models.

Several body styles were offered, the most stylish and exclusive being the convertible, of which 8,244 examples were produced. Survivors are prized as some of the best-looking and nicest-driving American road automobiles of the early postwar era.

The convertible offered here received a meticulous restoration in Sequoia Cream with red interior, the same color scheme as on the 1949 Roadmaster convertible that enjoyed a starring role in the classic film, Rain Man, alongside Dustin Hoffman and Tom Cruise. Since completion of its restoration, the car has been well-kept in private collections, and remains in immaculate condition from stem to stern, with all of the finishes beautifully preserved inside, out and under the hood. Soft leather upholstery and the equipment of heater/defroster, power windows, power top, fog lights, and Dynaflow transmission all add to the experience of luxury, while yellow wheels with chrome covers and wide whitewall tires complete the authentic appearance. The car is offered from an owner who takes pride in the meticulous upkeep of his automobiles, and is thoroughly pleasing in every important regard. Accompanying the car is an original "Silent-Lubricator Valve Pad" as well as a full-size spare and Stayfast top boot.

Roadmaster convertibles of 1949 can be found but are seldom finished and presented to such a superb, concours-quality level. This is almost certainly the finest available example of this most desirable and attractive model, suitable for the finest collection of American convertibles.