The year 1953 was a watershed for the Buick division. Not only did it mark Buick’s golden anniversary, it also saw the advent of the proprietary V-8 engine, which later came to be known as the nailhead for its vertical valves. The engine was dramatically shorter, lower, lighter, and more powerful than the lauded Fireball straight eight that had been the company’s mainstay. The new engine, combined with Buick’s trademark Dynaflow transmission, proved to be a winning combination for the higher trim levels. Among the most memorable models for 1953 were the Rivieras, which included a handsome pillarless hardtop. At its introduction, the design was marketed as “stunningly smart.”

Atop Buick’s product line, in both style and price, was the Roadmaster, identifiable by its quad ventiports on the front fenders and chromed trim panels. This Roadmaster Riviera Hardtop was acquired by the consignor in 2013, and showed 3,041 miles when catalogued. A multiple award winner under its prior ownership, including a Senior Gold Award at the 2011 Buick Club of America Nationals in Danvers, Massachusetts, the Buick is finished in Mandarin Red with a complementary black top, and the colors are echoed inside for a very sophisticated look. The wheels are dressed in the proper but seldom-seen wire wheel covers, with Buick’s logo announcing the presence of its 188 hp V-8.

Loaded with style and appeal, this 1953 Buick Roadmaster Riviera Hardtop continues to present beautifully throughout, and it is poised to thrill its next caretaker with each passing mile.