1937 BUICK ROADMASTER Series 80 Model 81 F Formal Sedan
1937 BUICK ROADMASTER
Series 80 Model 81 F Formal Sedan
Body Style 37-4819F
Body # 397
VIN# 83286319
Frame # 3139131
This is a beautiful, top of the line, Concours condition, Buick Roadmaster Model 81 F Formal Sedan. This is a 4-door formal sedan of which only 452 were produced. This model was introduced in October 24 of 1936 with its longer look, pointed hood, head lights, and fender lights. This is the last year of the wide running boards and first year that the running board was used as an antenna for the radio. It is first year of the installation of the radio-speaker assembly in the center dash which was an engineering feat for the industry.
This Buick Roadmaster has been restored to factory specs and it is in Concours condition. The restorer has been restoring Buick cars since he was 18 years old (1948 Buick convertible) and he is a stickler for detail. This car was found in Palmdale, California, a desert town. The car was mostly complete with no rust, so it was collected up as a project car. This high desert California car was fully restored over a 5-year period and completed in 1988. The seller’s knowledge of Buicks and participation in the Buick club from an early age provided him with the resources to complete the car with all original parts. His network of small business shops allowed him to get the finest of craftsmen to complete his work with the best products available.
This is the last year of the time proven wood and steel construction of the body of the car. The original wood remains in the frame of the car. The wood in the doors was replaced with new Oak.
The interior of the car is nicely appointed with new upholstery as delivered from the factory. Stunning, Beford Cord and Mohair fabrics correct for the year utilized. All upholstery completed by a top-notch classic car upholsterer. The original radio is in working order as are all of the interior lights and clocks.
This formal sedan is powered by a 320 cubic inch overhead valve straight 8 engine that was completely rebuilt to factory specs during the restoration. It is an excellent rebuild by a professional and it quietly purrs like a kitten. Floor shift 3 speed transmission provides power to the rear wheels through a dry clutch. This car has innovative dual front and rear stabilization, center point steering, rigid girder type X frame with a 131-inch wheelbase. Stopping power supplied by four-wheel drum hydraulic brake assembly.
The dual side mount spare tires were an extra from the factory and it was the last year available. Spare tires are included. This is also the last year of the rear deck styling of the “trunk back”.
This car starts in a unique way with the key on, in neutral, just press on the accelerator! This Buick Roadmaster Model 81 F has successfully completed a 1000 break in miles. It has recently been serviced and it is ready for the next curator to enjoy many years into the future.
This super car is stored in a temperature-controlled garage at all times. The car was detailed just prior to these pictures which were taken in January of 2024. The 20 coats of Ditzler Double Deep Black Nitrous Cellulose lacquer paint make it impossible to get pictures without capturing the surrounding images in the mirror like finish!
When researching for this sale the editor of the Buick Roadmaster Model 81F registry stated that this car is the best Model 81F that he knows to exist, and he owns a restored 1927 Buick Model 81 F!
This 1937 Buick Model 81 F formal Sedan was awarded best of show at the 1990 Buick National show in Sacramento CA.
This restoration was managed by the current owner as a hobby project using the best of the best shops and materials back in the late 80’s when quality products and craftsmanship were available. He is known for superb work on all that he chooses to restore.
MILEAGE: 1014 miles showing on a working odometer which would indicate miles since restoration.
PAINT: This car received 20 coats of Ditzler Double Deep Black Nitrous Cellulose lacquer paint on top of a great base. Note that it shines with a mirror finish making it hard for the photographer to get out of the picture!
SHEET METAL: All original Sheetmetal to this car that was and is in great shape. Doors are well fit, and all lines are tight. All doors on this car were originally constructed of wood frames and then skinned with metal. The doors on this formal sedan were restored with new oak and then skinned during the restoration. That is why they close so securely with a great solid sound!
CHROME: Outstanding chrome work on all chrome parts by the owner of a chrome shop, Christian Plating, in The Los Angeles area that was a friend of the builder. You will not find better chrome application anywhere!
MECHANICAL: This formal sedan is in excellent mechanical condition. It starts easy, idles right out and is smooth through the gears. This is truly a luxury ride! The engine underwent a complete rebuild including pistons, rings, rod bearings, main bearings, rocker arms, etc. The transmission was also completely rebuilt as were all moving mechanical parts.
WHEELS & TIRES: Correct painted drop center steel rims with triple pin stripe, Chrome beauty rims and correct Buick script center cap.
Front tire is 750 X 16 with 5-inch white wall, Lester brand; serviceable.
Rear tire is 750 X 16 with 5-inch white wall, Lester brand; serviceable.
TITLE: Clear California Title and non-opted registration. Original 1937 California license plates registered to the car.
Engine # 1297591-2
Accessories:
1937 Buick sales brochure
Buick Shop Manual
Buick owners Handbook
Items of note; Accessories installed on the car:
Working clock in the glove box.
Park lights with correct glass installed on fenders.
Guide Trippe lights with bubble level.
Cloisonne Buick insignia on radiator shell.
Cloisonne Buick 8 emblem on radiator grill.
Slightly tinted glass separating driver from passenger in working condition.
All correct handles and accessories in the interior including the ashtrays. NO, the car has not been smoked in!
Original, Gold on Black 1937 California License plates.
Buick labeled water hose clamp at radiator.
Original Buick Buco glass tail/brake light.
PRICE: Offered in the range of $65,000 to $72,500 with a Buy Now of $85,000