For Sale: 1940 Buick Limited in Saugatuck, Michigan

1940 Buick 81C "Flatback" Limited 4-Door Sport Phaeton

RARE HISTORIC VEHICLE - USED BY GANGBUSTER THOMAS DEWEY TO CAMPAIGN AGAINST HARRY TRUMAN
(Includes Original Signed Photo of Dewey in the Car)

Vehicle Details:

Year: 1940

Make: Buick

Model: 81C Limited 4-Door Sport Phaeton

VIN: 13781634

Engine Stamping: 8-3928548 (Original to Car)

Production Rarity: 1 of approximately 14 known to still exist

Possibly The Last U.S. Model 81C Produced: Body Number 230 of 250 total (20 were built for export)

Original Paint Color: Sequoia Cream (Yellow) - Currently Repainted in Black

Original Trim: Black Leather (Trim No. 858)

Comes With Extra Parts Seen In Pictures Including a Transmission

Contact Us By Call or Text Anytime!! Chicago Car Club - 312-420-3696

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ENGINE STAMPING - 8-3928548 Original to Car

Trim Tag Decode:

1940 MOD. - 81C
Style No. - 40-4829 - Limited 4 Door Sport Phaeton
Body No. 230 - 230th Car Built of 250 Total with 20 built for export.
Trim No. - 858 - Black Leather
Paint No. - 549 - Sequoia Cream (Repainted in Black)

Historical Significance:
This 1940 Buick 81C Limited Phaeton is more than just a rare classic-it's a piece of American history. Used by Thomas Dewey during his campaign against Harry Truman, this car is featured in an original 17" x 14" photo with Dewey himself riding in it through the 9th Ward. The photo, which is included in the sale, is also signed by Dewey (etched into the image). There is no doubt that this is the car in the photo, complete with its original fender skirts, side mounts, and surviving interior.

About Thomas Dewey:
A relentless prosecutor and political leader, Thomas Dewey was instrumental in taking down organized crime in 1930s New York. He successfully prosecuted infamous mobsters such as Lucky Luciano and Dutch Schultz, achieving 72 convictions out of 73 cases. His reputation as a fearless "gangbuster" propelled him into politics, where he served as New York's district attorney and later as governor from 1942 to 1955. Though he lost the 1948 presidential election to Harry Truman, he remained a respected figure in law enforcement and governance. In 1968, President Nixon even offered him a Supreme Court nomination, which he declined. Dewey's impact on American justice and politics remains significant to this day.

Mechanical Condition:

Runs and Drives Well

Converted to a 12-Volt System

Shifts Nicely and Tracks Straight on the Road

Brakes Are Functional

Lights Are Operational

Runs Smoothly on Its Own Fuel Supply

Exterior and Underside Condition:

Largely Original and Solid Exterior with Some Blemishes

Super Solid Underside

Rare Bumper Attachments and Fender Skirts

Some Rust Repair in the Trunk Area (Previously Done in Fiberglass)

About the 1940 Buick 81C Model:

The 81C Limited 4-Door Convertible Phaeton was Buick's largest convertible in 1940, built on a massive 133-inch wheelbase and weighing 4,540 lbs. It was powered by Buick's 320 CID 'Dynaflash' inline eight-cylinder engine, producing 141 horsepower. The transmission is a three-speed manual. The original price in 1940 was $1,952, and production was limited to just 250 units, including 20 built for export. This rare Buick was designed as a luxury vehicle and was one of the most exclusive models of its time.

Final Thoughts:

This is an incredible opportunity to own a rare, historically significant classic car with direct ties to one of the most pivotal political campaigns of the 20th century. Whether you choose to restore it to its original grandeur or preserve its unique patina and history, this Buick 81C Limited Phaeton is a fantastic addition to any collection. Don't miss out on this one-of-a-kind piece of American history!

Contact Us By Call or Text Anytime!! Chicago Car Club - 312-420-3696

PLEASE BE SURE TO WATCH OUR DETAILED YOUTUBE VIDEO!