For Sale: 1911 Buick Model 19 in Saint Louis, Missouri

By 1911, Buick had firmly secured its position among America's leading automobile manufacturers, distinguished by its pioneering valve-in-head engine design and an unwavering commitment to mechanical integrity. While Henry Ford's Model T had all but monopolized the affordable car market, Buick aimed higher, positioning the Model 39 as a premium offering-a refined, powerful alternative for customers seeking more than simple transportation. At nearly three times the cost of a base-model Buick, the Model 39 was a bold declaration of sophistication and ambition, delivering engineering and elegance that exceeded expectations for its price point.
Built on an expansive 117-inch wheelbase, the Model 39 offered both visual presence and dynamic composure that placed it in rare company. Its torpedo-style open touring body was sleek and forward-looking, with proportions that emphasized both length and grace. Large 28-inch wooden artillery wheels shod in towering 36x4 pneumatic tires contributed to the ride comfort and gave the car an appropriately commanding stance. Brass trim, from the elegantly curved acetylene headlamps to the upright radiator shell, lent the car a distinctive visual identity, while the five-piece engine compartment added architectural structure to the design. Buyers could select from a variety of body styles-from intimate two-passenger runabouts to fully enclosed town cars-but the five-passenger touring configuration struck an ideal balance of luxury, versatility, and road presence.
Offered here is a rare and desirable 1911 Buick Model 39 Five-Passenger Touring, bearing chassis number 00699KA492. One of just 905 examples produced, this car exemplifies the upper echelon of early American touring automobiles. While specific details of its early ownership remain undocumented, it benefits from a high-quality older restoration that has settled gracefully with time. The presentation is both authentic and impressive, offering just the right balance of aged patina and refined character.
Finished in a rich, deep red that accentuates the flowing contours of its torpedo body, this Model 39 is complemented by gleaming brass fixtures that enhance its period charm without overwhelming the design. The tufted black leather upholstery is finely trimmed, showing careful attention to detail in both materials and construction. Wide bench seats offer generous space for five occupants, while thoughtful interior appointments-such as the low-set speedometer and polished wood trim-speak to Buick's commitment to both comfort and functionality. As expected for the era, the car is configured in right-hand drive, and thoughtful period touches abound, including the robust running boards fitted with a central tool compartment and dual side-mounted spare tires, which lend the car a more purposeful, touring-oriented appearance.
Beyond its impressive presentation, the Model 39 is mechanically sorted and highly usable. It has been proven on vintage driving tours, with recent servicing and a new set of tires ensuring continued reliability. Power comes from Buick's advanced 5.2-liter inline four-cylinder engine, a robust design rated at 48 horsepower-exceptional for the time. Mated to a three-speed manual transmission with external linkage, the drivetrain offers an engaging, tactile experience, with smooth power delivery and confident road manners that belie the car's age. Notably, this example features electric headlights in place of the original acetylene setup, a discreet modern upgrade that enhances usability for touring without compromising the car's period aesthetics. Additional features such as integrated turn signals further contribute to its roadworthiness while maintaining a cohesive, authentic look.
This Model 39 is more than just a handsome brass-era automobile-it is a representative of Buick's formative years, when the marque was establishing itself not only as a volume producer but as a credible maker of well-engineered luxury vehicles. Its rarity, authentic specification, and careful long-term stewardship make it a compelling choice for collectors focused on early American motorcars with genuine historic substance. Whether displayed at concours, exercised on vintage tours, or admired in a curated collection, this 1911 Buick delivers a compelling blend of elegance, usability, and historical significance. It remains a tangible link to an era when innovation and craftsmanship defined the American motoring landscape-and when Buick stood proudly at the forefront.


Offers welcome, trades considered.