Vehicle Description
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.
