1938 Buick Opera Coupe (Model 42SC) – All-Steel Custom Pro-Touring Build, Frame-Off Restored
Offered here is a striking and highly engineered 1938 Buick Opera Coupe, Model 42SC—an all-original, uncut steel body transformed into a thoughtfully executed pro-touring machine. Completed approximately 12 years ago, this comprehensive frame-off restoration and custom build blends prewar Buick elegance with modern performance, drivability, and safety. The result is a classic that retains its unmistakable Art-Deco presence while performing with contemporary confidence.
Chassis & Structure
A hand-fabricated chassis was constructed from the cowl forward using 1-inch plate steel, MIG-welded, honeycombed, and boxed for rigidity. The center section retains original 1938 frame material, while the rear half is again reinforced with fabricated plate steel construction. The build incorporates a Pro-Street–style 4-link rear suspension with track bar and approximately 6 inches of ground clearance.
RideTech custom adjustable coilovers provide tunable ride quality, complemented by a custom front anti-sway bar. Hand-built inner wheel housings protect the original fenders, while skid plating safeguards the oil pan and undercarriage. Weight distribution is exceptionally balanced at 3,290 pounds total, measured within 5 pounds across all four corners.
Steering, Brakes & Driveline
Steering is via a Lincoln-based custom power rack-and-pinion system with stainless linkage for precision feel. The rear axle is a Ford 9-inch fitted with a Truetrac limited-slip differential, aluminum center section, and 3.70:1 gearing. Four-wheel Wilwood disc brakes—6-piston front and 4-piston rear, drilled and slotted—deliver modern stopping power.
A custom driveshaft connects to a performance-built 700R4 automatic transmission featuring hardened internals, NASCAR-spec clutches, and a 2,400–2,600 rpm stall converter.
Engine & Performance
Power comes from a balanced and blueprinted 383-ci stroker V8 producing approximately 500 horsepower. The engine features:
The drivetrain has fewer than 1,000 miles since rebuild. Cooling is managed by a Walker four-row radiator, internal transmission cooler, and Hurricane fan with shroud.
Exhaust is fully stainless MagnaFlow, routed cleanly through the frame.
Wheels & Tires
Exterior
The body remains original steel and unmodified structurally, with minimal filler and no rust or dents reported. The original front bumper has been tastefully Frenched (the original unit is included in excellent condition), while the rear bumper remains installed. Grille inserts have been rechromed, with an additional painted set included.
Original stainless trim, handles, and rings remain intact. Running boards retain their factory wood-style appearance. Paint presents well overall, with minor stone chips and a small blister noted on the roof.
Glass & Lighting
Wind wings have been replaced with custom one-piece sliding electric windows. All glass is tempered with a bronze tint. Original headlights were professionally resilvered and upgraded with halogen illumination.
Interior
The interior was fully custom-crafted for comfort and refinement while preserving the factory dashboard architecture:
Driving Experience
This Buick was built to be driven. With modern suspension geometry, balanced weight distribution, and strong V8 power, it delivers performance comparable to a modern sports coupe while maintaining unmistakable prewar styling. It accelerates effortlessly, cruises comfortably, and is capable of spirited use—including autocross or touring events.
A distinctive blend of preservation and innovation, this 1938 Buick Opera Coupe offers the rarity of an all-steel prewar body combined with the road manners and reliability of a contemporary performance car—an uncommon opportunity for collectors seeking something both visually iconic and genuinely usable.
