Buick Model 47 classic cars for sale

History of the Buick Model 47

The Buick Model 47 represents an era when American car engineering was progressing rapidly, focusing on innovative features and comfortable driving experiences. Released in the early 20th century, the Model 47 fit into Buick's strategy of offering reliable vehicles with refined engines and robust chassis, helping the brand to distinguish itself in the pre-war automotive market. It was produced during a time when Buick was widely recognised for its solid build quality and for employing overhead valve engines.

Model history

Within the Buick line-up, the Model 47 was part of a naming convention that denoted body style and mechanical specification. It shared much of its core engineering with contemporary Buicks, while its unique designation often indicated a specific body type. Successor and predecessor models adopted incremental changes in chassis dynamics and styling, following market trends of the era and Buick's own technological advancements.

Highlights of the Buick Model 47

The Model 47's distinction lies in its period-correct mechanical layout, robust straight-six or straight-eight engines, and substantial craftsmanship in both the bodywork and interior. Surviving examples are often praised for their authenticity, ease of maintenance compared to some other contemporaries, and characteristic American driving dynamics of the era.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

Due to its naming convention and time of production, the Buick Model 47 does not have widely recorded special editions. However, certain years or body configurations may be rarer due to limited production volumes or surviving numbers, making specific variants particularly appealing to discerning collectors.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

While the Model 47 was robustly engineered, buyers should inspect for age-related wear in drivetrain and suspension components, as well as possible corrosion in structural areas. Sourcing original parts may require specialist networks, especially for trim pieces unique to certain production years. Engine internals remain serviceable due to Buick’s widespread period engineering, but professional assessment is advisable before purchase.

Engine, Performance and Handling

The Model 47’s straight-six or straight-eight provides smooth acceleration, with ample torque spread for the time. The three-speed manual gearbox offers direct engagement. Period suspension setup means a comfortable—albeit soft—ride. Compared to other cars of its generation, the Model 47 delivers stable road manners and moderate braking, with all controls requiring physical input typical of pre-war engineering. Among classic Buicks, the Model 47 distinguishes itself with a combination of authentic driving experience and period-specific engineering details, making it a point of reference for early American automotive design.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Model 47 was known for its solid wood and steel bodies, often featuring flowing fender lines and upright grilles matched to the era’s characteristic large headlamps. Interiors typically included bench seating trimmed in mohair or leather, ornate dash instrumentation, and period-correct controls. Customisation was possible at the time of order, so some surviving examples boast unique colour or trim options, including two-tone paint schemes and rare accessories such as exterior sun visors or wood inlay details.

Other relevant features

Original documentation and provenance increase the historical appeal of surviving Model 47s. Enthusiasts value period-correct upgrades, such as accessory horns or period luggage, adding further authenticity to the vehicle’s character.

Summary

The Buick Model 47 stands as a benchmark of American pre-war engineering, recognised for its mechanical robustness and representative styling of its era. With all available listings on our platform corresponding directly to this model, it has a central presence in Buick’s classic segment and offers a rewarding ownership experience for enthusiasts and collectors alike.