Buick Series 90 Classic Cars for Sale

History of the Buick Series 90

Introduced during the 1930s, the Buick Series 90 was positioned as the brand's top-of-the-line model, serving as the flagship until the Second World War. Buick targeted affluent clientele looking for full-size, stately vehicles with smooth power delivery and a taste for detailed craftsmanship. The Series 90's long wheelbase, substantial engine, and luxury-focused features became synonymous with the best Buick had to offer. After 1942, the "Limited" badge continued to signify Buick's top luxury trim level on selected models, a direct legacy of the original Series 90 philosophy.

Model History

The Series 90 can claim roots in earlier large-displacement Buicks, evolving into the Limited line from 1936-1942 and briefly returning as a one-year-only model in 1958. Predecessors include older eight-cylinder Buicks, which lacked the technological and stylistic refinements seen in the Series 90. Its successors carried forward the 'Limited' ethos, representing the highest level of comfort, space, and status in the Buick lineup.

Highlights of the Buick Series 90

The Series 90 distinguished itself with a massive 5.7-litre straight-eight engine, generating 104 hp—exceptional output for its era. The 2+2 seating arrangement with a folding rumble seat, removable side windows, and two-tone paint options underlined its attention to driver and passenger experience. Features like the golf bag compartment, double spare wheels, and folding windscreen hint at the highly individual character of this model, catering to luxury and versatility. Demand for the Series 90 matches its supply, both accounting for 100% among Buicks of this generation in our current marketplace, reflecting focused collector interest within the brand's classic range.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The 1938–1942 Buick Limiteds are especially recognised among Series 90 vehicles for their length, advanced chassis, and high level of equipment. The single-year 1958 Buick Limited revived the halo position in the line-up, commemorating GM’s 50th anniversary and highlighting technical and stylistic peaks of the time.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

No specific weak spots have been reported for the Series 90 in Classic Trader’s listings. Nevertheless, buyers should scrutinise the complex straight-eight engine for regular oil leaks, assess the electrical system for ageing wiring, and check the convertible roof for fabric and mechanism condition. Given the rarity of certain trim parts, sourcing correct spares can represent a challenge, particularly for unique details like the golf bag compartment and rare colour trims.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The 5.7-litre straight-eight delivers effortless cruising power, underpinned by the torque-rich nature of the engine and a smooth-shifting three-speed manual gearbox. The suspension and chassis setup result in a composed ride, characteristic of pre-war luxury cars. Steering is weighty at low speeds due to the large dimensions, but the car rewards with a stable, cushioned experience at cruising velocity. Notable models in the Series 90 line include convertibles with fabric roofs and removable side windows, dual side-mounted spares, and those with custom coachwork added by US or European specialists. The Club Sedan and Limousine variants deliver especially generous rear seating and luggage arrangements, highlighting the model’s versatility.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

The Series 90’s cabin is defined by expansive proportions and period features, such as the 2+2 seating with a practical rumble seat, plush trimmings, detachable side glass, and a signature fabric top. Externally, sweeping lines, sweeping fenders, spear-shaped chrome accents, prominent wire wheels, dual spares, and whitewall tyres underline its 1930s luxury expression. Two-tone finishes and period-correct accessories like fog lamps and a golf bag compartment contribute further to its bespoke character.

Other Noteworthy Features

Custom coachwork was available for the Series 90, with body options including closed sedans, open convertibles, and chauffeur-driven limousines. These variations allowed for tailored luxury at the time, catering to business leaders and high society requirements.

Summary

The Buick Series 90 stands as a monument to 1930s American engineering and luxury. Its powerful straight-eight, deluxe cabin, and intricate design solutions set benchmarks for status-oriented vehicles of its era and played a central role in cementing Buick's prestige market position.