Chassis No.
14862969
| Hershey, Pennsylvania
Model 76-S. 150 bhp, 320 cu. in. “Fireball Dynaflash” inline eight-cylinder engine, “Dynaflow” torque converter automatic transmission, independent front suspension with coil springs, live rear axle with coil springs, and four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes. Wheelbase: 129 in.
Buick styling pretty much stayed put for 1948, short of minor trim changes from the previous year. Big news for Buick was Dynaflow, its first automatic transmission. A $244 option on Roadmasters like this Sedanet, it used a torque converter developed by Buick during the war while producing the Hell-Cat tank destroyer. With Dynaflow, the 320-cubic inch straight-eight came with six extra horsepower for a total of 150.
Dynaflow was perhaps one of the most significant automotive developments of the 1940s. It appeared as an option only on Roadmasters this year, but the demand for the new torque converter type of transmission was so great that production facilities were at first doubled, then tripled, and finally quadrupled to satisfy the public’s thirst for the new convenience. Within two years, 85 percent of all Buicks were equipped as such.
The Roadmaster Sedanet was given model number 76-S and with a base price of $2,618, it had a production run of 18,537 units. All told, Buick sold 81,090 Roadmasters with a total production of 229,718 cars; good enough for 4th place in the industry. At 129 inches, Roadmasters also rode the biggest wheelbase of all Buicks—fitting for the marque’s top of the line.
This Buick is finished in a two-tone exterior with a contrasting cloth interior, and though showing evidence of some use, it is nicely detailed underhood and presents well. It is nicely optioned with the aforementioned Dynaflow, which makes for easy touring and cruising. Other extras include auxiliary driving lights, dual outside spotlights, whitewall tires, clock, deluxe heater, and Sonomatic radio. A 1948 owner’s manual and diagnostic guide are also included.
This Roadmaster Sedanet has been nicely cared for while in the possession of the consignor and has been stored in a climate-controlled facility. It has been used sparingly though started regularly and recently serviced. Within the last two months, the consignor has installed a new old-stock fuel tank and just prior to being offered for sale, a correct-style battery. It is an older restoration that presents well and will serve perfectly as a high-quality driver ideal for local shows and cruise-ins.
