144 hp, 320.2 cu. in. “Fireball” valve-in-head inline eight-cylinder engine, three-speed manual transmission, and four-wheel hydraulic brakes. Wheelbase: 129 in.

• First year for the Roadmaster Estate Wagon

• Buick’s top-of-the-line and most expensive model for 1947

• One of just 300 produced and four known to survive

• Ground-up restoration with wood body by Glenn Redding, of Ocala, Florida

Buick introduced its Estate Wagon model mid-year as part of the Super Series in 1940, reportedly at the urging of a wealthy lady who informed Buick management that the only reason she did not own one was that she required a station wagon—which they did not build. While it would remain available in lower lines for the next seven years, a “woodie” wagon was not offered in the most prestigious Roadmaster series until 1947, when such a car became available. Designated the Model 79, and at $3,249, the Hercules-bodied Roadmaster Estate Wagon was Buick’s most expensive car of the year, an ideal vehicle for summer homes or drives in the country. Accordingly, just 300 of these prestigious wagons were produced, and the example offered here is, according to the owner, one of only four restored examples known to exist today.

The wagon boasts a total ground-up restoration to original condition, completed four years ago, which included a new wood body by Glenn Redding, of Ocala, Florida. It is finished in a factory-correct Royal Maroon Metallic, which contrasts beautifully with the rich maple and mahogany exterior. The interior is a striking combination of red leather and Bedford cloth. Since restoration, the wagon has been invited to and shown at the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance in 2008 and the Glenmoor Gathering Concours d’Elegance in 2009.

Buick described the 1947 Roadmaster as the “Master of the Road…in Performance, Style, and Beauty,” and this spectacular Estate Wagon is no exception. With limited production when new and only four surviving examples known, it will be among the star attractions of any Buick Club of America or AACA meet at which it will appear in the new owner’s hands.