For 1949, the Buick Super and Roadmaster Series both shared the all-new C-body with revised roof and body lines, where the top front fender edge was raised as it carried down the body and met with the top of the rear fenders. Parking lamps were set on the top of the front fenders, similar to Buick models from the early 1940s, while “Super” script was mounted on the front fenders above the chrome trim molding that carried the entire length of the body.

Three chromed VentiPorts distinguished the short-wheelbase Super Series 50 from the Roadmaster. Initially advertised in company brochures as providing added ventilation to the engine compartment, VentiPorts were in all reality were inspired by the customizing efforts of Buick Styling chief Ned Nickles on his own 1948 Roadmaster hood. These replicated the appearance of an engine exhaust stack on fighter planes. Harlow Curtice, executive vice president and future president of GM, also appreciated how this look—coupled with the bombsight hood ornament—led customers’ imagination to take flight and ordered VentiPorts to be installed on all Supers and Roadmasters in 1949. These became a Buick design mainstay still featured on current models.

Powered by a 248-cubic-inch overhead-valve Fireball straight-eight engine, this example was ordered with the optional Dynaflow transmission—gaining the added benefit of higher engine compression and horsepower as a result. Cloth interiors were standard on all Super models except for the Model 56C Super convertibles, which were trimmed in leather and leatherette and featured a power top, seat and windows.

In current ownership since the 1980s, the consignor described a favorite memory being paid a hefty sum to rent this Buick as a backup screen car for the 1988 Oscar winning film Rain Man. Ultimately, it was not used in any actual filming, as the director decided on Sequoia Cream for his desired exterior paint scheme and the owner refused to repaint his factory black car.

After the consignor decided it was time to restore his prized Buick, he brought the car to Black Horse Garage in Bridgeport, Connecticut for a two-year frame-off nut-and-bolt restoration completed last year at a reported six-figure cost. It was refinished to a show-quality standard in its highly desirable original factory color combination of Carlsbad Black over Red leather with a black convertible top.

Whether enjoying it top down on the open road as intended or debuting this handsome Buick on the show field for the very first time, this Super Convertible exemplifies what Buick style and quality was all about in 1949.