This might look like a true Brass Era roadster, but under the surface, it’s something a bit more accessible, and that’s part of the appeal. Built in the 1980s using a 1929 Buick factory drivetrain, this custom-bodied Buick was designed to resemble a 1911–1912 brass car, complete with vintage lighting and period-correct touches. It’s now offered here on eBay at no reserve and located in the United States.
The drivetrain consists of a 1929 Buick inline-six engine, 3-speed manual transmission, and stock frame, suspension, brakes, and 6-volt electrical system. The car sits on 20-inch wood artillery wheels and retains much of its original mechanical layout. Brass components—including the radiator surround, headlights, cowl lamps, taillight, and even some gauges, appear to be authentic pieces from the 1910s and ’20s, adding a real sense of age and charm.
The body is finished in pearl white with red accent stripes, and while the exact origins of the body are unknown, it’s believed to have been hand-built by a known Buick expert back in the day. The builder’s initials are reportedly still present on the radiator grille. The result is a convincing vintage-style racer or showpiece that turns heads whether it’s running or not.
The current owner purchased the car in 2013, and at that time, it was in running condition and looked great. A few years later, he began a minor restoration on the woodwork—specifically the dash, floorboards, and rear platform. Unfortunately, the project stalled after only partial work on the dash, and the car has been in storage ever since. It hasn’t run since 2014, but the drivetrain remains untouched, the brakes are free, and the tires still hold air.
The car has been stored indoors throughout its life and was recently moved to a private garage, where it’s remained dry and protected. The seller notes that the Buick will need to be trailered, and the buyer will be responsible for transportation.
While not an original brass-era car, this custom roadster offers the look and feel of one at a fraction of the cost—and with more accessible mechanicals. It’s an eye-catching project that’s just a weekend or two away from being back on the road.
Would you finish the woodwork and drive it, or keep it as a static showpiece?
Outstanding find, Elizabeth! I’m not sure I’d do anything additionally cosmetically, just put some effort into getting this custom bodied roadster running and drive it around on the weekends. Love that the trunk is, a trunk!
The bent headlight seems to justify the interest,,bupkis. I hate to be crass, but who is going to want this today? 96 viewers, 7 bids, $2950,,,but $50 grand for some crappy Mustang, I swear, I give up,,why even bother.
That crappy Mustang is going to start every time and not inspire terror when stepping on the brakes, not that this flivver could get up to highway speeds.
Exactly, it seems like many if not most makes and models from the 1940’s and earlier are dropping dramatically in value. It’s more than people aging out of the hobby, it’s their brakes, suspensions, lack of power and amenities, they aren’t compelling as drivers. That starts changing in the 1950’s with most “mainstream models” from the 1960’s are capable in the in general. What would be surprising is if the bidding were strong rather than the general disinterest.
Steve R
Man, we aren’t even in the same universe, a common affliction today. Since arguing with you gains nothing, I will say this car could do 75 mph, which is mighty fast for a depression era car. It saddens me to think your crappy Mustang is even in the same league as this magnificent full classic, and I guess I’ll take that to my grave. BTW, I’ve experienced V8 Fox bodied Mustang terror first hand, so don’t tell me.
You would have total, unimpeachable car guy credibility if you bought this and could keep it running like a top. Plus it wouldn’t see another at an event. Looks like fun to me
I think what bothers people like me & you are the folks who seem gleeful at the passage of time & aging out of a certain segment. The folks who make money selling dubiously refurbished Camaros/Chevelles/whatever from the auction show era & so are unfazed by another car from the prewar era going unloved.
This car reminds me of the movie ….Chitty-Chitty-Bang-Bang.
I’m sure it will do 75 Howard, but you better dye those seats brown and Scotchguard them.
Comparing this car to a middle aged Mustang is ridiculous. Talk about apples and oranges! This is a one-off creation by an obviously talented craftsman. The Mustang is a ubiquitous, built for the masses creation from Dearborn. The Mustang can do things the Buick can’t, but it will NEVER be what the Buick is. I applaud the builder of the Buick for “putting himself out there”, and creating, frankly, a masterpiece.
Some stock models of ‘29 Buicks could achieve 75mph, and more. It’s sad that we’ve become a bunch of wimps who would need a diaper to drive a vintage car 75 mph.
In 1958, my one owner, low mileage 1930 Studebaker Dictator 6 would easily cruise at 50 mph. Having comparable specifications to a ’29 Buick, I suspect that it was capable of 60+mph (factory modified Studebakers did compete at the Indy 500 back in the day). Never tried to push it faster as mechanical brakes and skinny 5.50 X 19 tires did little to instill confidence in its stopping ability.
Back in 29 how many miles of paved intercity road were there? Solid axles and mecjhanical drum brakes all around, and four rock hard tires with a footprint smaller than a Harley’s. I’ll pass.
Reminds me of the TV show Bearcats! that aired on CBS in 1971 with Rod Taylor and Dennis Cole. Just add a monocle windshield, a brass spotlight, and you’d have a pretty close tribute to a Stutz Bearcat. CBS built 3 Bearcat look alikes for the show. All were powered by a Ford 300 cube 6 mated to a C-6 automatic tranny. And if memory serves me, George Barris built them. It was a crying shame the show was cancelled mid
season, but that’s show biz!
LOOKS like FUN! But not for a rainy day.
SOLD for $6,455.