Some cars are genuine mystery machines, posing as many questions as they answer. Such is the case with this 1949 Buick Roadmaster Riviera. The seller purchased the vehicle for his aging father, but he has reached the point where further work is beyond his physical ability. However, developments during the last decade in their care suggest it may be a pre-production example. The Rivera has undergone many changes, although its originality makes a faithful restoration viable. The Buick is listed here on eBay in Fountain Valley, California. Bidding sits below the reserve at $11,806.

Buick followed the lead of many manufacturers, releasing its first major post-war vehicle update in 1949. The Roadmaster was one of the rare occasions where life imitated art, with the distinctive and iconic VentiPorts making their first appearance on a Buick model. The company’s Design Chief, Ned Nickles, fitted illuminated versions as an aftermarket addition to his 1948 Roadmaster. One senior manager was so impressed by the appearance that VentiPorts, in non-illuminated form, became standard fare in 1949. The seller purchased this Riviera over a decade ago as a project for his father. The car comes with a mysterious history, having only one previous owner. They purchased the car for special occasions, which may account for the plausible claim of 26,000 genuine miles. It has undergone several color changes, with the original combination of Sand Gray Metallic and Regency Blue Metallic hiding below the existing Black and Green. The seller describes the presentation as a “good 15-footer,” confirming that a close inspection reveals checking and general deterioration. They sent the Riviera to a paint shop for what they believed were rust repairs, but this proved to be nothing more than shrinkage due to the multiple layers of paint. The Buick is rust-free, with only mild surface corrosion on its underside. Therefore, stripping the vehicle to bare metal as part of a high-end restoration is viable. As we delve deeper, some readers will agree that could be the best course of action. The trim looks excellent, but some glass shows edge deterioration and cracks.

The Riviera came into the seller’s possession surrounded by aggravation. The original owner’s son sold it to the current owners without permission, and unraveling the problem required diplomacy and tact. The car had sat at a paint shop for years, awaiting a refresh when the original owner died. The Riviera was eventually retrieved partially dismantled, with the vehicle bolted back together before finding its current home. Some items disappeared while at the shop, including the door trims. This is a shame because the interior is, otherwise, complete. The seats, particularly the upper back seat, exhibit deterioration due to UV exposure. There are no gaping holes, so they are serviceable. The carpet is believed to be original, and like the seats, it hasn’t developed any significant problems justifying immediate replacement. The bright trim is pitted but presentable, and the dash looks extremely nice. The hydraulic windows and seat function, although slow window operation may indicate a system flush or pump rebuild is required. There are no aftermarket additions, with the car’s luxury credentials emphasized by the factory radio.

Two significant items carried over from the previous model to the 1949 Roadmaser range were the 320ci “Fireball” straight-eight engine and two-speed Dynaflow transmission. A V8 powerplant was a few years away, although this engine’s ability to develop 150hp and 280 ft/lbs of torque provided respectable performance. This is where the car’s story becomes slightly clouded. It retains its original engine, transmission, and six-volt electrical system. The seller’s father pulled the engine a few years ago to undertake a reseal and detailing. The engine has never been dismantled or rebuilt, but the generator, starter, and water pump received a refresh. The engine mounts required replacement, and that is where the Riviera’s story became fascinating. The engine mounts and some parts provide a clue because when they needed replacement, a classic Buick specialist confirmed them to be 1948 components. The original owner’s daughter emphasized that her father took delivery of the Buick in February 1949, which was before these cars hit showroom floors. She believes it is a pre-production vehicle, which would help explain the discrepancies. It requires detective work to uncover the truth and could be a fascinating sidebar that allows the Riviera to stand out. The car has seen virtually no use in the last decade and only limited use and years of inactivity while under the original owner’s care. That makes the claim of 26,000 genuine miles seem plausible. The car runs and drives, but replacing the ancient tires and performing a thorough inspection is imperative before the winning bidder hits the road.

Buick only produced 4,314 examples of the Roadmaster Rivera Hardtop in 1949, making these cars pretty rare. It is unknown how many survive, but if recent market listings are an accurate guide, very few are left on our roads. This car has what appears to be a fascinating history, and a faithful restoration should yield a value of around $50,000. It will be interesting to gauge your feedback and whether you believe the car’s history seems plausible. Does that make this classic one you would consider pursuing further?