1938 Buick MODEL 80C ROADMASTER

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The Buick Model 80C Roadmaster of 1938 was a superior American automobile produced during a time of great automotive innovation. With this car, Buick had created something that was far beyond the ordinary and demonstrated their exceptional engineering prowess. The Model 80C Roadmaster featured a number of unique technical advancements, including new suspension and braking systems, as well as a more powerful engine, all of which contributed to making the car one of the most advanced, desirable, and luxurious cars of its time.

One of the most notable technical features of the 1938 Buick Model 80C Roadmaster was its suspension system. The car featured a new knee-action suspension system, making it one of the first American cars to do so. This system allowed for better handling and more comfortable driving and improved the car's performance on rough roads, greatly enhancing the driving experience for the car's occupants.

In terms of the engine, the Buick Model 80C Roadmaster's straight-eight OHV engine was a technical masterpiece. The engine boasted 141 horsepower and an impressive 263 ft-lbs of torque, making it one of the most powerful engines of its era. This powerful engine was paired with a three-speed manual transmission or a three-speed automatic transmission, which had been introduced just a year earlier. The automatic transmission was a hydraulic design, making it one of the first of its kind to be installed in a passenger car, adding to the car's technical innovation.

Another technical innovation that was featured on the 1938 Buick Model 80C Roadmaster was the introduction of hydraulic drum brakes. This was a revolutionary feature at the time, as most civilian cars only had mechanical drum brakes. The hydraulic system provided greatly improved stopping power, making the car safer and more reliable.

The Buick Model 80C Roadmaster also featured a variety of other technical advancements that were designed to enhance the car's luxury and comfort. These included power windows and locks, a luxurious leather interior, and a built-in radio. The car also featured an early form of air conditioning, known as the "Kool Kooshion," which was a refrigerated cooling system that was mounted under the car’s dashboard, providing cool air to the car's occupants.

In summary, the 1938 Buick Model Roadmaster 80C was a notable car for its technical innovations and the numerous advancements that had been included. This car was designed to be the epitome of luxury and performance during its time, and it did not disappoint. Buick had once again proven that they were among the most advanced and innovative automotive manufacturers of their time, and the Model 80C Roadmaster remains a classic and iconic car in automotive history.

Milestones

- The Buick Model 80C Roadmaster was introduced in 1938 as the company's top-of-the-line model, positioned above the Century and Special models. - The Roadmaster was powered by a 320 cubic inch “Fireball” straight-eight engine, producing 141 horsepower and 276 lb-ft of torque. - The Roadmaster featured a longer wheelbase than its sibling models, measuring 127 inches, providing a more spacious cabin and better ride comfort. - The Roadmaster also boasted a number of notable features including centralized chassis lubrication, automatic choke, and a dual-rear hydraulic brake system. - Stylistically, the Roadmaster featured a sleeker, more streamlined body design, including Buick’s signature chrome grille and swooping fenders. - The Roadmaster was produced in both coupe and sedan body styles, with the latter featuring a unique “Trunkback” style. - Overall, the 1938 Buick Model 80C Roadmaster is widely recognized as one of the most iconic and desirable classic cars of the era, representing a pinnacle of both style and engineering excellence.


Technical

- Engine: Straight-eight 320-cubic-inch, overhead valve, producing 141 horsepower - Transmission: Synchromesh three-speed manual - Suspension: Independent front suspension, semi-floating rear axle with leaf springs and tube shocks - Brakes: Four-wheel hydraulic drum brakes - Dimensions: Length- 216.5 inches, Width- 78.2 inches, Height- 69 inches, Wheelbase- 141 inches - Weight: 4,245 pounds - Fuel Tank: 20 gallons - Top Speed: 90 mph - Fuel Efficiency: 12-15 mpg - Body Style: Convertible or two-door sedan - Price: $1,694 for the convertible and $1,708 for the sedan - Production: Only 3,005 units were produced in 1938.
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