1929 Buick 4-door sedan, Series 116, Model 27
Owner: Bernie and Janice Taulborg Collection
Original cost: $1,320.00 (Would cost $22,911.49 in 2022)
Number made: 44,345
Engine, etc.: Inline overhead valve six-cylinder; 239 cu. in., 94 h.p.; 116 in. wheelbase; 3,630 lbs.; 3-speed sliding transmission, four-wheel mechanical drum brakes
Buick was celebrating its silver anniversary in 1929, marking 25 years since the beginning of the Buick Motor Company.
In 1929, Buick had three new series, the 116, 121, and 129. They were available in 43 exterior colors and were the first cars entirely styled by General Motors’ Art and Colour Department. They were advertised as having “lightning-flash get-away and acceleration” and had “power for the steepest hill and longest run”. They were easy to park, steer, and drive and had “smoothness on every road”.
The new series numbers, the 116, 121, and 129, were based on wheel base measurements and replaced the older Standard and Master Six names. They were identical except for the wheelbases and engine sizes.
Major technical improvements on closed models were dual electric windshield wipers and side cowl ventilators. All models now had a standard mechanical fuel pump instead of a vacuum tank. This insured a proper fuel supply to the engine even under exceptional driving conditions including climbing long grades with the throttle wide open or running at high speeds for long distances.
Improvements to the frame included thicker steel with deeper cross sections and strengthened key suspension components. All engines were increased in displacement and power and steel-backed main bearings were used by Buick for the first time.
Side cowl ventilators were a new feature. They opened or closed with a touch of the foot. When open, a cooling flow of air flowed around the floor, a new luxury in motoring. Interiors of the 116 inch wheelbase models included adjustable front seats, ashtrays, and cigarette lighters as standard equipment. They included a new robe rail, new polished foot rest and “other fittings essential to good appearance and comfort.”
Options included front and rear bumpers, a clock, wide-spoke artillery wheels, wire wheels, step plates, spare tire with tube, cover, and lock, and disc wheels.
President of Buick in 1929 was Edward Thomas Strong.
Sources: Standard Catalog of American Cars, 1805 -1942. Beverly Rae Kimes, et al. 3rd ed. Krause Publications, 1996.
http://www.conceptcarz.com/z18969/Buick-Series-116.aspx
http://www.oldcarbrochures.com/static/NA/Buick/1929%20Buick/1929%20Buick%20Silver%20Anniversary%20Brochure/index1.html
https://www.in2013dollars.com/us/inflation/1929?amount=1320
