Discovering a Forgotten Treasure: 1938 Buick Comes Out Of The Barn After 30 Years, All-Original Survivor

The allure of uncovering a long-forgotten relic can ignite the passion of any vintage car enthusiast. The excitement of stumbling upon a “barn find”—vehicles that have been hidden away and left untouched for decades—is unmatched, especially when the car in question is a classic like the 1938 Buick. This particular Buick’s emergence from a 30-year slumber in an old repair shop marks not just the rediscovery of a rare automobile but also the revival of a piece of automotive history.

The 1938 Buick was a significant model during its time, representing the epitome of style and engineering. Introduced as part of Buick’s Special line in 1936, this model offered a more affordable alternative to the brand’s luxurious offerings, without compromising on the innovation or the elegance associated with Buick.

The Discovery

The story of this 1938 Buick is as poignant as it is fascinating. Initially undertaken as a restoration project by a father-son duo, the car was meant to be brought back to its original glory. However, after the father passed away, the son, overwhelmed by the loss, couldn’t find the motivation to continue their shared dream. As a result, the car remained stored away in the repair shop, gathering dust and waiting for a new chapter to begin.

Three years later, in the early 1990s, the son decided it was time to part with the Buick, allowing it to see the daylight for the first time in thirty years. What came out of the barn was a remarkable snapshot of the past: the Buick was found in surprisingly excellent condition. Its original paint, interior, and chrome were not only intact but also showed minimal signs of wear, indicating that the vehicle had been cherished in its early days.

The Car’s Specifications and Legacy

This 1938 model is part of the second-generation Buick Specials, notable for its large four-door sedan body, a 107-inch wheelbase, and a robust 248 cubic inch inline-eight engine known as the “Dynaflash.” Introduced by Buick in 1937, the Dynaflash engine was celebrated for its smooth operation and substantial power output of 107 horsepower, propelling the car to speeds up to 90 miles per hour.

In its day, the Buick Special was a marvel of automotive achievement, balancing performance and elegance. The year 1938 saw Buick sell over 130,900 Specials, with nearly 80,000 being sedans like the one discovered. Despite these numbers, the 1938 Buicks are seldom seen on the roads today, making this barn find particularly significant.

The Future of the 1938 Buick

The rediscovery of this 1938 Buick is not just about celebrating its past but also about looking forward to its potential restoration and return to the road. For collectors and enthusiasts, the prospect of restoring such an all-original survivor is an enticing challenge and an opportunity to preserve a piece of automotive heritage.

This Buick’s journey from a cherished family project to a forgotten relic, and now, to a promising restoration project, underscores the emotional and historical ties that people have with classic cars. Its story is a vivid reminder of why vintage cars are so much more than just modes of transportation: they are moving histories, embodying the dreams, aspirations, and memories of their time. As this 1938 Buick prepares for its next chapter, it stands as a symbol of resilience, waiting to reclaim its place on the modern roads while echoing the glory of its era.