Lot details Registration No: DG 1116 Chassis No: 167695 Mot Expiry: May 2006
Appearing in US showrooms on June 1st 1929 (in time for the 1930 model year), the new Buick Marquette range was primarily intended to rob domestic sales from the likes of Nash, Dodge and De Soto. Available with a variety of open and closed bodystyles (or as a rolling frame), its distinctive herringbone radiator grille was the work of parent company GM's new 'Art & Colour' department. Based on a 114-inch wheelbase, the Marquette's sturdy chassis was equipped with leaf-sprung suspension and four-wheel drum brakes. Powered by a 212ci straight-six sidevalve engine mated to a three-speed manual gearbox, it was claimed to accelerate from '5 to 25mph in 8.8 seconds'. Indeed, most versions were credited with a 70mph top speed. Built in Canada as well as the States and so in both left- and right-hand drive configurations, Marquettes were shipped to GM's outposts worldwide (South America, Europe, South Africa, Australasia etc). Despite a series of high profile endurance tests including a 778 mile run from Death Valley to Pike's Peak, the newcomer's negative effect on fellow stablemate Oldsmobile's market share saw production halted after a single season.
Finished in cream over black with cream leather upholstery, this particular right-hand drive example is variously rated by the vendor as being in fair (electrical equipment, wheels / tyres), good (chassis, paintwork, interior trim, bodywork) and excellent (engine, gearbox) condition. Described as "an extremely popular wedding car" that has "proved to be a very high earner over the last eight years", it is said to have undergone an "engine rebuild four years ago". As well as gaining "new alloy pistons", the unit is understood to have been fitted with a "brand new stainless exhaust including hand-built manifold", all of which cost some £3,000. Believed but not warranted to have covered 77,827 miles from new, this handsome rarity is offered for sale with MOT certificate valid until May 20th 2006 and historic class (free) road tax until April 2006.
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