Modern car packed with people and technology. Thanks to the advent of driver assistance features, advanced infotainment systems, and voice command integration, our vehicles have become rolling computers.
I saw a story on some Buick forums about the owner of a 1962 Buick Electra showing his radio to some young men. “Does your car have a voice-activated radio?” he asked.
“No,” they said. “Look at this,” he replied. With that, he ordered “change station” while surreptitiously pressing a button on the floor near the brake pedal to advance his radio to the next station. Foot-mounted radio buttons are a thing of the past, but 70 years ago they were a common feature.
Today’s pick is a 1953 Buick Super Riviera two-door hardtop for sale on ClassicCars.com by a private seller in Salt Lake City, Utah. (Click the link to view the list)
Yes, its Wonder Bar radio has a foot control!
“Acquired by the current owner from the original owner in 1978, it remains a stunning example of classic automotive design,” the listing begins. The car, finished in matador red and black tones, is said to have received a restoration over 40 years ago, but according to the nearly 100 photos included in the listing, it has been meticulously preserved. Buick fans will notice the attractive spoked wheels sourced from Skylark and refinished. The interior has been partially renovated and looks good.
The seller is transparent about the car’s shortcomings. Among other things, the tires are said to need replacing, the seats have some wear, the paint shows some imperfections and the chassis needs cleaning.
The Super rides on General Motors’ C-body platform and has a shorter wheelbase than the upscale Roadmaster model. One of the distinguishing features of Buicks of this era was the series of “VentiPorts” on the hood or front fenders: Supers had three VentiPorts, while Roadmasters had four. super riviera This name was reserved for the two-door hardtop.
Power comes from a 322ci Fireball V8 engine paired with a twin-turbo Dynaflow automatic transmission. This engine differed from the inline-eight found in previous supercars, and Buick promoted it heavily in advertising. “You can tell right away that this is a great V8,” said one magazine ad. It went on to say, “We cordially invite you to experience this truly advanced V8 engine – the world’s first vertical valve. , T-shaped intake manifold, and zero power loss muffler V8 engine, it is also the first standard production American engine. “The compression ratio of the passenger car engine reaches 8.5 to 1. “
The listing concludes: “With plenty of character and a fun ride, this Buick will turn heads wherever you go.”
The car’s asking price is $32,000, but the ability to impress friends and neighbors with a “voice-activated” radio is priceless.
Check out this listing on ClassicCars.com and check out the gallery in Daily Picks.
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