What is Buick's current position within General Motors?

Buick is currently a division of the American automobile manufacturer General Motors (GM). It is positioned as a premium automobile brand, selling vehicles that are priced below the flagship luxury Cadillac division.

Who founded Buick, and when was the company established?

Buick was founded by automotive pioneer David Dunbar Buick. The company was established in December 1899, making it one of the oldest American automobile brands.

What significant role did Buick play in the formation of General Motors?

Buick was the company that established General Motors in 1908. GM founder William C. Durant had previously served as Buick's general manager and a major investor before founding GM.

What distinction does Buick hold among American carmakers?

With the discontinuation of Oldsmobile in 2004, Buick became the oldest surviving American carmaker still active today.

When and where were the first two Buick automobiles produced?

The first two Buick automobiles were produced between 1899 and 1902 in Detroit, Michigan, at the "Buick Auto-Vim and Power Company".

Who was the chief engineer responsible for the initial Buick automobiles and the valve-in-head engine?

Walter Lorenzo Marr was the chief engineer responsible for the first two Buick automobiles. He also developed the valve-in-head (overhead valve) engine, for which Eugene Richard applied for a patent in 1902, awarded to Buick in 1904.

What was the significance of the valve-in-head engine for Buick's early success?

The valve-in-head engine, also known as the overhead valve (OHV) engine, was considered a key factor in Buick's early success. This engine design, patented by Eugene Richard and developed by Richard, Buick, and Marr, was a foundational element of Buick's automotive technology.

When did Buick move its operations to Flint, Michigan, and why?

Buick moved from Detroit to Flint, Michigan, in 1904. James H. Whiting, owner of Flint Wagon Works, moved Buick to Flint with the intention of adding Buick's engines to his wagons.

How did William C. Durant become involved with Buick?

William C. Durant became involved with Buick in 1904 as a controlling investor when the company, then known as the Buick Motor Company, was running out of operating capital. Durant had previously made his fortune with the Durant-Dort Carriage Company.

What was the production volume of Buick automobiles in the early years, and how did it compare to competitors?

Buick's production saw significant growth, increasing from 37 automobiles in 1904 to 8,820 in 1908. In 1908, this volume allowed Buick to surpass close competitors like Ford, Maxwell, and Olds Motor Works, proclaiming itself the largest car manufacturer in the world that year.

When was the Buick Motor Company officially incorporated, and where?

The Buick Motor Company was officially incorporated on May 19, 1903, in Detroit, Michigan.

What was the first Buick model offered to the public, and when was it produced?

The first Buick made for sale was the 1904 Model B, which featured a horizontally opposed 2-cylinder engine. This model was built in Flint, Michigan.

How did Buick's platform architecture evolve within General Motors?

Buick vehicles shared a common platform, known as the GM A platform, which was also used by Chevrolet, Oakland, Oldsmobile, and Cadillac. This strategy aimed to save resources by standardizing components across different GM divisions.

What was the significance of the Buick Model 10 introduced in 1910?

The Buick Model 10, introduced in 1910, featured an overhead valve (OHV) four-cylinder engine. It was phased out following a restructuring initiated by GM's new leadership in late 1910.

How did Buick establish itself in China during the 1910s and 1920s?

During the 1910s and 1920s, Buick was a prestige brand in the Republic of China, favored by high-level politicians and the Emperor. The first automobile imported into China was a Buick in 1924, and by 1930, Buick accounted for one-sixth of all cars in the country.

What was the purpose of the Marquette sister brand launched by Buick in 1929?

In 1929, as part of General Motors' companion make program, Buick launched the Marquette sister brand. It was designed to bridge the price gap between Buick and Oldsmobile and featured styling with a high peaked hood and radiator shell.

What major engine and transmission advancements did Buick introduce for the 1931 model year?

For the 1931 model year, Buick introduced the OHV Buick Straight-8 engine and a synchromesh transmission across most of its models. The Straight-8 engine was offered in various displacements, providing different horsepower ratings depending on the series.

What innovative feature did Buick introduce in 1939 that was ahead of other car brands?

In 1939, Buick became the first company to introduce turn signals, a feature that would not appear on other car brands for nearly another decade.

Which British monarch had a preference for McLaughlin-Buicks in the mid-1930s?

British monarch Edward VIII had a preference for McLaughlin-Buicks, the Canadian-built versions, during the mid-1930s.

What role did Buick play during World War II?

During World War II, Buick halted automobile production and instead produced the M18 Hellcat tank destroyer. They also supplied radial engines for aircraft such as the B-24 Liberator, C-47 Skytrain, and C-54 Skymaster.

What significant transmission and styling features did Buick introduce in 1948 and 1949?

In 1948, Buick introduced the Dynaflow automatic transmission. The following year, 1949, saw the debut of Buick's distinctive VentiPorts, which were vents on the front fenders.

What milestones did Buick achieve in 1953 and 1955?

1953 marked Buick's 50th anniversary and the introduction of the Buick V8 engine and the Roadmaster Skylark. In 1955, Buick achieved its best model year sales to date with 738,814 vehicles sold, a record that stood until 1977.

What new models were introduced by Buick in 1959?

In 1959, Buick introduced three new models: the Electra, Invicta, and LeSabre. A new 401 cubic inch V8 engine was also introduced for the Electra and Invicta models.

What was the significance of the Buick Special in 1962?

The Buick Special was named Motor Trend Car of the Year in 1962. This compact car line had seen the return of the Skylark nameplate as its top model in 1961.

When was the Buick Riviera introduced as its own distinct model?

The Buick Riviera was introduced as its own distinct model in 1963.

What new models were added to the Buick lineup in the 1970s?

The 1970s saw the introduction of several new Buick models: the Estate Wagon as its own model in 1970, the Centurion in 1971, the Apollo in 1973, and the Skyhawk in 1975. The Park Avenue nameplate also first appeared in 1975 as a trim/option package.

How did Buick's sales perform in the late 1970s?

Buick experienced record-breaking sales in the late 1970s. After redesigning and downsizing the Electra 225 and LeSabre in 1977, the brand achieved its best model year sales to date with 773,313 vehicles sold. This record was further surpassed in 1978 with 795,316 vehicles sold.

What performance-oriented models and features did Buick offer in the 1980s?

In the 1980s, Buick focused on turbocharging and performance, offering models like the Regal Grand National and GNX. The T-Type performance trim was introduced on the Riviera, and the Grand National package became available on the Regal. Buick also offered a turbocharged V6 engine on the Regal coupe.

What was the significance of the 1985 Buick Electra?

The 1985 Buick Electra represented a significant shift as it was downsized and became GM's first front-drive, transverse-engine, full-size unibody car. It was initially powered by Buick V6 engines or an Oldsmobile diesel V6.

How did Buick's marketing theme evolve in the late 1980s?

In the late 1980s, Buick shifted its marketing theme from "The Great American Road Belongs to Buick" to "Buick: The New Symbol for Quality in America." This change was partly influenced by a quality study that ranked the Flint-built LeSabre highly.

What changes occurred in Buick's lineup in the 1990s regarding model continuity and performance?

In the 1990s, Buick saw the return of the Roadmaster after a 33-year absence, initially as a wagon and later as a sedan. The brand also introduced a supercharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, making Buick a leader in supercharged car marketing by the new millennium.

What was the fate of the Buick Riviera in the late 1990s?

The Buick Riviera was discontinued after the 1999 model year due to declining sales of coupes. The final 200 Riviera models were designated "Silver Arrow" models.

How did Buick's lineup change in the 2000s regarding vehicle types?

In the 2000s, Buick modified its lineup by abandoning the compact and performance segments in favor of the growing crossover/SUV market. This led to the introduction of models like the Rendezvous, Rainier, and Terraza.

What was the significance of the Buick Centieme concept car?

The Buick Centieme concept car, introduced in 2003, commemorated the Buick Motor Division's 100th anniversary. Some of its design elements later appeared on the 2008 Buick Enclave crossover.

How did Buick's market position and sales evolve in the late 2000s?

In the late 2000s, Buick consolidated its North American lineup to three models and faced rumors of discontinuation due to a reputation for appealing to older buyers. However, its profitability and popularity in China secured its future within GM.

What was the impact of GM's 2009 reorganization on the Buick brand?

During GM's Chapter 11 reorganization in 2009, Buick was designated a "core brand" due to its success in China. This led to GM moving products originally planned for other brands, like the Opel Insignia, to Buick, resulting in the new Buick Regal.

How did Buick's market appeal change in the 2010s?

In the 2010s, Buick became the fastest-growing automotive brand in America, attracting a younger customer demographic. It was positioned as a "premium" marque to compete with entry-level luxury brands.

What new models and technologies did Buick introduce in the 2010s?

The 2010s saw the return of the Buick Regal, the introduction of the Verano compact sedan, and the Regal GS with a manual transmission and turbocharger. Buick also entered the hybrid market with eAssist technology and introduced the Encore mini crossover.

What strategic changes did Buick announce in 2022 regarding its future lineup?

In June 2022, Buick announced its plan to transition its entire lineup to electric vehicles by 2030. This transition involves significant investment, and dealers have the option to accept a buyout rather than upgrade their facilities.

What is the Buick Trishield logo, and how has it evolved?

The Buick Trishield logo is based on the ancestral coat of arms of founder David Dunbar Buick. It evolved from a single red shield to a trio of red, white, and blue shields in 1960, representing the LeSabre, Invicta, and Electra models. It was simplified in the 1980s and returned to traditional colors in 2023.

What are VentiPorts, and what was their original purpose?

VentiPorts are a traditional Buick styling cue, consisting of three or four vents on the front fender behind the front wheels, dating back to 1949. Originally, they were functional, helping to ventilate the engine compartment by allowing pressurized air from the radiator fan to exit.

How did the meaning of the number of VentiPorts change over time?

Initially, the number of VentiPorts (three or four) indicated the size of the engine installed. However, as engine designs evolved, the convention shifted, and by 1955, the number of VentiPorts began to denote body size rather than engine displacement.

What is the 'Sweepspear' styling cue, and when was it prominent?

The Sweepspear was a styling cue prominent from the 1940s through the 1970s, characterized by a curved trim line running almost the length of the car. Introduced as an option on the 1949 Roadmaster Riviera hardtop coupe, it became a standard feature on all Buicks by 1951.

What was the 'Delta Fin' styling feature, and when was it used?

The 'Delta Fin' was a styling feature that appeared on Buick models with an all-new appearance for 1959. Reminiscent of a rocket ship, it was a development of the 'Sweepspear' and was trimmed down in 1960 before being removed for 1961.

Describe the characteristic taillight shapes of Buicks in the 1950s and early 1960s.

During the 1950s, Buick taillights typically featured a tier of small, circular bullet shapes. In the early 1960s, most models transitioned to a wide, rectangular pattern, with full-width rear lamps appearing on the 1965 Skylark and Electra models.

What is the 'dollar grin' grille styling, and when was it most pronounced?

The 'dollar grin' refers to Buick's classic grille styling from the 1942-1958 period, characterized by a horizontal oval shape with numerous thin, vertical chromed ribs that bulged forward. It was particularly pronounced on early 1950s models, where the thick, polished ribs resembled teeth.

What is the 'waterfall grille' styling, and when did Buick adopt it?

The waterfall grille is a styling element Buick adopted in recent years, first seen on the 2004 Buick Velite concept car and first used in production on the 2006 Buick Lucerne. This grille design bears some resemblance to grilles found on Buicks from the 1980s, such as the Grand National.

What was the 'Nailhead' engine, and why was it popular with hot-rodders?

The Buick V8 engine was nicknamed the 'Nailhead' due to its relatively small intake and exhaust valves. It became popular with hot-rodders in the 1950s and 1960s because the vertical attachment of its valve covers allowed the engine to fit into smaller spaces while still providing easy maintenance access.

What were some of Buick's notable high-performance models?

Buick has been known for high-performance vehicles, including the Gran Sport and Skylark GSX models from the 1960s and 1970s, and the Grand National and GNX models from the 1980s. The T-Type performance package was also a notable offering.

How has Buick performed in the Chinese market historically and recently?

Buick has been consistently popular in China, being one of the country's best-selling automobiles. Historically, one in five cars in pre-WWII China was a Buick, and it was used by prominent figures like the last emperor Puyi. In 2016, GM sold over 1.1 million Buicks in China, establishing it as a leading vehicle brand there.

When did Buick re-enter the Mexican market after its initial withdrawal?

Buick re-entered the Mexican market in late September 2009, after an absence of twelve years. This followed the elimination of the Pontiac brand and the availability of a large network of Pontiac-GMC dealerships.

Buick Wiki: Buick: A Legacy of American Automotive Excellence

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A Storied Past

Genesis and Foundation

Buick's origins trace back to 1899 with the founding of the Buick Auto-Vim and Power Company by automotive pioneer David Dunbar Buick. Initially focused on stationary and marine engines, the company produced its first automobiles in 1899 and 1900. By 1903, the Buick Motor Company was incorporated. The brand's early success, particularly with its innovative valve-in-head engine, propelled it to become the largest car manufacturer in America by 1908, laying the groundwork for the establishment of General Motors by William C. Durant.

The Birth of General Motors

The remarkable growth and production volume of Buick were instrumental in William C. Durant's vision for a consolidated automotive enterprise. In 1908, Durant founded General Motors, with Buick serving as its foundational cornerstone. Durant's strategy was to position each GM division, including Buick, to cater to specific market segments, with Buick established as a premium brand positioned just below the luxury Cadillac division.

Growth and Evolution

Throughout the early 20th century, Buick solidified its reputation for quality and performance. The brand introduced significant advancements, such as the overhead valve engine and synchromesh transmissions. Buick's influence extended globally, becoming a symbol of prestige in markets like China. The company navigated the challenges of two World Wars, contributing to the war effort with military vehicle production and engines, before resuming civilian automobile manufacturing.

Iconic Models Through Time

Early Pioneers (1900s-1930s)

Buick's early lineup featured models like the Model B, C, F, and G, establishing its presence with innovative engineering. The introduction of the Master Series and Standard Series in the 1920s, followed by the Straight-8 engine and synchromesh transmissions in the 1930s, showcased Buick's commitment to advancement and luxury. Iconic models from this era include the Special, Roadmaster, Century, and Super series.

Post-War Elegance (1940s-1970s)

The post-war era saw Buick embrace distinctive styling and technological advancements. The introduction of the Dynaflow automatic transmission and VentiPorts became signature features. Models like the Roadmaster, Super, Skylark, LeSabre, Wildcat, and Riviera defined Buick's image of style and comfort, with the Riviera, in particular, becoming a benchmark for personal luxury coupes.

Modern Era and Adaptation (1980s-Present)

Buick adapted to changing market demands, introducing turbocharged engines and performance-oriented models like the Grand National. The brand embraced front-wheel drive and downsized vehicles in the 1980s and 1990s, while maintaining its premium positioning with models such as the Park Avenue and Regal. The 21st century has seen Buick focus on crossovers and SUVs, with models like the Enclave, Encore, and Envision, alongside a continued presence in sedans and a strategic shift towards electrification.

Signature Design Elements

The Trishield

The Buick Trishield, derived from the founder's family crest, has evolved into a prominent symbol of the brand. Initially a single shield, it transformed in 1960 into three shields in red, white, and blue, representing the LeSabre, Invicta, and Electra models. This iconic emblem has been a consistent visual identifier, undergoing simplification and reintroduction of its traditional colors, signifying Buick's enduring heritage.

VentiPorts

A distinctive styling cue since 1949, VentiPorts are decorative vents located on the front fenders behind the wheels. Originally conceived to aid engine compartment ventilation, they evolved into a purely aesthetic feature. The number of VentiPorts traditionally indicated engine size or model hierarchy, a tradition maintained even with modern V6 and V8 engines, appearing on models like the Park Avenue and Lucerne.

Sweepspear and Delta Fins

The "Sweepspear" design, a gracefully curved character line, graced Buick vehicles from the 1940s through the 1970s, accentuating the vehicle's profile. This evolved into the "Delta Fin" in the late 1950s, reflecting the era's fascination with space-age design, reminiscent of rocket ships. These styling elements contributed significantly to Buick's distinctive and luxurious appearance across various model generations.

Visionary Concepts

Pioneering Concepts

Buick's history is punctuated by forward-thinking concept cars that previewed future design and technology. The Y-Job, considered the automotive industry's first concept car in 1938, set a precedent for design exploration. Subsequent concepts like the XP-300, Wildcat II, and Riviera concepts have consistently pushed the boundaries of automotive aesthetics and innovation, often influencing production models.

Electrification and Future

In recent years, Buick has embraced electrification, showcasing concepts like the Enspire, Electra, and Wildcat EV. These concepts signal Buick's commitment to a sustainable future, aligning with the brand's strategic transition to an all-electric lineup by 2030. This forward-looking approach ensures Buick remains relevant and competitive in the evolving automotive landscape.

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References

Wells, Dick. "SRMA Update" in Street Rodder, 12/98, p.298. The accuracy of this source is in question, however.

Clymer, Floyd. Treasury of Early American Automobiles, 1877-1925 (New York: Bonanza Books, 1950)

LaChance, David (July 2006). "1966â'67 Buick Riviera GS". Muscle Machines. Retrieved July 26, 2015

A full list of references for this article are available at the Buick Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.

This is not professional automotive advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding vehicle specifications, history, or maintenance. Always refer to official manufacturer documentation and consult with qualified automotive professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Buick: A Legacy of American Automotive Excellence

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

A Storied Past ⏳

⚙️ Genesis and Foundation

🏢 The Birth of General Motors

📈 Growth and Evolution

Iconic Models Through Time 🚘

📜 Early Pioneers (1900s-1930s)

🌟 Post-War Elegance (1940s-1970s)

🚀 Modern Era and Adaptation (1980s-Present)

Signature Design Elements ✨

🛡️ The Trishield

💨 VentiPorts

〰️ Sweepspear and Delta Fins

Visionary Concepts 💡

🎨 Pioneering Concepts

⚡ Electrification and Future

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

A Storied Past

Genesis and Foundation

The Birth of General Motors

Growth and Evolution

Iconic Models Through Time

Early Pioneers (1900s-1930s)

Post-War Elegance (1940s-1970s)

Modern Era and Adaptation (1980s-Present)

Signature Design Elements

The Trishield

VentiPorts

Sweepspear and Delta Fins

Visionary Concepts

Pioneering Concepts

Electrification and Future

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice