Description
The Buick Super Eight Series 50 Estate Wagon was a distinctive and upscale station wagon produced during the early 1940s and postwar years, combining the practicality of a family vehicle with the refinement and power of the Super line. As part of the Series 50, it offered more space and luxury than the entry-level Special, while maintaining Buick’s commitment to solid performance and elegant styling.
What set the Estate Wagon apart was its beautiful wood-bodied construction. Crafted with genuine hardwood panels—typically ash or mahogany—the wagon featured intricate joinery and polished finishes that gave it a handcrafted, almost artisanal quality. The natural wood was framed by steel bodywork at the front and complemented by subtle chrome accents, giving the car a warm and stately appearance that stood out in any setting.
Powering the Super Eight Series 50 Estate Wagon was the dependable 248 cubic inch straight-eight engine, a smooth overhead valve inline-eight known for its quiet operation and strong low-end torque. This engine provided more than enough power to move the wagon’s substantial weight, especially when paired with Buick’s advanced suspension system and, in later models, the optional Dynaflow automatic transmission.
Inside, the Estate Wagon offered a well-finished and spacious cabin with seating for up to eight passengers in a three-row configuration. The upholstery was typically a combination of durable leatherette or cloth, suited for family use while still reflecting Buick’s premium standards. The dashboard was attractively styled, with Art Deco-inspired gauges and chrome trim, blending functionality with flair.
Because of its hand-built wooden body, the Estate Wagon was more expensive and labor-intensive to produce than most steel-bodied vehicles, making it a relatively rare and exclusive offering. It was aimed at buyers who needed the utility of a station wagon but didn’t want to sacrifice comfort or class.
Today, the Buick Super Eight Series 50 Estate Wagon is a rare and highly collectible classic. Surviving examples are admired for their craftsmanship, historical significance, and status as some of the finest wood-bodied wagons ever produced by an American manufacturer.