• Seller: Stephen R awlins
• Location: Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
• Mileage: 60,000 Shown
• Chassis #: 8410
• Title Status: Clean

This 1929 McLaughlin-Buick Model 51 presents beautifully following a complete restoration. No aspect of the car escaped the owner’s attention, making it a turnkey proposition for a new owner. It is guaranteed to turn heads and would suit an enthusiast seeking a relatively rare classic from an almost-forgotten arm of the General Motors empire. The current owner feels the time is right for this gem to find a new home, listing it with us at Barn Finds Auctions.

Like many vehicle manufacturers from the era, McLaughlin started operations producing carriages in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. It turned its attention to the fledgling car industry in 1905 and would eventually be taken over by Buick and become part of General Motors of Canada. Our feature car is a 1929 McLaughlin-Buick Model 51, and its presentation is hard to fault following a total restoration. The two-tone Green and Brown paint retains a beautifully deep shine, which was one of the defining features of these cars when new. There are no signs of flaws or defects in the panels or paint of this rust-free classic. This Model 51 features a pair of side-mounted spares that add a classy air, which is further reinforced by the spotless trunk. The spoked timber wheels are in as-new condition, while the matching timber on the running boards is immaculate. The chrome and trim sparkle as impressively as the paint, and there are no glass issues. The owner describes this classic as being in show condition, and it is hard to argue with that assessment.

Powering this McLaughlin is Buick’s 309ci six-cylinder powerplant that sends 91hp and 215 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed manual transmission. The power figure is impressive for the era, representing a 16% increase over the previous year’s engine output. However, the torque is enough to move mountains. It peaks at a mere 1,200rpm, meaning this classic can pull away from low speeds in surprisingly high gears, while climbing hills is about as effortless as you could hope to find from any 1920s classic. This gem is in excellent mechanical health, only requiring some minor brake adjustments. Its engine bay presents as impressively as the rest of the vehicle, with no fluid leaks or other problems. The McLaughlin runs and drives as it should, and with the brakes adjusted, it is ready to hit the road with the new owner behind the wheel.

McLaughlin classed the Model 51 as a five-seater. However, the cavernous interior means seating an extra person in the front shouldn’t be challenging. Therefore, this beauty would be ideal for an enthusiast with a growing family. The theme of spotless presentation continues inside this McLaughlin, with the upholstered surfaces trimmed in luxurious broadcloth. There are no signs of wear or other issues on the trim or carpet, which is expected since the car has seen little service since its restoration. The dash appears perfect, with the gauges featuring clear lenses and crisp markings. The timber wheel reinforces the classy air, and the only fault worth noting is the inoperative windshield wipers. However, the system’s simplicity means addressing the problem shouldn’t be difficult.

This 1929 McLaughlin-Buick Model 51 presents beautifully, and addressing its minor shortcomings won’t involve much time or effort. Tackling them would be an excellent way to learn more about what makes this classic tick during winter, ensuring it is at its best when the time comes for summer motoring fun. Its relative rarity helps it stand apart from the crowd. However, since it was built by a General Motors marque, locating spares won’t be a challenge if they are ever needed. That makes it an excellent option if you are searching for a classic that could become a genuine family heirloom. We all want to leave a legacy for future generations, and this McLaughlin could be yours.

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