This 1910 Buick 17 was the largest Buick built in 1910, featuring a 318 c.i. engine and a three speed sliding gear transmission.  Buick was the first to feature overhead valves. Their “valve in head” design is prominent on this vehicle with exposed push rods and rocker arms. The car is also equipped with and oil can on the dash as standard equipment and the operators manual instructs the drive to stop and lubricate every four hours.

This car spent most of its life in New England. It was painted in the late 1940’s and used on many Glidden tours up into the sixties.  The current owner rebuilt the engine for touring and fitted it with a new top. The upholstery remains mostly original.

Overview

• Production Year: 1910
• Manufacturer: Buick Motor Company
• Class: Touring car

Design and Specifications

• Engine:
  • The Buick Model 17 was equipped with a four-cylinder engine.
  • The engine had a displacement of 255 cubic inches (4.2 liters).
  • It produced around 40 horsepower, which was quite powerful for its time.
• Transmission:
  • The car featured a three-speed manual transmission.
  • The transmission was known for its reliability and ease of use.
• Chassis:
  • The Model 17 had a sturdy and robust chassis, reflecting Buick's focus on durability and performance.
  • It featured a wheelbase of 112 inches, providing a stable and comfortable ride.
• Suspension:
  • The front and rear suspension used semi-elliptic leaf springs, a common design for the era.
• Brakes:
  • The car was equipped with mechanical drum brakes, providing adequate stopping power for its performance.

Performance

• Top Speed: The Buick Model 17 could achieve a top speed of around 50 mph (80 km/h), which was impressive for a vehicle of its time.
• Acceleration: The car had decent acceleration for its era, driven by its relatively powerful engine and lightweight construction.
• Handling: The Model 17 offered good handling characteristics, thanks to its well-designed chassis and suspension system.

Design Features

• Bodywork:
  • The Model 17 was a five-passenger touring car, featuring an open body style with a folding soft top.
  • It had brass fittings and trim, characteristic of the brass era of automobiles.
  • The car's design included large, prominent fenders and a stylish grille.
• Interior:
  • The interior of the Model 17 was relatively spacious and comfortable, with leather seating and basic instrumentation.
  • It featured a simple, functional dashboard with essential controls and gauges.
• Styling:
  • The Buick Model 17 had a classic, elegant look with a high level of craftsmanship.
  • The vehicle's design emphasized both form and function, making it a desirable car for its time.

Legacy and Historical Significance

• Historical Significance:
  • The Buick Model 17 represents an important period in the development of the American automotive industry.
  • It showcased Buick's ability to produce reliable, high-quality vehicles that appealed to a broad range of customers.
• Cultural Impact:
  • The Model 17 was a popular choice among early car buyers, contributing to Buick's reputation as a leading automaker.
  • It played a role in the expansion of automobile ownership in the United States, making car travel more accessible to the public. 

Taken at the Hilton Head Island Concours d'Elegance & Motoring Festival.

You may purchase a print of the 1910 Buick 17 in our dElegance 2014 online gallery.

The Vintage Automobile Article Index