This 1931 Buick Model 8-57 is a restored example powered by a 220ci inline-eight mated to a 3-speed synchromesh manual gearbox. Discovered in Half Moon Bay, California, the car was disassembled and restored in the early 90s. Records and handwritten letters document the refurbishment. It was brought to Texas by the seller two years ago and used as a show car for the fire department where he works. This driver-level example is now being offered for sale with numerous spare parts, tools, books, slides of the service manual, and a clean Texas title.

The red and black paint displays a nice shine in photographs. A few blemishes and scratches are noted on the front fenders, around the doors, on the hood latches, and in the door jams. Slight overspray is evident on the rear window and a minor ding is located on the passenger side rear door. The glass displays some scratching as well. Gold leaf markings shown in some of the photos are magnetic. The car was featured at the 2016 Houston Auto Show.

A 6V mechanical siren was mounted underneath the car for the fire department shows but is said to be easily removable. Period-correct emergency lighting was installed on the front bumper and a trunk was fitted on the rear. A factory Buick cross-bar and chrome spare tire cap remain.

According to the seller, the driving layout is similar to a modern vehicle, featuring an electric starter and crank starter, mechanical brakes, and mechanical steering. It reportedly does not typically need any choke or spark advance to start. The plush front seat is adjustable and shown in photos. The odometer is said to function and reads 91k miles, but true mileage is unknown. An estimated 2k miles has been added since the engine rebuild.

The 220ci OHV inline-eight was rated at 77bhp when new and is equipped with an oil temperature regulator that cools the oil at high speeds and warms the oil in cold temperatures. According to the seller, the louvers on the front work well and the engine doesn’t overheat during Texas summers. He notes a puff of smoke upon startup due to a minor exhaust valve leak, and new exhaust valve seals come with the car. Minor seepage from the oil pan gasket and a minor leak from the rear differential is also present, but leaks are said to be slow.

A service one year ago included a radiator steam, rebuilt water pump, fluid service, valve lash adjustment, carb adjustment, new 6V Optima battery, brake adjustment, paint polish, and all lubrications designated in the owner’s manual. Records are available from when the vehicle was found in California and document the restoration.

Minor corrosion is noted on underbody components with additional photos in the gallery.

Included in the sale are tools, jack, an original “Specifications and Adjustments” book, Fischer body manual, and slides of the service manual. Additional spare parts that accompany the vehicle are as follows: