Buick Motor Division

 Buick Celebrates 90 Years: A Legacy of Innovation and Craftsmanship

Buick Motor Division marked a significant milestone in 1993, celebrating 90 years of continuous innovation, exceptional craftsmanship, and a unique ability to blend tradition with forward-thinking technology. To commemorate this special occasion, a ceremony was held at the company’s headquarters in Flint, Michigan, where Buick’s Chief Engineer, Tony Derhake, and GM Vice President Ed Mertz, stood proudly between two iconic vehicles: a meticulously restored 1905 Buick Model C and a gleaming 1993 Buick Park Avenue Ultra.
A Tribute to Buick’s Beginnings
The choice of the 1905 Model C was no accident. The early 1900s were a time of great ingenuity and risk-taking in the fledgling automobile industry, and Buick was at the forefront of that transformation. The Model C, one of Buick’s first production vehicles, symbolized the company’s commitment to quality and innovation. Powered by a robust two-cylinder engine, it was known for its reliability and the famous “valve-in-head” engine design, which became a Buick hallmark for decades to come.
Chief Engineer Tony Derhake, a key figure in Buick’s modern engineering advancements, took a moment to admire the car’s polished brass fittings, slender wooden-spoke wheels, and intricate details. “The Model C is a testament to the brilliance of David Dunbar Buick and his pioneering spirit,” Derhake noted. “It’s humbling to think that from these humble beginnings, Buick has evolved into the premium brand we celebrate today.”
A Modern Marvel: 1993 Park Avenue Ultra
The contrast between the 1905 Model C and the 1993 Park Avenue Ultra could not be more striking. The Ultra, Buick’s flagship sedan in the early ‘90s, represented the pinnacle of comfort, performance, and cutting-edge technology. Equipped with the revolutionary 3.8L V6 Supercharged engine, delivering 205 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, the Park Avenue Ultra was a true reflection of Buick’s forward-thinking approach, offering exceptional performance while maintaining the brand’s signature smooth, refined ride.
Standing beside the gleaming Ultra, GM Vice President Ed Mertz spoke of the car’s role in Buick’s success during the 1990s. “The Park Avenue Ultra embodies Buick’s commitment to delivering a world-class driving experience. It’s a celebration of our achievements and a glimpse into the future of what Buick will continue to offer.”
Bridging the Past and Future
The juxtaposition of these two models—a turn-of-the-century pioneer and a modern luxury sedan—embodied Buick’s rich history and promising future. The ceremony was not only a celebration of the past but also a statement of intent: to continue building vehicles that set standards in engineering, design, and driving experience.
As Derhake and Mertz stood between the two cars, they reflected on Buick’s journey from its earliest days to its current status as a leader in premium American vehicles. Derhake remarked, “What makes Buick truly special is our ability to innovate while staying true to our roots. It’s about respecting where we’ve been while embracing where we’re going.”
Looking Ahead
Buick’s 90th anniversary celebration was not just a moment to look back; it was an opportunity to look forward. The brand’s history of firsts, from the development of the valve-in-head engine to the introduction of supercharged engines and advanced safety features, serves as a foundation for future endeavors.
“We’ve come a long way since the Model C,” said Mertz. “The cars we build today are a blend of the innovation that drove Buick in the early 20th century and the technology that will drive us into the 21st century and beyond.”
As Buick moved into its next chapter, the presence of both the 1905 Model C and the 1993 Park Avenue Ultra at the headquarters in Flint served as a powerful reminder of the brand’s legacy—a legacy built on a relentless pursuit of excellence, an eye for luxury, and a passion for delivering the best to its customers.
In celebrating 90 years, Buick did more than honor its past. It reaffirmed its dedication to a future where innovation and tradition continue to go hand in hand.