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1973 Buick Estate Wagon: A Luxurious Behemoth of Its Time

The 1973 Buick Estate Wagon stands as a testament to American automotive opulence, a time capsule on wheels that encapsulates the grandeur of 70s car culture. Born from the esteemed Buick division of General Motors, this full-size station wagon was designed for the discerning family with an appetite for space, comfort, and luxury. At a time when wagons were a staple of suburban driveways, the Estate Wagon was a cut above the rest, offering a unique blend of style and functionality that left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. One particularly intriguing fact about this model is its use of GM's clamshell tailgate, an innovative feature that tucked away beneath the vehicle for unparalleled cargo access.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1973 Buick Estate Wagon exuded elegance with its sweeping lines and substantial presence. It featured a prominent grille and classic round headlamps that were synonymous with Buick's design language. The woodgrain paneling along the sides gave it an air of sophistication that was highly sought after during that era. Inside, passengers were greeted with plush seating and high-quality materials throughout the cabin. The dashboard was an array of gauges and controls, all within reach and designed with driver ergonomics in mind. Technologically, it boasted features like power windows and air conditioning – luxuries not found in every vehicle at the time. Color options ranged from deep emerald greens to rich burgundy hues, with Woodland Green being among the popular choices. The Estate Wagon came in various configurations, but the nine-passenger model with rear-facing third-row seating remains iconic.

Historical Significance

The 1973 Buick Estate Wagon wasn't just another family vehicle; it represented the pinnacle of station wagon design. It set itself apart with its quiet ride, roomy interior, and upscale trim options that were more commonly found in luxury sedans than wagons. This model played a pivotal role in cementing Buick's reputation as a purveyor of premium family transport long before SUVs dominated the market.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood lay a powerful V8 engine that propelled this hefty wagon with surprising agility for its size. While top speed figures were not touted like they are today, acceleration was brisk for a vehicle of its stature, moving from 0-60 mph in under 10 seconds – impressive for a car weighing well over two tons. On the road, it handled bumps with grace thanks to its soft suspension setup, providing a cloud-like ride quality. Drivers could expect a muted but satisfying rumble from the engine bay as they cruised highways and byways alike.

Ownership Experience

The 1973 Buick Estate Wagon found its niche among families seeking comfort during long road trips as well as among enthusiasts who appreciated its unique blend of utility and luxury. Maintenance was typical for vehicles of its era – straightforward mechanicals but requiring regular attention to keep it running smoothly. Reliability was commendable when properly cared for, making it both a practical daily driver and a cherished show car.

Fun Facts

This classic wagon has had its share of spotlight moments – from being owned by celebrities to appearing in films and television shows that wanted to capture the essence of '70s Americana. Although not known for breaking speed records, it did set standards for comfort and luxury in wagons. Criticisms often centered around its fuel consumption – not unexpected given its size and engine displacement.

Collector's Information

Today, collectors value the 1973 Buick Estate Wagon for its rarity and nostalgic appeal. While production numbers weren't low for the time, surviving examples in excellent condition are uncommon. Values can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality; however, well-preserved models can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or more depending on their provenance and market demand.

Conclusion

The 1973 Buick Estate Wagon is more than just an old car; it's a piece of American history on four wheels. It represents an era where size equaled status, and practicality didn't have to sacrifice luxury. For those who own one today or aspire to add one to their collection, it offers an incomparable blend of nostalgia, comfort, and character that continues to resonate with car enthusiasts around the world.

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high-BN 1Shock Absorber Grommet. 1" bottom O.D., 3/4" high., with 7/16" I.D. Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110Front coil-spring insulator. Fits '41-'60 Oldsmobile and '50-'83 GM passenger models. 5-3/8 in. OD x 3-3/4 in. ID x 3/4 in. high with 13/16 in. wide bottom flange 1/4" thick, 12 flutes. Each.

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Front Molded Door Seals-LM 16-GFront Molded Door Seals. For 4-door sedan and wagon, with RWD. Each is 138-1/2" long. Pair R&L

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Rear Molded Door Seals. For 4-door wagon only, with RWD-LM 16-G/WRear Molded Door Seals. For 4-door wagon only, with RWD. Each is 127-1/2" long. Pair R&L

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Trunk Liner. Loose weave-M 23Trunk Liner. Loose weave. Black with scattered white threads. 54" wide. Sold by the foot

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber-RP 8Oil Filler Hole Cap. Made of rubber. Fits a 1-3/16" to 1-1/4" hole. Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Front door window stop bumper. ’70-’81 GM passenger cars-SB 70-AFront door window stop bumper. '70-'81 GM passenger cars. Dense rubber. Replaces OEM# 9810036. Each.

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D-UM 1600-100Unbeaded Door and Trunk Lock Gasket. 1-3/16" O.D., 7/8" I.D. Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel-WF 205Quarter Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of Steel. 1-3/8" X 11/16". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Rear Window Reveal Molding Clip. For Station Wagons-WF 208Rear Window Reveal Molding Clip. For Station Wagons. Made of steel. 5/8" x 3/4". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1"-WF 209Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 13/16" x 1". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 223Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1/1/8" X 3/4". Each

1973 Buick Estate Wagon Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 224Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 1-1/4" X 3/4". Fits many models. Each