Bulgari Collection
Written by Keith Fudge

Recently, Dennis Gage had the chance to see some classic cars from one of the most exclusive collections around.  The collection of Nicola Bulgari contains some incredible cars.  While this stunning assortment is given mainly to GM cars, particularly Buicks, Mr. Bulgari also has a unique affection for what could be called some of America’s “orphan” auto companies such as Nash, Hudson, and Studebaker.  During this visit, Dennis will get to see one from each group: a beautiful 1941 Buick Roadmaster convertible and a rare 1947 Nash Ambassador Suburban Woody!

When he arrived, Dennis met with Keith Flickinger, Chief Restorer and Curator of the collection.  They first began by looking at the Nash.  In its day, this car was manufactured by a company that built cars for the common man.  Today this beauty is anything but common!  Dennis called it a “fastback woody,” and that description seemed to be right on the money!  Keith said that 595 of these cars were originally produced and that now only seven remain.  He also added that this one has been totally restored.  However, they have another one in the collection that is all original!  The interior of the car features plaid upholstery and is simplistic in its instrumentation and design.  Some trademark features of the Nash are present, such as an abundance of the color of burgundy (including the steering wheel) and a back seat that makes into a bed!  Dennis commented that the rear of the car resembles a “tear-drop” trailer and the style perfectly fit the era!  Powering the Nash was a 234 cubic-inch, 112 horsepower, Flathead inline six-cylinder engine.  Soon, Dennis and Keith took to the streets and went cruising in this legendary car.  Dennis said that the car drove great and it definitely was a head-turner!  While they were driving, Keith told Dennis that all the cars in Mr. Bulgari’s collection are licensed, insured, and are ready to be driven!  Soon, Dennis and Keith returned from their drive in the Nash to look at another outstanding car from the 1940s.  The next classic was a stunning 1941 Buick Roadmaster convertible.  With an elegant grey exterior and a sleek almost pumpkin-colored leather interior, this car literally took our breath away!  Concerning the style and design, this classic car is all Buick from its massive fender skirts to its abundance of chrome trim.  Keith said that there were 312 of these convertibles built for 1941, and this one has to be one of the best around!  Keith noted that the car had been restored and purchased in California and has been in Mr. Bulgari’s collection for two years.  This model is powered by the Fireball Dynaflash Straight 8, and features dual carburetion that was an option for that year.  Another interesting feature of the car is that it sports a “piano” hood that can be opened from either side or removed completely.  Soon, Dennis and Keith hit the road again.  Dennis had a ball behind the wheel of this car from the fabulous ‘40s! 

Dennis and the crew had a great time in Allentown, Pennsylvania.  Until our next visit, “Honor the timeless classics.  Happy Motoring!”