Why Some Classic Buicks Have Three Portholes and Others Have Four
Bottom line: Buick introduced Ventiports with three holes in 1949 and switched to four in 1950 to mark a design refresh and improve engine cooling. The number of portholes doesn’t indicate a hidden performance code – it’s mostly a styling cue.
Why Classic Buicks Have Three or Four Ventiport Portholes – Explained
Image: Why Classic Buicks Have Three or Four Ventiport Portholes – Explained – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
The first Ventiports appeared on the 1949 Buick Roadmaster. Buick’s engineers wanted a visual cue that hinted at better airflow without compromising the car’s elegant lines. Three round portholes were placed on each side of the grille, giving the car a distinctive, almost futuristic look.
In 1950 Buick refreshed the Roadmaster’s front end. The new grille featured four portholes per side. The extra hole allowed a slightly larger opening for the radiator, helping the bigger 263‑cu‑in. straight‑six stay cooler during highway cruising. At the same time, the four‑hole pattern became a visual shorthand for the newer model year, helping buyers instantly tell a 1950 from a 1949 on the showroom floor.
Performance & Mileage
While the porthole count is mainly cosmetic, the underlying engineering did improve a bit. The larger air intake helped the 263‑cu‑in. engine maintain steady temperatures, which in turn supported a modest mileage gain—around 12‑14 mpg at steady speed, compared to roughly 11‑12 mpg on the 1949 version. The difference isn’t dramatic, but owners of the four‑porthole models often reported a smoother, quieter ride because the engine didn’t have to work as hard to stay cool.
Price & Rivals
Buick positioned the Roadmaster as a premium full‑size sedan, pricing it slightly above rivals like the Oldsmobile 98 and the Chrysler New Yorker. The 1949 Roadmaster started at about $3,400, while the 1950 model with four Ventiports was priced near $3,500. The extra dollar reflected the refreshed styling and the minor performance benefit.
Buyers who cared about brand heritage often chose Buick for its “quiet luxury” feel. The Ventiport count became a conversation starter at car clubs, adding a bit of collectible mystique to each year’s production run.
| Engine | Mileage (mpg) | Price (USD) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 263‑cu‑in. straight‑six | 11‑12 (1949) / 12‑14 (1950) | $3,400 (1949) / $3,500 (1950) |
|
FAQ
- What year did Buick first use Ventiports? The Ventiport debuted on the 1949 Buick Roadmaster with three portholes per side.
- Did the four‑porthole design improve fuel economy? It gave a small boost—about 1‑2 mpg higher at steady cruising speeds—thanks to better radiator cooling.
- Are three‑porthole Buicks rarer than four‑porthole ones? Yes. The 1949 three‑porthole models were produced for just one model year, making them slightly more collectible.
If you own a classic Buick or are thinking about adding one to your collection, share your thoughts in the comments below. We love hearing about personal stories and restoration tips!
Source: Read Official News
