Buick Roadmaster: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

## Brief Introduction of Buick Roadmaster

The Buick Roadmaster is a full-size automobile that was produced by Buick over several distinct periods, initially from 1936 to 1958 and later revived from 1991 to 1996. Throughout its production, the Roadmaster nameplate was synonymous with luxury, comfort, and top-of-the-line appointments within the Buick brand. In its early years, it was Buick’s flagship model, often sharing its chassis with entry-level Cadillac models, signifying its premium positioning. The Roadmaster was available in various body styles over its long history, including sedans, coupes, convertibles, and station wagons. Its multiple generations and variants have made it a noteworthy vehicle in American automotive history, popular for its powerful engines, spacious interiors, and distinctive styling.

## Buick Roadmaster Overview

## Generations and History of Buick Roadmaster

First Generation (1936–1937)

The Buick Roadmaster was first introduced in 1936 as the Series 80. The name “Roadmaster” was conceived to highlight the vehicle’s engineering and design advancements. This generation was built on Buick’s longest non-limousine wheelbase and was powered by a 320.2 cubic inch inline-eight engine. The design featured a blend of traditional and modern styling cues of the era, establishing the Roadmaster as a premium offering in the Buick lineup.

Second Generation (1938–1939)

The second generation of the Roadmaster saw stylistic refinements and continued to be a symbol of luxury. These models were built on a shared platform with Cadillac and Oldsmobile, further solidifying Buick’s position just below Cadillac in the GM hierarchy.

Third Generation (1940–1941)

For the 1940 model year, the Roadmaster received a significant redesign, featuring a “torpedo” style body that was longer, lower, and wider. This generation was built on the GM C-body platform, which it shared with the Cadillac Series 62 and Oldsmobile Series 90. The “Fireball” inline-eight engine continued to power the Roadmaster, with an increase in horsepower for the 1941 model year.

Fourth Generation (1942, 1946–1948)

Production of the Roadmaster was halted during World War II and resumed in 1946. The post-war models were largely similar to the 1942 models in terms of design. A significant addition during this period was the introduction of the Roadmaster Estate station wagon in 1947.

Fifth Generation (1949–1953)

The 1949 redesign was a major milestone for the Roadmaster, introducing the iconic “VentiPorts” on the front fenders, a styling cue that would become a Buick trademark. This generation also saw the introduction of Buick’s first V8 engine, the “Nailhead,” in 1953. The Dynaflow automatic transmission, which provided a smooth driving experience, was also a key feature. A notable model from this era was the 1953 Roadmaster Skylark convertible, created to celebrate Buick’s 50th anniversary.

Sixth Generation (1954–1956)

The sixth-generation Roadmaster featured new “ponton” styling and was built on the new GM C-body platform, sharing it with Cadillac and Oldsmobile. These models were larger than their predecessors and featured design elements like “Dagmar” bumpers.

Seventh Generation (1957–1958)

The 1957 models received a significant restyling and a new, more powerful 364 cubic inch V8 engine. However, sales began to decline during this period due to a recession, and the Roadmaster nameplate was retired after the 1958 model year, replaced by the Electra.

Eighth and Final Generation (1991–1996)

After a 33-year hiatus, Buick revived the Roadmaster nameplate for the 1991 model year. This final generation was a full-size, rear-wheel-drive vehicle built on the GM B-body platform, a departure from the C-body platform of its predecessors. It was offered as a sedan and a station wagon, known as the Roadmaster Estate. Initially powered by a 5.0L V8, it was later upgraded to a 5.7L LT1 V8, the same engine used in the Chevrolet Corvette, which gave it impressive performance. Production of the Roadmaster ended in 1996 as consumer preference shifted towards SUVs.

Buick Roadmaster Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Buick Roadmaster Variants and Features

Throughout its long history, the Buick Roadmaster was available in a wide array of variants to cater to different tastes and needs. The early generations offered traditional body styles such as four-door sedans, two-door coupes, and convertibles. A significant addition was the Roadmaster Estate, a station wagon variant introduced in 1947, which became particularly popular in its final generation with its characteristic woodgrain exterior paneling and a rear-facing third-row seat. The final generation (1991-1996) was offered in two main trims: a base sedan and a more upscale Limited Sedan, both of which were generously equipped with luxury features for the time. The Estate wagon also had a base and a Limited version. Standard features across these later models often included power everything, plush cloth or optional leather upholstery, and a comfortable, spacious interior designed for long-distance cruising.

Buick Roadmaster Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The early Buick Roadmasters were known for their smooth and powerful straight-eight engines, which provided ample power for the large vehicles. The introduction of the “Nailhead” V8 in 1953 marked a significant step up in performance for the brand. The final generation of the Roadmaster (1991-1996) initially came with a 5.0L V8 engine, but the most notable powerplant was the 5.7L LT1 V8, introduced in 1994. This engine, shared with the Chevrolet Corvette, produced 260 horsepower and gave the large sedan and wagon impressive acceleration and highway cruising capabilities. The ride quality across all generations was tuned for comfort, with a soft suspension that absorbed road imperfections, making for a smooth and quiet driving experience befitting a luxury vehicle. The body-on-frame construction of the final generation contributed to its solid and substantial feel on the road.

Buick Roadmaster Pricing and Mileage

As the Buick Roadmaster is no longer in production, there is no new car pricing available. The original sticker prices varied significantly over its many decades of production. In its final years, the Roadmaster was positioned as a premium full-size vehicle. For classic models, prices can range dramatically depending on the year, condition, rarity, and historical significance. Some well-preserved or restored examples can command high prices at classic car auctions. Mileage for the Roadmaster varied by generation and engine. The later V8 models were not known for their fuel efficiency, a common trait for large, V8-powered American cars of that era. Real-world mileage would have been in the teens for city driving and low twenties on the highway. Maintenance costs for the final generation are generally considered reasonable, as they share many mechanical components with other GM vehicles of the time, making parts relatively accessible.

Buick Roadmaster Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The Buick Roadmaster was offered in a wide variety of colors throughout its production run, reflecting the automotive styling trends of each era. The exterior design of the Roadmaster was always one of its key selling points, from the “torpedo” bodies of the 1940s to the iconic fins and chrome of the 1950s. The final generation featured a more contemporary, aerodynamic design, though still retaining a traditional full-size sedan and wagon silhouette. The dimensions of the Roadmaster varied with each generation, but it was always one of Buick’s largest vehicles. The 1996 sedan, for instance, had a length of 215.8 inches, a width of 78.1 inches, and a height of 55.9 inches, riding on a 115.9-inch wheelbase.

Buick Roadmaster Safety Features

Safety features in early generations of the Buick Roadmaster were rudimentary by modern standards. It wasn’t until the final generation that more modern safety features became available. The 1991-1996 models were equipped with features that were becoming standard in the industry at the time. This included:

• Driver-side airbag (later dual front airbags)
• Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
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Buick Roadmaster Infotainment and Connectivity

The concept of infotainment as we know it today did not exist during most of the Roadmaster’s production run. Early models featured AM radios as a premium option. By the final generation in the 1990s, the infotainment and connectivity features were more advanced for the time. This included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, and later, a CD player. These systems were often paired with premium sound systems to enhance the listening experience. However, features like touchscreens, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and navigation systems were not available during the Roadmaster’s production years.

Buick Roadmaster Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owners of the classic Buick Roadmaster models often praise the vehicles for their timeless styling, comfortable ride, and historical significance. These cars are cherished for their craftsmanship and the sense of nostalgia they evoke. For the final generation (1991-1996), owners frequently commend the powerful LT1 V8 engine, the spacious and comfortable interior, and the smooth, quiet ride. The station wagon, in particular, is praised for its immense cargo capacity and practicality. Common complaints for the later models often revolve around their large size, which can make them cumbersome in tight spaces, and their fuel consumption. Overall, the final generation of the Roadmaster is often regarded as a reliable and durable vehicle, with a loyal following of enthusiasts.

Buick Roadmaster Comparison with Similar Cars

In its early years, the Buick Roadmaster competed with other premium American cars such as the Chrysler New Yorker and the Mercury Monterey. It was positioned as a step above mainstream brands like Chevrolet and Ford, but below the ultimate luxury of Cadillac. In its final iteration, the Roadmaster’s main competitors were other full-size, rear-wheel-drive American sedans and wagons, including its corporate siblings, the Chevrolet Caprice and the Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser, as well as the Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis. Compared to these rivals, the Roadmaster offered a more luxurious interior and a smoother, more comfortable ride, in line with Buick’s brand identity. The availability of the potent LT1 V8 engine also gave it a performance advantage over some of its competitors.

Buick Roadmaster Awards and Recognition

While a comprehensive list of awards for the early generations is not readily available, the final generation of the Buick Roadmaster was well-regarded. A notable recognition includes:

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Interesting Facts about Buick Roadmaster

• The name “Roadmaster” was chosen after a test model performed exceptionally well on the open highway.
• The iconic “VentiPorts” on the fenders of the 1949 Roadmaster were inspired by the exhaust ports of a fighter plane and were initially conceived by a Buick designer on his personal car.
• A 1949 Buick Roadmaster convertible was famously featured in the 1988 film “Rain Man,” which has significantly increased the desirability and value of that particular model year.
• The final generation Roadmaster Estate wagon was one of the last full-size, traditional American station wagons ever produced.

Buick Roadmaster Legacy and Influence

The Buick Roadmaster holds a significant place in American automotive history as a symbol of post-war prosperity and the open road. For decades, it represented the pinnacle of the Buick brand, offering a blend of style, comfort, and performance that appealed to discerning buyers. Its legacy is one of a quintessential American luxury car from a bygone era. The final generation marked the end of an era for the traditional, full-size, rear-wheel-drive American car, as the market shifted towards smaller, more fuel-efficient vehicles and SUVs. Today, the Roadmaster is a cherished classic, with a strong following of collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique place in automotive history.

Buick Roadmaster Global Availability

The Buick Roadmaster was primarily designed for and sold in the North American market. While some models may have been privately exported to other countries over the years, it was not officially marketed on a global scale. In its early years, General Motors had a manufacturing presence in some international markets, and it is possible that some Roadmasters were assembled or sold in those locations. All production of the Roadmaster took place in the United States, and it was primarily available in a left-hand drive configuration.

Buick Roadmaster Maintenance and Ownership Costs

For classic Roadmaster models, maintenance and ownership costs can be substantial, particularly for parts that are no longer in production. Restorations can be expensive, and finding skilled mechanics can be a challenge. For the final generation (1991-1996), ownership costs are more manageable. The use of common GM parts means that many mechanical components are readily available and relatively affordable. Routine maintenance is straightforward for any qualified mechanic familiar with GM vehicles of that era. The resale value of the final generation Roadmaster has been appreciating, especially for well-maintained, low-mileage examples, making them a potential future classic.

Final Words about Buick Roadmaster

The Buick Roadmaster is a nameplate that evokes a sense of classic American automotive luxury and grandeur. From its stylish pre-war and post-war designs to its powerful and comfortable final iteration, the Roadmaster has consistently offered a premium driving experience. For those who appreciate vintage American cars, the early generations of the Roadmaster are highly desirable collectibles. The final generation offers a unique blend of classic American car character with more modern performance and amenities. While it is no longer in production, the Buick Roadmaster remains an important and fondly remembered chapter in Buick’s long and storied history, a true master of the road.