Buick Roadmaster
The Buick Roadmaster represents two distinct eras, first as Buick's flagship luxury model from 1936-1958. It's also known for its 1990s revival as one of the last traditional, full-size American cars.
Buick Roadmaster sold for a median of $12,650 over the last 12 months, based on 52 auction sales; the middle 50% sold between $6,425 and $21,300. 420 currently for sale.
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Seen across 8 sites in the last 30 days.
Buick Roadmaster prices by year
| Year | Median (3 yrs) | Middle 50% | Sales (3 yrs) | For sale now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1936 | $18k | – | 3 | 1 |
| 1937 | $26k | – | 2 | 3 |
| 1938 | $25k | – | 3 | 0 |
| 1939 | $37k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1940 | $48k | – | 1 | 8 |
| 1941 | $79k | – | 3 | 5 |
| 1946 | – | – | 0 | 1 |
| 1947 | $26k | – | 3 | 6 |
| 1948 | $34k | $6.2k–$35k | 7 | 9 |
| 1949 | $36k | $21k–$41k | 7 | 11 |
| 1950 | $23k | – | 2 | 3 |
| 1951 | $5k | – | 1 | 5 |
| 1952 | – | – | 0 | 6 |
| 1953 | $34k | $28k–$55k | 5 | 5 |
| 1954 | $79k | – | 3 | 4 |
| 1955 | $39k | – | 3 | 14 |
| 1956 | $14k | $10k–$19k | 5 | 3 |
| 1957 | $35k | $25k–$48k | 4 | 8 |
| 1958 | $23k | – | 3 | 4 |
| 1990 | $6.5k | – | 1 | 0 |
| 1991 | $16k | $9.3k–$17k | 6 | 8 |
| 1992 | $8.4k | $6.2k–$11k | 10 | 60 |
| 1993 | $13k | $8.6k–$17k | 12 | 37 |
| 1994 | $14k | $3k–$20k | 11 | 67 |
| 1995 | $9.1k | $2.7k–$12k | 22 | 60 |
| 1996 | $12k | $8.4k–$16k | 44 | 67 |
Auction sales in the last 3 years; prices leave out salvage and other branded titles.
Listings
The Buick Roadmaster nameplate bookends two distinct eras of American automotive history. From 1936 to 1958, it served as Buick's flagship, representing the pinnacle of the brand's luxury and styling. After a long hiatus, it returned from 1991 to 1996 as a full-size, rear-wheel-drive sedan and wagon, becoming one of the last of its kind from a major American manufacturer.
Collectors are drawn to both generations for different reasons. The early models, particularly the pre-war cars, post-war convertibles, and iconic woodie wagons, are celebrated for their dramatic styling and historical significance. The final 1990s generation, especially the wagon, has gained a large following as a modern classic. Its appeal lies in its combination of practicality, comfort, and the surprising performance of the 260-horsepower 5.7L LT1 V8 engine it received from 1994 to 1996.
The market for Roadmasters is broad, which explains the wide sales range. The average price of around $17,000 is heavily influenced by the large number of 1990s models trading hands, which offer a lot of car for the money. Pristine, low-mileage 1990s wagons can bring over $40,000, while concours-quality 1940s and 1950s convertibles and woodies can sell for more than $100,000.
Buying Tips
- For 1994-1996 models, the LT1 V8's Opti-Spark distributor is a known weak point located behind the water pump, making replacement labor-intensive.
- Check wagon models for rust around the rear quarter windows and ensure the 'Vista Roof' glass is in good condition. The rear-facing third-row seat is a desirable option.
- On classic 'woodie' wagons, the condition of the wood is critical. Inspect carefully for rot, delamination, and poor refinishing, as proper wood restoration is a specialized and expensive process.
- Sourcing chrome trim and specific body panels for pre-1958 models can be difficult and costly, so finding a complete, solid car is a priority. Check for rust in the floors, trunk, and lower body panels.
Prices range from under $500 for non-running project cars to $150,000 for concours-quality classic examples.
1,396 Buick Roadmaster vehicles have been tracked across auctions and listings on Hypercars, with 420 currently live.
Data sourced from auction results and dealer and private listings, including Bring a Trailer, Cars & Bids, Mecum, RM Sotheby’s and eBay Motors. Updated daily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Buick Roadmaster cost?
Over the last 12 months, Buick Roadmaster sold for a median of $12,650 across 52 auction sales tracked on Hypercars; the middle 50% sold between $6,425 and $21,300. There are 420 currently for sale.
How many Buick Roadmaster listings are for sale right now?
There are 420 Buick Roadmaster listings currently live across auctions, dealers, and marketplaces tracked by Hypercars.