The rise of the Minivan and the SUV sounded the death knell for domestic Station Wagon production. With no plans for a revival, buyers must either focus on imports or turn their attention to the classic market for alternatives. This 1996 Buick Roadmaster Estate falls into the latter category and is a tidy survivor featuring the versatility of third-row seating. That makes it ideal for family adventures where the miles can pass effortlessly under its tires. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting this Buick listed here on Craigslist in Hamilton, Ohio. Hand the seller $10,500 and you could drive away behind the wheel of this tidy Wagon. However, the seller may consider reasonable offers if you find this Estate almost irresistible.

Buick seemingly retired the Roadmaster badge in 1958, but as sometimes happens, it enjoyed a revival many years later. The final generation entered the market for the 1991 model year, initially only available in Estate form. A Sedan would appear the following year, although the Roadmaster would once again disappear at the end of 1996. This final-year Estate presents extremely well in Light Driftwood Metallic with the faux woodgrain that was a defining feature. The supplied images reveal only a few minor cosmetic imperfections. The most challenging to address could be what appears to be slight damage to the woodgrain on the tailgate. Achieving a satisfactory match could be difficult because the vinyl often fades with age. However, I would be inclined to ignore the problem, because it doesn’t detract significantly from the Wagon’s overall appearance. The panels are straight, and rust isn’t an issue. The roof glass prevents rear seat occupants from feeling claustrophobic, and the lack of interior water damage confirms that its seal is in good condition.

The Roadmaster’s interior features an upgraded stereo. Otherwise, it is as it left the factory. The first owner loaded it with climate-control air conditioning, leather trim, power windows, power locks, third-row seating, and cruise control. Standard equipment included a couple of airbags and a tilt wheel, making this a well-equipped vehicle by the standards of the day. It has aged surprisingly well for a family Wagon with nearly three decades of active service under its belt. There are a few visible defects on the front center armrest, but the remaining upholstered surfaces are free from major issues. There is also what is fairly typical wheel wear, but no evidence of abuse or neglect. It looks extremely inviting, and would be a pretty comfortable place to spend many hours on those cross-country adventures.

The 1996 Sales Brochure confirms that this Roadmaster Estate has some muscle to match its looks. Lifting the hood reveals a 5.7-liter V8, which sends 260hp and 330 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a four-speed automatic transmission. Power steering was standard equipment in 1996, as were anti-lock brakes. The seller doesn’t inundate us with information surrounding the Wagon’s mechanical health, but neither do they make outlandish claims regarding its odometer reading. The impression provided is that this Buick is ready to hit the road with its new owner behind the wheel.

The Station Wagon was a mainstay of the American new car market for decades, but these vehicles fell from favor as manufacturers offered tempting alternatives. The 1996 model year marked the end of the line for the Buick Roadmaster, with only 8,962 buyers handing over the cash for an Estate. The company deemed the badge no longer financially viable, with the final vehicles rolling off the line in December 1996. This one looks like a gem that hasn’t suffered the wear and tear often associated with family Wagons. If you have been in the market, could you be tempted by this Buick?