Nearly Showroom? 1995 Buick Roadmaster Nine-Seat Estate

Regular readers will undoubtedly know that classic Station Wagons hold a place close to my heart. However, I am a late convert who is guilty of ignoring these versatile vehicles for decades. Vans and SUVs have driven the domestic Wagon out of the market, with those seeking one forced to focus on imports. There is an alternative for patient souls: to scour the market for good secondhand examples. That description seemingly encapsulates this 1995 Buick Roadmaster Estate. The seller states that it is in virtually showroom condition, and their images initially support that claim. Adding to its appeal is the fresh V8 under the hood and the third-row seat, making this classic capable of accommodating nine people. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Tony P for spotting the Buick listed here on Craigslist in Portland, Oregon. The seller set their non-negotiable price at $7,950, making it an affordable option for those with large families.

The Roadmaster badge had been a staple of Buick’s model range since the 1930s, and when the company discontinued it at the end of 1958, many people thought that it would never re-emerge. However, that wasn’t the case, with the company performing a revival in 1991. Sadly, the automotive landscape had changed dramatically, and the Roadmaster would quietly disappear at the end of 1996 as sales floundered. This Estate left the line in 1995, ordered by its first owner in Light Driftwood Metallic. The seller describes the vehicle’s overall condition as “nearly showroom.” There is no disputing the fact that it makes a positive first impression. The paint shines impressively, the panels are straight, and there is no evidence of rust on this garage-kept classic. However, I believe they are being slightly optimistic. The rear bumper shows some damage and would require a repaint to look perfect. That isn’t the worst news, because the woodgrain has flaws. Although it doesn’t sound dramatic, it poses unique challenges. Unlike paint, it is virtually impossible to achieve a perfect match when repairing this type of vinyl. That means that the new owner could accept the status quo, or they could hand the Wagon to a vinyl wrap company that may have something suitable to serve as a total woodgrain replacement. I noticed a couple of trim dings, but the glass is good.

This Roadmaster sends mixed messages because its interior presentation is a step above the exterior. Trimmed in Tan leather, the driver’s seat appears to have a small rip. The remaining upholstered surfaces show no such problems, while the dash, pad, and plastic are excellent. The carpet is in good condition for such a pale shade, and the damage-prone rear cargo area is free from signs of abuse or neglect. This Estate features the safety and creature comforts buyers expected from Buick in 1995, including dual airbags, air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, cruise control, a tilt wheel, a rear defogger, and an AM/FM radio/cassette player. Its party piece for enthusiasts with families is the third-row seat, making this Roadmaster a nine-seater.

Initially launched with the 5.0-liter L03 V8 in 1991, Buick raised the bar by adding the 5.7-liter LT1 powerplant as the only available motor in 1995. The change was worthwhile because, while the small motor produced 170hp and 255 ft/lbs of torque at the Wagon’s debut, the LT1 boosted those figures to 260hp and 335 ft/lbs. Naturally, outright performance improved dramatically, providing an effortless driving experience. The four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and anti-lock power brakes further emphasized that impression. The seller confirms that this Buick is no longer numbers-matching. However, that isn’t bad news, because it recently received a correct Jasper Performance Corvette LT1 Crate Motor. The remaining mechanical components have received significant attention, ensuring this turnkey Wagon is ready for summer vacation adventures.

This 1995 Buick Roadmaster Estate isn’t perfect, but that is hardly surprising after three decades of active service. However, its flaws are relatively minor and don’t detract from the Wagon’s appearance as an exceptionally tidy driver. The fresh V8 is a bonus, as is the third-row seating. Recent successful sales suggest that the seller’s price is realistic, and when you combine those factors, I believe it will easily find a new home. Are you tempted to make it yours?