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?
already deleted. i’m sure its new owner will love it. To bad no engine bay pics considering the engine transplant
The fourth picture.
Somebody got a very good deal on this beauty. Well done.
It’s obvious that beige was a very popular color for these.
That Jasper engine in this car is a huge plus. They have been rebuilding engines for probably close to 100 years. My experience with them goes back 60 years of no issues ever. They have also been rebuilding transmissions for at least 20 years. A quality company that puts out quality products!
They rebuilt my 273 Commando in my 67 Barracuda Formula S. They left the threaded plug in the oil journal closest to the oil pump out. When I started it for the first time, I had no oil pressure. They refused to build me a new short block. I had to remove and reinstall the motor at my expense. They wouldn’t pay for labor. I returned the motor. They said they inspected everything and it was ok. Who knows what they did? I only put 500 miles on it before buying a 70 340 with X heads to put in it. Car screams at only 2700 lbs with it’s 3.55 Sure Grip. I still have the 273 Commando in the garage.
not surprised at that price. seller gave it away.
Those wood grain transfers were seldom right. Wrinkles, mismatched grain and bubbles. We sold an Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser to a client who bought one that was a real mess so I inherited him.
I suggested we two-tone the car and he was in favor. It was a dark brown and he chose the same color as this Buick for the accent shade. Oldsmobile approved the change because they knew how problematic the transfers were and it only cost $12 more to paint it.
Why are all the good deals out in Oregon, Washington, British Columbia and Vancouver? While they might be excellent buys at good prices, they are no bargain for us in the northeast who would nearly double their initial investment in bringing them back here. How about better coverage of cars from Maine to Pennsylvania? A great many of us are nowhere near to cars in the northwest!
The issue is tin worm infestation back where you are. I had the same issues when I lived in Northern Illinois/Chicago area. One of the reasons I moved to Northern Nevada. We don’t have any of the rust issues. But we do have baked interior issues. BUT Oregon is only 3 hours away. So I still feel I’m in the correct place for my car addiction. You just have to move like I did. (Sorry)
Most of the cars featured here are submissions from readers. There are a couple of heavy submitters from that area, so they end up getting featured more.
Plus, there just isn’t many great deals to be had on nice cars in the northeast, thanks to the tin worm.
Yes, like anything in life, there are exceptions, so you can get lucky if you hunt hard enough.
With all due respect, Wayne, My 1988 Mercury Grand Marquis, which I drive nearly every day, and the which is now nearing 412,000 original miles, still is unattacked by the tin-worm. This CAN be done, even here in Adirondack snow country, where we still have some winter snow left on the ground. In the wintertime, you CHOOSE which days to drive, when the pavements are dry. And I see lots of older cars that are either rust-free or close to it. It takes CARE, and SOME owners exercise it. But when I see these late model jelly bean cars plastered in splashed-on-and-dried-on smears from wet salt and sand, it is NO WONDER that they rot away! And yet, right down the street from me is an unrestored 1949 Pontiac two door sedan with a crack all rhe way from top-to-bottom in the driver’s side window, still wearing its original fading green body paint and dull white top.
I agree with the care part. I had car that was notorious for rust issues. That the dealer couldn’t belive with not a spec of rust when recalled for rust issues. I took care of it and it showed. Unfortunately most people don’t know how or care to know. And that’s why so many are in rough shape today. The northwest is not dry like Nevada, but lack of salt on the road and alot of rain to flush out any dirt trying hide.