The 1996 Buick Roadmaster is noteworthy for a couple of reasons, with one being that this year marked the final year of production, both for the sedan and the station wagon. Another strong point, literally, is what can be found under the hood, which we’ll dig into below. With the popularity of minivans by this period, it’s great that these wagons soldiered on as long as they did, and this one here on eBay is a low-mileage example that appears well cared for. This full-size family mover is located in La Salle, Michigan, with the current bid of $5,000 still not enough to lift the reserve.
Only one engine was available in the last Roadmaster, but it was a good one, and you can boast that your wagon features the same powerplant that was found in the base Corvette. Although it was detuned a bit, the LT1 V8 provided drivers with 260 HP, not all that much less than the 300 offered by the ‘Vette. These more powerful motors were only in the 1994-1996 models, making them more desirable than the earlier eighth-generation cars and wagons. This one’s also only traveled a total of 46,702 miles, with the seller describing its operation as smooth and reliable.
Outside, the sheet metal appears well-preserved, with the owner confirming that there is no rust or other corrosion present anywhere on the body. However, this one was resprayed a few years ago, due to the paint being faded. While the white sections have been refreshed, the simulated wood has not, so the side and rear sections would benefit from some fresh wrapping. We’re also provided with a peek from the underside, which seems to show a bit of surface rust on the exhaust, but the rest of the visible area appears solid.
The positives regarding the interior are plentiful, as not only is it stated to still be in like-new condition, but all of the options are also said to still be functioning properly. The best news inside is probably the number of seats, as this one’s got the desirable third row, allowing the occupants farthest from the driver to easily wave at all the cars being passed when that LT1 is opened up. I’m seeing several favorable factors for this 1996 Buick Roadmaster Limited station wagon, and am also curious where the seller may have set his reserve. What’s a reasonable price to pay for one with the hefty engine and such low mileage?
Looks like rubber trim on both sides and tailgate are AWOL.
These are great highway cruisers. A friend has one, he drives it any time a trip includes a freeway component. This looks nice, but based on its location and repaint, I’d want to see it in person. I would expect a reserve closer to $10,000 than the current high bid of $5,000.
Steve R
Trailer tow pkg brought all the HD goodies on-board. Love these wagons. 5000lb tow rating.
Mike, I’m happy to see you describe the engine as a “detuned” version of the Corvette LT1. Many folks describe it simply as a “Corvette engine”, and that’s not true. This has iron heads while the Corvette has aluminum heads, and the Roadmaster also got a smaller cam. At any rate, this looks like a clean car and should trundle the new owner down the road gently.
Great looking car until you see that horrible blue interior
The side moldings were junk new and when fried in hot sun, forget it. 46,000 miles is very low. I’d change every fluid and rustproof underneath with Fluid Film. Nothing built today comes close to comfort you get in these.
Looks like a pretty clean v8 wagon. A lot of these are showing up recently
Yes, a lot showing up lately, but they are either pristine ($$$) or worn out ($).This falls right in the center, a nice one however. It will need attention, but if one could secure it for under $15k, I would say it was well bought if one realized that an investment is going to be required but will net you a fine wagon! The blue interior does give me pause…someone hit the wrong box on the spec sheet.
Ended at 10K.
Reserve Not Met.
29 bids.