Not a Roadmaster, But a Road Monster

When it first launched, the Roadmaster was touted as a traditional old-school family vehicle that left little room for curiosity or intrigue.

Features like third-row seating and unassuming wood paneling pushed the Roadmaster into a market of drivers who needed a spacious vehicle but wanted to forgo that bulky look of an old-school minivan.

The Roadmaster was also offered in a smaller sedan body style, perfectly suited for smaller families who still wanted plenty of space. An elongated body with sharp geometric curves and a slightly lower profile were all distinguishing factors of a Roadmaster.

The Roadmaster Was Built on Unsuspecting Power

Despite this unassuming exterior, the Roadmaster offered a powerhouse underneath the hood. Early models came equipped with a 5.0 L V8 engine that was paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission and delivered 170 horsepower. At the time, this engine was unmatched by other wagons of the time. Over time, the engine configuration changed to meet driver demands and by 1994, the Roadmaster was fitted with an impressive 5.7L LT1 V8 engine that delivered 260 horsepower and stellar drive and handling. Over time, access to this powerful engine grew on drivers allowing them to seek out the Roadmaster as a force to be reckoned with.

From Humble Beginnings To Icon Status

In its early days, the Roadmaster both in its sedan and station wagon body style was often looked at as an unappealing vehicle. Over time, however, these vehicles developed into an instantly recognizable symbol and eventually developed a cult-like following that still exists today. This devoted following has also helped propel the Roadmaster into the coveted Thought of an all-American classic car.

For many young drivers, that nostalgic feeling of an “old folks” vehicle has cast a new light on the Roadmaster wagon.

Unlike the early days when the engine helped propel its popularity, today it’s seemingly more so the aesthetic. Do a quick search online and you’ll find over 52,000 posts on Instagram touting the hashtag Roadmaster.

Practicality Is the Cherry on Top

Further adding to the Roadmaster’s popularity is the practical appeal it offers. Since its first debut as an aesthetically appealing vehicle, the Roadmaster has been able to transform itself into one of the most practical rides around. With a Kelley Blue Book value of just under $3,000, it doesn’t get any more affordable than this for a spacious vehicle with an engine that’s been proven to last.

Comfortably seating eight passengers, lugging around cargo thanks to the low profile, and having necessary accessories without the extra bells and whistles make the Roadmaster one of the most practical rides on the road.

When compared to the latest SUVs and minivans available, the Roadmaster does an exceptional job stripping down to offer only what drivers need and nothing more.

Try Out the Roadmaster for Yourself

All the features, or lack thereof, offered by the Roadmaster along with its powerful engine, and unwavering reliability have allowed this dinosaur of a vehicle to be an absolute road monster.

If you’re lucky, you too can get your hands on one of the nation’s most nostalgic vehicles. Visit your local Buick dealer today to learn more about the Roadmaster and possibly even test-drive one yourself.