August 25, 2021 Update – we confirmed the second seller of this Buick Roadmaster “Classifind” deleted their listing, so we’re now able to call this one “SOLD!” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

August 10, 2021 Update – When we came across the listing for this ’1996 Buick Roadmaster, not only did it look familiar but the seller’s two-year ownership and location ties with when this LT1-powered wagon was last offered for sale. Two years ago the previous owner offered the car for $3,495 but two years later the current caretaker wants $5,500 for it.

Original July 2019 Post – We saw this Light Adriatic Blue over Blue Leather 1996 Buick Roadmaster Collector’s Edition post on Craigslist in July 2019 in Feasterville, Pennsylvania, and immediately fell in love with it!  Candidly at this price point, we’re very tempted to make this a GuysWithRides Mascot!  The caretaker of this pretty wagon since 2007 is currently asking $3,495.  The NADA Classic, Collectible, Exotic, and Muscle Car Appraisal Guide currently lists their “Low”, “Average”, and “High” value range for these wagons at $2,300, $3,775, and $5,375, respectively so the seller has his Roadmaster reasonably priced.  We do note that this station wagon does not appear to be registered, so the seller may be motivated for a quick sale.

1996 was the final year for the GM full frame classic wagons such as the example presented here.  We love the color combination of this Roadmaster and love the fact that id does not have faux wood paneling on the sides.  The private seller states that his Roadmaster is equipped with the factory towing package, which means with the Corvette-derived LT1 V8 under the hood this station wagon can tow up to 7,000 pounds by doing the following:  install a weight-distributing hitch, dual sway controls, setting rear tire pressure to 35 PSI, and disabling the Electronic Level Control.  The towing package added 2.93 rear-axle gears and a limited-slip differential, a heavy-duty cooling system including oil and transmission coolers, and a factory-installed self-leveling rear suspension consisting of air shocks, a height sensor between the rear axle and body, and an on-board air compressor. Most visibly, a pair of electric fans offset to the left under the hood was replaced by the combination of one conventional fan-driven mechanically from the engine alongside one electric fan.  The seller notes that he replaced the original higher ratio, however, a unit similar to what came from the factory will be included as part of the sale.

Here’s some additional information the seller provides about the condition of this Roadmaster’s body: “There are a variety of surface dings in the body and side stainless trim. The left inner fender/splash shield has rot as does the right 1/4 panel just behind the tire and in front of the spare tire well. The tire well area is SOLID. Replacement inner fenders go with the car when sold. Left quarter panel at rear/ bottom needs body repair (see picture). Unfortunately, we do not see what the seller is talking about so please comment below on what you discover during your in-person inspection.

This Roadmaster represents the best of both worlds:  a full-size classic American station wagon equipped with an easily tunable Corvette LT1 V8 and modern OBD II diagnostics with comfort and luxury for long-distance traveling.  While its not perfect, the seller does provide a slew of parts needed to take this station wagon to the next level.  We predict by buying this example the only way you would lose money is by driving it off a cliff.  Good luck with the purchase!