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1996
Buick Roadmaster

Starts at:
$25,560
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New 1996 Buick Roadmaster
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Available trims

See the differences side-by-side to compare trims.
  • 4dr Sdn Collectors Edition
    Starts at
    $25,560
    17 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Sdn Limited Collectors Edition
    Starts at
    $27,490
    17 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs
  • 4dr Wgn Estate Collectors Edition
    Starts at
    $27,575
    17 City / 26 Hwy
    MPG
    6
    Seat capacity
    Rear Wheel Drive
    Drivetrain
    See all specs

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Expert 1996 Buick Roadmaster review

our expert's take
Our expert's take
By
Full article
our expert's take

IT WAS TIME to say goodbye to the man and the car. The man was my father, Daniel T. Brown Sr., who died June 20 at 83. The car was the Buick Roadmaster, which expired this summer.

The two shared more than season of departure. They were big, conservative and peculiarly American. They had attitude.

A lifelong teacher, my father understood the importance of discipline, work, merit and serving one’s country. For Daddy, that also meant “buy American,” which mostly meant buying General Motors when it came to cars.

My father and late mother, Lillian, owned a number of GM automobiles, mostly Chevrolets. When they came into a bit more money, Daddy wanted a more substantial car, “a big Buick,” he said. But Mom wanted a Cadillac, and got it.

So, I figured it only fair to drive the last of the Roadmasters, the biggest of Buicks, to my father’s funeral. That, plus the American flag honoring his Army service in World War II, was a fitting tribute to a life well lived.

Background: The hard truth is that the Roadmaster is gone because many of its would-be buyers, like my father, are gone — or going. Buick officials said the average age of Roadmaster buyers is 65. Those buyers don’t tend to be repeat customers.

That’s why Buick this summer ended production of the big, rear-wheel drive Roadmaster, whose name originally appeared in the Buick lineup in 1936 and continued through the 1958 model year. The name was reintroduced on the 1991 Roadmaster Estate Wagon and 1992 Roadmaster sedan.

But the new Roadmaster’s sales were dismal, falling 19 percent to 6,512 cars sold in the first four months of this year from a skimpy 8,037 sold in the same period last year. A similar fate affected the like-bodied Chevrolet Caprice and Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham models, which also ended production this summer.

Despite their considerable girth, I’m going to miss these cars. They were as comfortable as they were large. Every one of them, in fact, was a master of the road, especially on leisurely cross-country trips.

And, Lordy, they were loaded! Power everything: windows, door locks, front seats, steering, brakes. You only needed a few fingers and right foot to drive these cars.

Standard equipment on all Roadmasters included anti-lock brakes, dual air bags, electronically controlled air conditioning and analog gauges. Also standard was a 5.7-liter V-8 engine rated 260 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with torque rated 330 pound-feet at 2,400 rpm.

And, of course, an electronically controlled, four-speed automatic transmission was standard.

Complaints: The bigness of it all — nearly 18-feet-long and seven-feet wide, weighing 4,211 pounds.

Praise: The bigness of it all, plus overall craftsmanship, “roadability” and comfort. If you like big cars, you’ll love this one, which is still hanging around some Buick dealer lots.

Head-turning quotient: A thing of great dignity.

Ride, acceleration and handling: Float, zoom and float. Th e test Roadmaster’s big V-8 took the worry out of lane changes, an often frightening experience in New Orleans traffic. Braking was excellent.

Mileage: About 23 miles per gallon (23-gallon tank, estimated 510-milerange on usable volume of recommended premium unleaded), combined city-highway, running with one to six occupants and a fully-loaded trunk (21 cubic feet).

Sound system: AM/FM stereo radio and cassette with compact disc, GM/Delco. Excellent.

Price: Base price on tested 1996 Buick Roadmaster Limited sedan is $27,490. Dealer invoice on base model is $25,153. Price as tested is $29,025, including $945 in options and a $590 destination charge.

Purse-strings note: Prices on leftover 1996 Roadmasters (and companion Chevrolet Caprice and Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham models) are highly negotiable. Shop carefully. Also consider buying used for an even better deal.

1996 Buick Roadmaster review: Our expert's take
By

IT WAS TIME to say goodbye to the man and the car. The man was my father, Daniel T. Brown Sr., who died June 20 at 83. The car was the Buick Roadmaster, which expired this summer.

The two shared more than season of departure. They were big, conservative and peculiarly American. They had attitude.

A lifelong teacher, my father understood the importance of discipline, work, merit and serving one’s country. For Daddy, that also meant “buy American,” which mostly meant buying General Motors when it came to cars.

My father and late mother, Lillian, owned a number of GM automobiles, mostly Chevrolets. When they came into a bit more money, Daddy wanted a more substantial car, “a big Buick,” he said. But Mom wanted a Cadillac, and got it.

So, I figured it only fair to drive the last of the Roadmasters, the biggest of Buicks, to my father’s funeral. That, plus the American flag honoring his Army service in World War II, was a fitting tribute to a life well lived.

Background: The hard truth is that the Roadmaster is gone because many of its would-be buyers, like my father, are gone — or going. Buick officials said the average age of Roadmaster buyers is 65. Those buyers don’t tend to be repeat customers.

That’s why Buick this summer ended production of the big, rear-wheel drive Roadmaster, whose name originally appeared in the Buick lineup in 1936 and continued through the 1958 model year. The name was reintroduced on the 1991 Roadmaster Estate Wagon and 1992 Roadmaster sedan.

But the new Roadmaster’s sales were dismal, falling 19 percent to 6,512 cars sold in the first four months of this year from a skimpy 8,037 sold in the same period last year. A similar fate affected the like-bodied Chevrolet Caprice and Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham models, which also ended production this summer.

Despite their considerable girth, I’m going to miss these cars. They were as comfortable as they were large. Every one of them, in fact, was a master of the road, especially on leisurely cross-country trips.

And, Lordy, they were loaded! Power everything: windows, door locks, front seats, steering, brakes. You only needed a few fingers and right foot to drive these cars.

Standard equipment on all Roadmasters included anti-lock brakes, dual air bags, electronically controlled air conditioning and analog gauges. Also standard was a 5.7-liter V-8 engine rated 260 horsepower at 5,000 rpm with torque rated 330 pound-feet at 2,400 rpm.

And, of course, an electronically controlled, four-speed automatic transmission was standard.

Complaints: The bigness of it all — nearly 18-feet-long and seven-feet wide, weighing 4,211 pounds.

Praise: The bigness of it all, plus overall craftsmanship, “roadability” and comfort. If you like big cars, you’ll love this one, which is still hanging around some Buick dealer lots.

Head-turning quotient: A thing of great dignity.

Ride, acceleration and handling: Float, zoom and float. Th e test Roadmaster’s big V-8 took the worry out of lane changes, an often frightening experience in New Orleans traffic. Braking was excellent.

Mileage: About 23 miles per gallon (23-gallon tank, estimated 510-milerange on usable volume of recommended premium unleaded), combined city-highway, running with one to six occupants and a fully-loaded trunk (21 cubic feet).

Sound system: AM/FM stereo radio and cassette with compact disc, GM/Delco. Excellent.

Price: Base price on tested 1996 Buick Roadmaster Limited sedan is $27,490. Dealer invoice on base model is $25,153. Price as tested is $29,025, including $945 in options and a $590 destination charge.

Purse-strings note: Prices on leftover 1996 Roadmasters (and companion Chevrolet Caprice and Cadillac Fleetwood Brougham models) are highly negotiable. Shop carefully. Also consider buying used for an even better deal.

Certified Pre-Owned program benefits

Age / mileage
5 model years or newer / up to 75,000 miles
Basic
12 months / 12,000 miles bumper-to-bumper original warranty, then may continue to 6 years / 100,000 miles limited (depending on variables)
Dealer certification
172-point inspection

Consumer reviews

4.9 / 5
Based on 14 reviews
Write a review
Comfort 5.0
Interior 4.5
Performance 4.9
Value 4.9
Exterior 4.9
Reliability 4.9

Most recent

  • The Calgon of Stationwagons...

    I bought this '96 Roadmaster Estate wagon from a friend. The 'Vette engine puts today's crossovers, hatchbacks, SUVs and wagons to shame. Rearward facing 3rd row, front seats are like a pair of lazy-boy recliners. So what it's as big as a boat, it floats down the roads like one too! Drives smooth like a Caddy, acceleration like a muscle car. Enough space to stretch on road trips near or far. Woodgrain sides are just added to the classy laid back ambiance of this whip. What's not to love? Just radiates an easier time and place, just sit back and enjoy 😉 calmer pace in comfort and peace.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 3.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No
  • Lt1 sleeper

    This car is roomy, super comfortable. Compared to my Grandma's 90k Lexus, she'd rather I drive her in my Buick. It's a beast. Lt1 engine , Corvette engine. It moves when you say move, if you get me.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Having fun
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    13 people out of 13 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Good car, but it just got OLD!

    It was a great station wagon, relliable when new, one of the largest, and we made a number of long vacation trips in it. Lots of room in the 'way back' and a 3rd seat back there. But, it got old and lacked modern safety features so it was time to change.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does not recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    7 people out of 8 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • I Love This Car!

    After Driving The Bronco, Odyssey, F-150, Corvette, And Several Other Ones, I Like This One! The Seats Are Comfortable. And Of Course. Air Runs Well!
    • Purchased a New car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 3.0
    Value 4.0
    Exterior 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • My favorite all-time vehicle (Estate Limited)

    Bullet-proof LT1 engine, excellent build quality, durability and reliability. Ass the name indicates, this is an excellent highway car, makes cross-country travel a breeze. Astonishing cargo capacity and versatility.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 4.0
    Reliability 5.0
    0 people out of 0 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Super Reliable

    This vehicle is spacious, dependable and comfortable. It is very easy to maintain. The most that I have had to do with this car is change tires. replace the battery and repair the brakes. The gas mileage is also good for a vehicle of this size.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Smoothest riding car made

    The Buick 1994-96 Buick Roadmaster Wagons are quit possibly the best wagons ever made by any auto maker!! LT1 Corvette Engine is very responsive Full Body Frame for Protection Cargo area accommodates 6 ft. sheet of plywood and more than any big SUV I have driven Gas mileage range 18+ mpg in town and 25+ mpg on highway Very stylish and classic
    • Purchased a New car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    1 person out of 1 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Classic l996 Buick Roadmaster Wagon

    If you want a very useful vehicle, not only for passengers, but also close to the hauling capacity of a pickup, this is your best choice. With the LT 1 corvette V8 engine, plenty of power, nice smooth ride. A REAL automobile. Great for road trips or about town. Try to find one with the lowest mileage, then do any repairs needed, and this baby will last you a long time.
    • Purchased a New car
    • Used for Towing
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 4.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Everyone who can afford one- GET IT

    If you drive the highways and byways this is one safe car. It has actual metal and a real frame, not a unibody. Ya hit a pot hole your liver isn't damaged, the dynaride is spectacular. No leg cramping front or rear, plenty of room if you have flamingo legs! And a real trunk, boy ya can pack it up with stuff, you can eat in their to. And mine has a real tire, not a freakin donut thing. I bought mine a week ago and wouldn't trade it for nothing.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    4 people out of 4 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • Reliable Roadmonster

    The last truly American driving machine! Very ample V8 power, and great fuel mileage for a big car. The ride cannot be beat! Luxurious interior with leather seats and all the buttons. The most trouble-free car I've owned and have only done regular maintenance . You can drive this car all day long on the interstate. It is truly a road car.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • One tough car.

    This has to be the strongest car ever built without being a truck. Smooth luxurious ride, comfort and able to haul and tow. An unusual vehicle. Last real full size station wagon made.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Transporting family
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 5.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    3 people out of 3 found this review helpful. Did you?
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  • One of Buick's best!

    Bought the Roadmaster in 2009 and found it to be probably the best car I've ever owned. I've driven Buicks all my life uncluding Skylarks, Rivieras and Electras and this is by far the most comfortable car I've ever driven. Car has been extremely reliable and gas mileage is surprisingly good for a car this size. No recalls for this year except wheels lug nuts not tightened properly at factory. I would recommend this car to anyone who likes a real full size sedan and wants a trouble free, reliable automobile.
    • Purchased a Used car
    • Used for Commuting
    • Does recommend this car
    Comfort 5.0
    Interior 4.0
    Performance 5.0
    Value 5.0
    Exterior 5.0
    Reliability 5.0
    2 people out of 2 found this review helpful. Did you?
    Yes No

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FAQ

What trim levels are available for the 1996 Buick Roadmaster?

The 1996 Buick Roadmaster is available in 3 trim levels:

  • Collectors Edition (1 style)
  • Estate Collectors Edition (1 style)
  • Limited Collectors Edition (1 style)

What is the MPG of the 1996 Buick Roadmaster?

The 1996 Buick Roadmaster offers up to 17 MPG in city driving and 26 MPG on the highway. These figures are based on EPA mileage ratings and are for comparison purposes only. The actual mileage will vary depending on vehicle options, trim level, driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and other factors.

Is the 1996 Buick Roadmaster reliable?

The 1996 Buick Roadmaster has an average reliability rating of 4.9 out of 5 according to cars.com consumers. Find real-world reliability insights within consumer reviews from 1996 Buick Roadmaster owners.

Is the 1996 Buick Roadmaster a good Sedan?

Below are the cars.com consumers ratings for the 1996 Buick Roadmaster. 92.9% of drivers recommend this vehicle.

4.9 / 5
Based on 14 reviews
  • Comfort: 5.0
  • Interior: 4.5
  • Performance: 4.9
  • Value: 4.9
  • Exterior: 4.9
  • Reliability: 4.9
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