Buick Roadmaster (5th generation)
The pinnacle of post-war American luxury, defined by its 'Fireball' straight-eight and iconic VentiPorts.
- Power
- 152 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 15.5 s
- Top speed
- 99 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$65k
About the Buick Roadmaster
The 1951 Buick Roadmaster represented the height of General Motors' premium offering, sitting just below Cadillac in the hierarchy. It was powered by the final iterations of the 'Fireball' straight-eight engine, a smooth but aging overhead-valve design that would soon be replaced by the V8. The 1951 model year is distinguished by its massive 'bucktooth' chrome grille and the presence of four 'VentiPorts' on the front wings, a hallmark of the top-tier Roadmaster trim. Driving a Roadmaster is a lesson in mid-century American comfort, featuring the torque-converter Dynaflow transmission which prioritised smoothness over rapid acceleration.
Buick Roadmaster specs
The Buick Roadmaster produces 152 bhp (113 kW) and 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 15.5 seconds and has a top speed of 99 mph (160 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadmaster |
| Generation | Fifth Generation (5th generation) |
| Trim | 5.2 |
| Years | 1949–1953 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $3,100 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre Fireball straight-eight |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,247 cc (5.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 152 bhp (113 kW) at 3,600 rpm |
| Torque | 380 Nm (280 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 15.5 s |
| Top speed | 99 mph (160 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed Dynaflow automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,940 kg (4,277 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 78 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Roadmaster worth?
A typical Buick Roadmaster is estimated to be worth $18,000 – $65,000 (about £13,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,100.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Roadmaster rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Roadmaster is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 32 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Roadmaster fun facts
- The 'VentiPorts' introduced on the Roadmaster were originally inspired by fighter plane exhausts, though by 1951 they were purely decorative trim pieces.
- The 1951 Roadmaster featured a new 'sweepspear' chrome side moulding that would become a Buick styling staple for the next decade.
- Despite its size, the Roadmaster was a popular choice for customisers and lead-sled builders due to its flowing lines and substantial chrome brightwork.
