Buick Roadmaster (1st generation)
The car that revitalised Buick and introduced the legendary Roadmaster nameplate.
- Power
- 120 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 18.5 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$55k
About the Buick Roadmaster
The 1936 Roadmaster marked a turning point for Buick, introducing a more streamlined 'Turret Top' styling and a powerful new overhead-valve straight-eight engine. As the Series 80, it sat just below the flagship Limited, offering high-end luxury and performance that rivalled Cadillac at a more accessible price point. Its 320 cubic-inch engine was so robust it remained the foundation of Buick's powerplants for nearly two decades. Collectors value the 1936 model for its significant role in Buick's sales recovery during the post-Depression era.
Buick Roadmaster specs
The Buick Roadmaster produces 120 bhp (89 kW) and 323 Nm (238 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 18.5 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadmaster |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 5.2 |
| Years | 1936–1937 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 16,049 built |
| Original price | About $1,300 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre Fireball straight-eight |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,247 cc (5.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 120 bhp (89 kW) at 3,200 rpm |
| Torque | 323 Nm (238 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 18.5 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,960 kg (4,321 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 61 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 – $55,000 (about £13,000 – £41,000).
Its original price when new was about $1,300.
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 a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 50 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 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
- 1936 was the first year Buick used names like Roadmaster, Special, and Century instead of just series numbers.
- The 320 cubic-inch straight-eight engine introduced this year was so successful it stayed in production until 1952.
- The 1936 Roadmaster featured hydraulic brakes, a significant safety advancement for the brand that year.