Buick Roadmaster (4th generation)
The pinnacle of post-war American opulence, powered by the legendary Fireball straight-eight engine.
- Power
- 144 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 17.5 s
- Top speed
- 90 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$65k
About the Buick Roadmaster
The 1947 Buick Roadmaster represented the height of General Motors' luxury hierarchy just below Cadillac, featuring the prestigious Series 70 chassis. It is defined by its massive chrome 'waterfall' grille and the smooth, torque-rich delivery of the 320 cubic-inch Fireball straight-eight engine. While the 1947 model retained the pre-war body shell, it introduced refined interior appointments and the iconic 'sweepspear' chrome accents that would define Buick styling for a generation. Collectors prize these cars for their exceptional ride quality, provided by a sophisticated coil-spring suspension at all four corners.
Buick Roadmaster specs
The Buick Roadmaster produces 144 bhp (107 kW) and 374 Nm (276 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 17.5 seconds and has a top speed of 90 mph (145 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadmaster |
| Generation | Fourth Generation (4th generation) |
| Trim | 5.2 |
| Years | 1942–1948 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $2,200 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre Fireball straight-eight |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,247 cc (5.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 144 bhp (107 kW) at 3,600 rpm |
| Torque | 374 Nm (276 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 17.5 s |
| Top speed | 90 mph (145 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 2,015 kg (4,442 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 71 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 $2,200.
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 1947 Roadmaster was the last to feature the 'Fireball' straight-eight before the introduction of the Dynaflow automatic transmission in 1948.
- Despite its size, the Roadmaster used a torque-tube drive system which helped provide a remarkably stable and quiet cruising experience for the era.
- The 1947 model year saw Buick production reach record levels as the American public clamoured for luxury goods following the end of World War II.