Buick Roadmaster (3rd generation)
The pinnacle of pre-war Buick engineering, featuring the legendary 'Compound Carburetion' Fireball Straight-8.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 14.5 s
- Top speed
- 102 mph
- Est. value
- $18k–$65k
About the Buick Roadmaster
The 1941 Buick Roadmaster represented the final evolution of Buick's pre-war design, sitting atop the Series 70 range. It was powered by the 320 cubic-inch 'Fireball' straight-eight engine, which introduced 'Compound Carburetion'—a precursor to the four-barrel carburettor—allowing it to produce 165 hp, the highest of any American production car that year. The 1941 model is distinguished by its headlights integrated into the wings and a wide, horizontal grille that defined the brand's post-war look. Collectors prize the 1941 for its smooth power delivery and its status as one of the fastest and most luxurious American cars of the era.
Buick Roadmaster specs
The Buick Roadmaster produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 377 Nm (278 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 14.5 seconds and has a top speed of 102 mph (164 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Roadmaster |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 5.2 |
| Years | 1941 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 15,372 built |
| Original price | About $1,300 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre Fireball Straight-8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,247 cc (5.2 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 165 bhp (123 kW) at 3,800 rpm |
| Torque | 377 Nm (278 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 14.5 s |
| Top speed | 102 mph (164 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,980 kg (4,365 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 83 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 $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
- The 1941 Roadmaster featured 'Compound Carburetion', using two dual-barrel carburettors where the second only opened under heavy acceleration.
- This was the first year Buick integrated the headlights fully into the front wings, a major styling shift away from the pod-mounted lights of the 1930s.
- The 165 hp output of the 1941 Roadmaster was not surpassed by a standard Buick engine until the introduction of the V8 in 1953.
