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1952 Buick Roadmaster

The 1952 Buick Roadmaster? A classy cruiser! Huge fins hinted at the future, showing off postwar optimism. Its powerful engine and plush interior made it a status symbol, reflecting the era's prosperity. Think chrome galore and a seriously imposing presence – a true American icon.

1952 Buick Roadmaster: A Timeless Icon

The 1952 Buick Roadmaster isn't just a car; it's a slice of Americana wrapped in chrome and style. Bursting with post-war optimism, this classic model stands as a testament to luxury and innovation during a transformative era in the automotive industry. It's not just about the roaring engine or the lavish interiors—it's about the stories, the histories, and, well, the legacies it carries along the winding roads of classic car lore.

Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster

1952 Buick Roadmaster Models:

Select the vehicle's model to see the correct data for it.

How Much is Buick Roadmaster Worth?

Original MSRP :$2,774.00

Outstanding

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$26,300

Clean

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$20,200

Average

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$14,600*

Rough

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$4,000

1952 Buick Roadmaster Specs

Body Maker: Fisher
No. Of Doors: 4
Passengers: 6
Model Number: 72R
Length: 211 inches
Width: 80 inches
Height: 61 45/64 inches
Wheelbase: 126 13/64&130 13/64 inches
Weight: 4,240lbs
Type: OHV, Downdraft 4-barrel, Dynaflow automatic
Displacement: 320.2 cu. in.
Cylinders: 8
Bore And Stroke: 3 7/16 & 4 5/16 inches
Compression Ratio Standard: 7.5 to 1
Horsepower Brake: 170@3800
Horsepower Rated: 37.8
Torque: 280@2400
Main Bearings: 5
Valve Lifters: Hydraulic
Engine Number Location: Boss on right side of crankcase near rear.
Lubrication: Pressure to all bearings excluding wrist pin
Carburetor Make: Scoe
Type:
20 Pints
Drive:
Rear wheel drive
Clutch Type:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios:
4
Gear Ratios First:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Second:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Third:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fourth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Fifth:
Not applicable
Gear Ratios Reverse:
Not applicable
Type: Semifloating
Differential Type: Hypoid
Differential Ratio: 3.90 to 1
Front: Independent coil springs
Rear: Coil springs
Service Type: 4 wheel hydraulic drum
Service Front Size: 12 inches
Service Rear Size: 12 inches
Emergency Type: Rear service brakes
Emergency Size: 12 inches
Tire Size: 8 x 15
Spare Location: Trunk
Fuel: 19 Gallons
Oil: 7 Quarts
Rear Differential: 3 Pints
Front Differential: Not applicable
Transfer Case: Not applicable
Serial Number:See Additional Information
Total Digits:8
Digits 1:Assembly plant
Digits 2-8:Production number
Two Tone Colors Available, Verde Green Poly., Seamist Gray Poly., Terrace Green Symphony, Venetian Blue Poly., Surf Blue, Glenn Green, Apache Red, Teal Blue Poly., Nassau Blue Poly., Golden Sand Poly., Coronet Copper Poly., Glacier Green Poly., Peacock Green Poly., Aztec Gold Poly., Bleach White, Black, Imperial Blue Poly.., Barton Gray, Victoria Maroon Poly., Sky Gray, Sequoia Cream
Riviera Sedan: Opt
Power Windows: Opt
Power Seats: Opt
Radio: Opt
Heater And Defroster: Opt
Rear Axle Ratio: Opt

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History of the 1952 Buick Roadmaster

Back in the day, when America was finding its stride after the upheaval of World War II, cars like the Buick Roadmaster symbolized new beginnings and aspirations. The Roadmaster first turned heads in 1936, but by 1952, it wasn't just hitting the right notes—it was an orchestra of engineering excellence. The introduction of the Buick Airpower carburetor in 1952 set a new benchmark for performance and heralded an era where cars weren't just seen as a means of transportation, but objects of desire and sophistication.

Oh, and did I mention the Indianapolis 500? The 1952 Buick served as the pace car, flaunting not just its speed but its style. Like a celebrity appearance on the red carpet, it left an indelible mark on pop culture, including famous roles in films like "La La Land" and "Rain Man".

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Detailed Specifications of the 1952 Buick Roadmaster

This classic automobile was all about pushing boundaries. Beneath its hood, you'll find the most powerful engine in the Roadmaster's history, a testament to Buick's unwavering pursuit of excellence. This beast of an engine, powered by the newly minted Buick Airpower carburetor, delivered not only raw power but also an aura of refined engineering.

Fun Facts about the 1952 Buick Roadmaster

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    Cinematic Icon: Its presence in "Rain Man" provided not just character but a cultural reference.

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    Celebrity Ownership: The Roadmaster was a choice companion for many renowned figures.

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    Auction Superstar: Valuations can skyrocket, with some models fetching over $100,000 at auctions.

Famous Figures Who Own the 1952 Buick Roadmaster

The Roadmaster's allure isn't just mechanical; it's entwined with celebrity charisma. Let me introduce you to some of its most distinguished owners:

Elvis Presley

The King of Rock 'n' Roll himself had a thing for the Roadmaster. Elvis Presley's connection with this marque only adds to its mystique. Legend has it, Elvis bought the car for his ladylove, Linda Thompson, and, in a fit of frustration, famously put a bullet through the steering wheel.

Tom Cruise

When it comes to Hollywood, Tom Cruise's name often comes up—and so does his association with the 1949 Buick Roadmaster, thanks to its memorable role in "Rain Man," a film that further cemented the car's status in pop culture.

Barry Levinson

Director of "Rain Man," Barry Levinson, didn't just use the Roadmaster as a prop; he owned it. This piece of film history, driven by Levinson himself, adds another layer of depth to the car's storied legacy.

1952 Buick Roadmaster Gallery

Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster
Photo of a 1952 Buick Roadmaster

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Explore Buick Roadmaster from Other Years

Frequently Asked Questions

Well, the '52 Roadmaster? It's a real head-turner! You'll spot it a mile away thanks to its massive, sweeping fenders – kinda like a superhero's cape, only way cooler. The chrome is seriously impressive; think of it as jewelry for a car, seriously dripping with it. And those iconic portholes on the front fenders? Pure Buick style, you know? They're like the car's signature. Oh, and let's not forget the powerful Dynaflow transmission; smooth as silk, that one. It’s a dream to drive, seriously. It's a really special automobile, a true classic.

The 1952 Roadmaster usually packed a firecracker under the hood, a 263 cubic inch Fireball V8. Now, that’s some serious power for its day! Think of it like this; it wasn’t just a car, it was a rocket ship ready for the open road. Some models, though, I believe, had a slightly smaller engine, but the V8 was the star of the show, no question. It gave these cars a real kick.

Okay, so it's not exactly like driving a modern sports car; it's a bit more… deliberate. Think of it as a really comfortable, smooth gliding experience. It's like sailing, not speed racing. You feel the road a bit more, but in a charming, nostalgic way. The steering is pretty straightforward, but it's not as responsive as what you're used to today. So, it takes some getting used to, but that’s part of the classic car experience, right?

Prices vary wildly depending on condition, restoration quality, you name it. A really nice, restored Roadmaster can fetch a pretty penny – we're talking tens of thousands of dollars. But a project car, needing some serious TLC? That could be significantly less. It's a bit like buying a house; location, location, location, plus condition. You really have to do your research. It’s tough to give an exact number.

These cars are older, so it's good to be prepared! You'll likely want to keep an eye on the electrical system; those old wirings can get a bit temperamental. Finding parts can sometimes be a bit of a hunt, and you need to know where to look. Think of it like a treasure hunt! Plus, it’s wise to be prepared for potential carburetor issues and regular tune ups; it’s a classic car, so regular maintenance is key. Regular preventative maintenance is essential, obviously.

There are numerous online communities and specialized suppliers, some local, some nationwide. You can find parts through classic car parts suppliers; there are also lots of online forums dedicated to Buicks. It's a pretty active community, so you won't be alone in your quest to keep your Roadmaster purring. It’s a great community to be part of, really.