The 1957 Buick Estate Wagon was known as the banker’s hot rod of its day. Originally priced at $3,831 and weighing in at 4,423 pounds, just over 10,000 of these Fireball V8 toting tanks were produced that year. It came with optional two or even three tone paint in 21 basic color choices. At one time this was GM’s finest and most expensive wagon.
First introduced in 1940 as a large-bodied station wagon with a wooden body, it shared the same platform as the Buick Super and was a luxurious and exclusive model, featuring the second largest engine offered at the time.
In 1949, the Estate Wagon switched to the GM C platform, and in 1953, it returned to the B-body platform. Throughout the 1950s and 1960s, the Estate Wagon underwent various design changes and upgrades, including the introduction of the Century Caballero Estate Hardtop in 1957.
In the 1970s, the Estate Wagon was reintroduced as the top-level luxury station wagon for GM, competing against models from other manufacturers like the Mercury Colony Park and Chrysler New Yorker Town & Country. The 1970s also saw the introduction of the Buick Sport Wagon, which shared the Estate Wagon name on two different models.
The 1980s and 1990s saw further developments in the Estate Wagon’s design and features. In 1991, the Buick Roadmaster Estate was introduced, featuring a “Vista Roof” fixed sunroof and a powerful 5.7L small block V8 engine.
The Buick Estate Wagon’s production ended in 1996, marking the end of an era for this iconic vehicle. Throughout its history, the Estate Wagon was known for its luxury, spaciousness, and innovative features, making it a popular choice among car buyers.
