The special 1950 Buick Roadmaster convertible now available on eBay Motors might look somewhat decrepit at first glance. But the rat rod was made much better than new—thanks to Icon, a Southern California restoration company the prefers the term “derelict” to “resto-mod.” Derelict cars are under-the-radar hot rods that retain much of their rough outward appearances while bringing their mechanicals and technology up to modern standards. The ’50 Roadmaster—selling for a cool $375,000—is one of Icon’s best efforts to date.
With those teeth and the four portholes, it can only be a Roadmaster.
Other Icon derelicts include a similar ’48 Buick Roadmaster droptop, a ’52 Chrysler Town and Country, and a 1951 DeSoto wagon.
Before you balk at a price far above that of a standard restored Roadmaster, consider what was done to this car. It runs a 505-horsepower LS7 fuel-injected motor coupled to a GM automatic. The old drum brakes were replaced with Wilwood power discs (with a ’58 Buick power brake pedal), and there is a long list of other updates, including a full custom stainless-steel fuel system and gas tank, electric power windows (replacing the hydraulics), modern heat and wipers, and special distressed leather interior with German Haargarten wool carpet, and a Mercedes brown canvas top.
The leather looks distressed but it’s new, and the old window switches control modern electrics.
Not wanting to spoil the visual effect of an entirely original car, the digital audio system with iPhone dock, four Focal speakers, and amp are hidden away. Also not visible but very helpful is an extensive use of Dynamat sound-deadener and new weather stripping.
The old car sports a modern chassis with independent suspension and power disc brakes.
Buick convertibles of this era didn’t handle all that well and were fairly flexible, but this one benefits from a custom chassis that includes independent front suspension, a four-link rear, and plenty of added structural support to get rid of the cowl shake. The car was also converted to 12-volt electrics, and the battery is now in the rear (which also houses hidden audio equipment).
The 18-inch wheels are one of a kind, featuring freshly-made spun stainless-steel hubcaps, and they’re sporting BF Goodrich G-Force performance tires - opens in new window or tab.. The effect is gorgeous but looks stock. So too, the LS7 was dressed up—an old air cleaner from an Olds 442 helps preserve a period look—and some of the modern plastic is gone.
This Derelict was made to be used—it’s not a garage queen.
The new owner will likely find that this Buick, despite its vintage appearance, can be serviced like a modern car. Wilwood brake calipers and other equipment - opens in new window or tab. are available on eBay Motors. Replacement LS7 big-block motors - opens in new window or tab. and equipment for them are also available on eBay, as are a wide range of vintage Buick Roadmaster parts and accessories - opens in new window or tab..
As the story goes, this old Buick was sourced from a backyard in Arizona, where it had been sinking into the earth for decades without an engine or transmission. But Arizona is a desert state, and its dryness helped preserve the sheet metal. When completed, this new-old Buick was displayed in Las Vegas at the 2015 SEMA show.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.