Although we typically focus on desirable classics at Barn Finds, I am also a fan of cars that I describe as “cheap and cheerful.” They aren’t the most desirable vehicles on the planet, but they’re typically in above-average condition, and sellers list them at affordable asking prices. Barn Finder Curvette deserves credit for spotting this 1993 Buick Regal Custom. It presents nicely, and its interior appointments promise a comfortable, practical motoring experience. The seller has listed the Regal here on Craigslist in Lynnwood, Washington, for $3,500.
Buick introduced the Third Generation Regal in 1988, marking a significant transformation for the badge. The styling was more restrained and aerodynamic, and it was the first Regal produced on a front-wheel-drive platform. Our featured Regal Custom Sedan left the factory in 1993, ordered by its first owner in Medium Garnet Red. The car presents well, with a healthy shine and no significant dings or dents. A close inspection will likely reveal minor flaws, but its appearance suggests it’s had a fairly sheltered life. I see no evidence of rust, and the plastic hasn’t succumbed to age or UV exposure. The alloy wheels look slightly dirty around the outer edges, but I can’t spot any physical damage. So I think they would respond well to a specialized wheel-cleaning product that would improve their overall appearance.
This Buick’s new owner will receive plenty of comfort for their bucks, with the interior featuring air conditioning, power windows, power locks, power mirrors, a power driver’s seat, a rear defogger, cruise control, a tilt wheel, an AM/FM radio, and a cassette player. The Gray leather on the seats and door trims shows typically elegant age wrinkles, but no evidence of severe wear. The dash looks nice, and the faux walnut isn’t worn or damaged. The carpet is a potential low point, exhibiting dirty marks in several spots. However, I think these areas might respond well to a deep clean, which would lift its appearance markedly. Otherwise, it has no genuine shortcomings.
The seller provides no engine bay images but confirms this Regal has the optional 3.8-liter V6, paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and four-wheel anti-lock power disc brakes. The 3.8 is a robust, reliable motor, producing a healthy 170hp and 225 ft/lbs of torque. Those figures aren’t startling by modern standards, but they were pretty respectable in 1993. However, the Regal’s greatest strength is its better-than-average fuel economy, which contemporary road tests acknowledged. That could make this gem a practical daily driver. The seller says this Buick has 107,000 miles on its odometer and runs and drives perfectly. With no known mechanical issues, the buyer can fly in and drive this Regal home.
It’s easy to dismiss this 1993 Buick Regal Custom, arguing it isn’t a genuine classic. That is probably fair, because it won’t make many desirable classic top ten lists. However, its condition is above average for a Regal of this vintage, and the relatively low odometer reading means it should provide years of reliable motoring. It doesn’t lack creature comforts and is undeniably affordable. It hasn’t been on the market long, and I think it will find a new home fairly quickly with someone looking for an entry-level classic or a cheap, practical daily driver. Do you agree?
I don’t like to see the authors work go in vain, to be honest, someone looking to BFs may not be accustomed to seeing cars like this and vice versa. I’ve been thinking (ow, again) maybe a “NICE” car would enhance my driving pleasure, and not struggling along in a glorified army Jeep. These are simply, to me, the best cars. Very little electronic interaction, comfy, great heat/ac, okay mileage, certainly rivals any SUV today, and I just might do it. So many of retired folks have cars like this, many with ultra low miles. Lady in my apt. complex has a newer similar Buick, not even 30K miles.
Now the (only) downside I can see with these is, okay, say you get this car for $3grand, and I’m sure they’d go for it, you go 3 blocks and the transmission gives out, now you’re talking $4000 for a transmission for a $3000 car, making it a, $3000 car, with a new transmission. Suddenly, it makes cars like these not worth the trouble, and the Jeep always gets me there, eventually. It is a very nice find, and the “sites” are inundated with these so take your pick.
You meet the nicest people in a Buick.
What a nice looking low mileage car that I bet would be very dependable. The seats look really comfortable and would be good on gas as well. What’s not like?