It’s interesting how manufacturers’ logos have changed over the years. Cadillac used to feature ducks in its badge, and Buick was originally inspired by the founder of Buick, David Dunbar Buick’s family coat of arms. In the sixties, the 3 shields stood for the three models from that decade: the LeSabre, Electra, and the Invicta. This 1996 Buick Regal 3800 struck me as a good-looking car at a reasonable price. It is available here on craigslist in the Walnut Creek area of California for just $2,500. Thanks to Tony Primo for being the Tri-Shield tipster on this one!
The Buick Regal started life as the Century Regal in 1973 and became its own model line in 1976. Produced until 2020, it spanned almost 50 years of technical evolution. This 1996 has the 3800-series II engine and appears to have lower mileage for a 1990s Buick, at just 106K. The reliable 3800 engine is an even-firing 90-degree V6 with balance shafts to reduce vibrations. The seller says most of the mileage is from highway driving in California and that the car has never missed a scheduled oil change. It has also passed its California Smog.
The interior is said to have never had a smoker or a pet. The upholstery and steering wheel show the normal wear and tear of a 1990s leather interior. Although the seller says there have been no accidents since ownership, it’s clear there is some parking-lot rash on the front and rear. Nothing that looks horrible, but for the mileage and price, it may be expected. From the pictures, you can tell that this Regal has all the normal 1996 creature comforts, including a power driver’s seat, cruise control, power windows and door locks, AC, and a stereo.
Looking at other 1996 Buick Regals for sale, there is a gap between the really cheap, trashed vehicles and one like this that presents very well. This example looks well cared for and detailed. With the doors open, the door jambs look like new, and I think it is pretty amazing how nice the wheels look. In a quick search, I see that the median price for a 1996 Regal is around $7,600, with recent sales ranging from $4,950 to $10,250. With that information, this looks like a no-brainer for someone looking for a dependable car with only 100k miles. Wouldn’t you really rather have a Buick?
Absolutely looks nice.