Buick Electra (6th generation)
The dawn of the front-wheel drive era for Buick's traditional full-size luxury cruiser.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.2 s
- Top speed
- 109 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Buick Electra
The sixth-generation Electra represented a radical shift for Buick, moving the nameplate to the front-wheel drive C-body platform. While significantly smaller and lighter than its predecessors, it maintained the brand's focus on a soft, isolated ride and plush interior appointments. The 1988 model featured the '3800' V6 engine, which introduced balance shafts for improved smoothness and became one of GM's most reliable powerplants. This generation marked the final years of the Electra name before it was replaced by the Park Avenue in 1991.
Buick Electra specs
The Buick Electra produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.2 seconds and has a top speed of 109 mph (175 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Electra |
| Generation | Sixth Generation (6th generation) |
| Trim | 3.8 |
| Years | 1985–1990 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $18,000 when new |
| Engine | 3.8-litre V6 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 3,791 cc (3.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 165 bhp (123 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 10.2 s |
| Top speed | 109 mph (175 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,525 kg (3,362 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 108 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Electra worth?
A typical Buick Electra is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $8,500 (about £1,900 – £6,300).
Its original price when new was about $18,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Electra rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Electra is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 13 out of 100. Everyday cars you can spot on almost any street. A Common card is worth 10 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Electra fun facts
- The 1988 model year introduced the '3800' V6 branding, featuring significant internal improvements over the previous 3.8-litre LN7 engine.
- Despite being nearly two feet shorter than the 1984 model, the sixth-generation Electra offered similar interior room due to the space-efficient front-wheel drive layout.
- The Electra T-Type was a rare 'touring' variant of this generation that attempted to offer European-style handling with firmer suspension and blacked-out trim.