Buick Regal (3rd generation)
The first front-wheel-drive Regal and a pioneer of GM's W-body platform.
- Power
- 165 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.2 s
- Top speed
- 112 mph
- Est. value
- $3k–$9k
About the Buick Regal
The 1988 Buick Regal marked a radical departure for the nameplate, transitioning from the traditional rear-wheel-drive G-body to the front-wheel-drive W-body platform. Initially launched only as a coupé, it was designed to compete with contemporary personal luxury cars by offering a more aerodynamic profile and improved fuel efficiency. The 3.8-litre V6 engine, a derivative of the famous Buick V6, provided smooth power delivery suited for American cruising. While it lacked the performance pedigree of the preceding Grand National, it represented Buick's move towards modern, tech-focused interiors and digital instrumentation.
Buick Regal specs
The Buick Regal produces 165 bhp (123 kW) and 285 Nm (210 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.2 seconds and has a top speed of 112 mph (180 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Regal |
| Generation | Third Generation (3rd generation) |
| Trim | 3.8 |
| Years | 1988–1996 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $15,000 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 | 5,500 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.2 s |
| Top speed | 112 mph (180 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Front-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,450 kg (3,197 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 114 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 Regal worth?
A typical Buick Regal is estimated to be worth $2,500 – $8,500 (about £1,900 – £6,300).
Its original price when new was about $15,000.
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 Regal rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Regal is a Common card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 9 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 Regal fun facts
- The 1988 Regal was the first car to be built on General Motors' W-body platform, which would eventually underpin millions of GM cars.
- For its first two model years, the third-generation Regal was only available as a two-door coupé; the four-door sedan did not arrive until 1990.
- The 1988 Regal won MotorTrend's Car of the Year award, praised at the time for its styling and improved handling over its predecessor.