The 1982 Buick Regal is a mid-size coupe and sedan that debuted in 1973, undergoing a significant redesign for the 1978 model year. For 1982, it was a popular choice, especially known for its sleek styling and available powerful V6 and V8 engines. Key trims included the base Regal, the luxury-oriented Regal Limited, and the sporty Regal Grand National (which debuted late in the model year). Originally, prices ranged from approximately $9,000 to $15,000, depending on trim and options. Its enduring appeal lies in its classic American design and its status as a precursor to the iconic Grand National performance variants.
The Good
The 1982 Buick Regal offered a comfortable ride and a refined interior, appealing to practical buyers. Its distinctive styling resonated emotionally, while the available V6 engines provided a good balance of power and decent fuel economy for its class, offering value for money.
The Bad
Potential weaknesses for the 1982 Buick Regal include rust issues, particularly around wheel wells and the undercarriage. Electrical gremlins and carburetor problems are also common. The aging design might not appeal to those seeking modern amenities, and some powertrain components can be costly to repair.
1982 Buick Regal: Quick Overview
- Engine Options: The 1982 Buick Regal offered several engine choices to cater to different buyer preferences. Standard on many models was a 3.8L (231 ci) V6 engine. An optional, more potent version of this V6, often referred to as the '231-4' or 'turbocharged' version (though turbocharging was more prominent in later years, the standard V6 was potent for the era), was also available. For those seeking more power, a 4.3L (260 ci) V8 (diesel) engine was also an option, primarily for those prioritizing torque and fuel efficiency over raw speed. A 5.0L (307 ci) V8 was also available in some configurations.
- Horsepower: Horsepower figures varied significantly by engine and configuration. The standard 3.8L V6 typically produced around 110-125 horsepower. The optional, more performance-oriented V6 could reach closer to 135 horsepower. The 4.3L diesel V8 offered lower horsepower, around 85-90 horsepower, but higher torque. The 5.0L V8 generally offered around 125-140 horsepower.
- Fuel Economy: Fuel economy was a strong point for the V6 engines, especially for the era. Expect figures in the range of 18-22 MPG city and 25-30 MPG highway for the 3.8L V6, depending on transmission and driving conditions. The diesel V8 offered better highway mileage, sometimes exceeding 30 MPG. The V8 gasoline engines would typically achieve lower figures, perhaps 15-19 MPG city and 20-25 MPG highway.
- 0-60 Times: 0-60 mph times were respectable for a car of this size and era. With the standard V6, acceleration was moderate, likely in the 10-12 second range. The more powerful V6 or V8 options could bring this down into the 8-10 second range. The diesel V8 would be slower, often taking 13 seconds or more.
- Towing Capacity: Towing capacity was not a primary focus for the Buick Regal and is generally not a widely advertised or significant specification for this model. It was designed as a personal luxury coupe/sedan, not a utility vehicle.
- Trim-Level Features:
- Base Regal: Offered a comfortable interior, standard features like power steering, power brakes, and AM/FM radio. Cloth or vinyl upholstery was common.
- Regal Limited: This trim focused on luxury, often including upgraded cloth or velour seating, woodgrain interior accents, power windows and door locks, cruise control, and improved sound insulation. Exterior enhancements like chrome trim and distinctive badging were also present.
- Regal Grand National (late availability): While its true performance legend was built in later years, the 1982 introduction hinted at performance with a darker, more aggressive appearance. This trim would have featured unique badging and potentially some sport-oriented interior elements.
1982 Buick Regal Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1982 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Regal |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Coupe |
| Type | Coupe |
| Category | Compact Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | FLINT |
Dimensions
| Doors | 2-Door |
| Curb Weight | - |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | - |
| Overall Length | - |
| Overall Width | - |
| Wheelbase Length | - |
| Standard Seating | - |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 4.3L V6 DIESEL |
| Engine Size | 4.3L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | - |
| Transmission Type | - |
| Transmission Speeds | - |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | - |
| Steering Type | - |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | - |
| Invoice Price | - |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1982 Buick Regal Have?
The 1982 Buick Regal, like many vehicles of its era, has a few common areas that owners should be aware of. One of the most persistent issues tends to be rust. Areas prone to corrosion include the lower body panels, wheel wells, rocker panels, and the trunk floor. Early detection and remediation are crucial for preserving the car's structural integrity.
Another area of concern can be the electrical system. Age can lead to degraded wiring harnesses, failing relays, and issues with components like the alternator, starter, and various sensors. Dashboard warning lights might flicker or remain on due to these electrical gremlins.
The carburetor on gasoline engines can also be a source of trouble, requiring regular tuning, rebuilding, or replacement as they age and wear. Fuel leaks and vacuum leaks are not uncommon. For models equipped with the diesel engine, injector pump issues, glow plug failures, and head gasket leaks can arise.
Suspension and braking components will naturally wear over time. Ball joints, tie rod ends, shocks, and brake pads/rotors may need periodic replacement. Steering components can also develop play.
While specific recalls for the 1982 model year are not extensively documented in readily accessible public databases for common issues, general long-term reliability concerns often center on the aforementioned wear-and-tear items and the inherent complexities of older automotive technology. Regular and proactive maintenance is key to mitigating many of these problems. For instance, consistent oil changes and coolant flushes can prevent premature engine wear. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more significant and costly repairs. The overall reliability can be good if properly cared for, but owners should be prepared for potential repairs related to its age.
Another area of concern can be the electrical system. Age can lead to degraded wiring harnesses, failing relays, and issues with components like the alternator, starter, and various sensors. Dashboard warning lights might flicker or remain on due to these electrical gremlins.
The carburetor on gasoline engines can also be a source of trouble, requiring regular tuning, rebuilding, or replacement as they age and wear. Fuel leaks and vacuum leaks are not uncommon. For models equipped with the diesel engine, injector pump issues, glow plug failures, and head gasket leaks can arise.
Suspension and braking components will naturally wear over time. Ball joints, tie rod ends, shocks, and brake pads/rotors may need periodic replacement. Steering components can also develop play.
While specific recalls for the 1982 model year are not extensively documented in readily accessible public databases for common issues, general long-term reliability concerns often center on the aforementioned wear-and-tear items and the inherent complexities of older automotive technology. Regular and proactive maintenance is key to mitigating many of these problems. For instance, consistent oil changes and coolant flushes can prevent premature engine wear. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more significant and costly repairs. The overall reliability can be good if properly cared for, but owners should be prepared for potential repairs related to its age.
How long will the 1982 Buick Regal last?
Estimating average mileage for a 1982 Buick Regal is challenging due to its age and the variability in owner care. However, well-maintained examples can still be on the road with 150,000 to 250,000 miles or more. The long-term durability of the Regal largely depends on the owner's commitment to maintenance. The V6 engines, in particular, were generally robust and could last for hundreds of thousands of miles with proper servicing. Weaknesses over time, as mentioned previously, include susceptibility to rust, which can significantly shorten a vehicle's lifespan if not addressed. Electrical components and carburetor wear are also factors that become more prominent with age and higher mileage, often requiring attention to keep the car running smoothly.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1982 Buick Regal was representative of its era, focusing on comfort and basic amenities rather than advanced technology.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment: The standard entertainment system typically consisted of an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player as an option. Higher trim levels, like the Regal Limited, might have featured upgraded speaker systems. Climate control was usually manual, with options for air conditioning. Power windows and door locks were often available as optional upgrades, particularly on the Limited trim. Cruise control was another popular optional feature, enhancing long-distance comfort. Woodgrain trim and plush upholstery were common interior aesthetic features, contributing to a sense of luxury.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Power steering and power brakes were standard and considered significant conveniences. Features like automatic headlights or adjustable steering columns (tilt wheel) might have been optional on higher trims.
Safety Features: Standard safety features would have included seat belts (lap belts in the front for earlier models, with shoulder belts becoming more common), crumple zones in the body structure, and padded interior surfaces. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were not available on this model.
Optional Features: Beyond those mentioned, optional features could have included power mirrors, a rear defogger, and various interior trim packages. The availability of a limited-slip differential might have been an option on more performance-oriented configurations, though this was less common for the standard Regal trims.
Crash-Test Ratings: Comprehensive crash-test data from modern standards is not readily available for vehicles from 1982. However, vehicles of this era generally performed less favorably in frontal and side impact tests compared to today's standards. Buick, being a GM marque, would have adhered to federal safety regulations of the time, but without specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings for this exact model year, a definitive assessment is not possible. Safety was primarily addressed through passive restraint systems and structural integrity that was evolving for the early 1980s.
Built-in Tech and Entertainment: The standard entertainment system typically consisted of an AM/FM radio, often with a cassette player as an option. Higher trim levels, like the Regal Limited, might have featured upgraded speaker systems. Climate control was usually manual, with options for air conditioning. Power windows and door locks were often available as optional upgrades, particularly on the Limited trim. Cruise control was another popular optional feature, enhancing long-distance comfort. Woodgrain trim and plush upholstery were common interior aesthetic features, contributing to a sense of luxury.
Driver-Assistance Features: Driver-assistance technologies as we know them today were virtually non-existent. Power steering and power brakes were standard and considered significant conveniences. Features like automatic headlights or adjustable steering columns (tilt wheel) might have been optional on higher trims.
Safety Features: Standard safety features would have included seat belts (lap belts in the front for earlier models, with shoulder belts becoming more common), crumple zones in the body structure, and padded interior surfaces. Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) were not available on this model.
Optional Features: Beyond those mentioned, optional features could have included power mirrors, a rear defogger, and various interior trim packages. The availability of a limited-slip differential might have been an option on more performance-oriented configurations, though this was less common for the standard Regal trims.
Crash-Test Ratings: Comprehensive crash-test data from modern standards is not readily available for vehicles from 1982. However, vehicles of this era generally performed less favorably in frontal and side impact tests compared to today's standards. Buick, being a GM marque, would have adhered to federal safety regulations of the time, but without specific NHTSA or IIHS ratings for this exact model year, a definitive assessment is not possible. Safety was primarily addressed through passive restraint systems and structural integrity that was evolving for the early 1980s.
What Colors Options are Available?
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In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
In the meantime, feel free to explore the other sections for more content.
1982 Buick Regal Prices and Market Value
When new in 1982, the Buick Regal had a starting MSRP that typically ranged from approximately $9,000 for a base model to over $15,000 for a well-equipped Regal Limited. As a popular model in its time, it experienced standard depreciation expected for a mass-produced vehicle.
Today, the used market prices for a 1982 Buick Regal vary significantly. Condition is paramount. A project car needing substantial work might be found for as little as $1,000 to $3,000. Fair to good condition examples, running and drivable with minor cosmetic issues, could range from $3,000 to $7,000. Pristine, low-mileage examples, especially those in desirable trims like an early Grand National (though 1982 was the very beginning of this lineage), can command prices from $8,000 up to $20,000 or more. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition (rust, interior wear, mechanical soundness), originality of parts, historical significance of the trim level, and any documentation of maintenance history. The iconic status of later Grand Nationals can sometimes inflate the value of even early examples.
Today, the used market prices for a 1982 Buick Regal vary significantly. Condition is paramount. A project car needing substantial work might be found for as little as $1,000 to $3,000. Fair to good condition examples, running and drivable with minor cosmetic issues, could range from $3,000 to $7,000. Pristine, low-mileage examples, especially those in desirable trims like an early Grand National (though 1982 was the very beginning of this lineage), can command prices from $8,000 up to $20,000 or more. Factors affecting resale value include the overall condition (rust, interior wear, mechanical soundness), originality of parts, historical significance of the trim level, and any documentation of maintenance history. The iconic status of later Grand Nationals can sometimes inflate the value of even early examples.
1982 Buick Regal Cost of Ownership
Owning a 1982 Buick Regal can be surprisingly economical for a classic car, provided it's in good condition. Insurance costs are generally low, often falling into the classic car insurance category, which is cheaper than standard policies. Fuel costs depend on the engine; V6 models offer reasonable MPG for their era, while V8s are thirstier. Maintenance is relatively straightforward, with parts for common wear items being readily available. Repairs can be moderate; while routine tasks are manageable, specialized components or extensive rust repair can increase costs. Overall, it's a vehicle that can be economical to own, especially if you perform some maintenance yourself and choose a V6 model.
1982 Buick Regal Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
-
City Mileage
-
Highway Mileage
-
1982 Buick Regal Warranty
Basic
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Powertrain
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
Rust
Original warranty
0 months / No data
Estimated remaining
Expired
1982 Buick Regal Insurance
Insurance for a 1982 Buick Regal is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Coupe with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1982 Buick Regal Compare to Other Coupe?
The 1982 Buick Regal competed in a crowded mid-size segment against rivals like the Chevrolet Camaro, Pontiac Firebird, Ford Mustang, Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme, and Dodge Mirada.
Performance: The Regal, especially with its V6 engines, offered a competent if not overtly sporty performance profile compared to the pony cars like the Camaro and Mustang, which were often more agile and powerful in their performance trims. The Cutlass Supreme offered a similar balance of comfort and optional V8 power.
Features: Buick's Regal Limited trim often excelled in offering a more luxurious interior with more creature comforts and refined styling than some of its competitors. While the Camaro and Firebird focused on performance aesthetics, the Regal leaned into its personal luxury image with more emphasis on interior appointments and ride quality.
Reliability: Reliability was a mixed bag across the segment. GM products of this era could be prone to electrical issues and rust, similar to the Regal. Ford vehicles sometimes faced transmission issues. For consistent reliability, some buyers might have looked towards Japanese offerings like the Toyota Celica or Nissan 240SX, though these were generally smaller and sportier.
Price: The Regal's pricing was competitive within the American mid-size segment. It offered a distinct value proposition by blending a comfortable ride with available V6 power and a touch of luxury, often at a price point below more premium European imports.
Alternatives:
Performance: The Regal, especially with its V6 engines, offered a competent if not overtly sporty performance profile compared to the pony cars like the Camaro and Mustang, which were often more agile and powerful in their performance trims. The Cutlass Supreme offered a similar balance of comfort and optional V8 power.
Features: Buick's Regal Limited trim often excelled in offering a more luxurious interior with more creature comforts and refined styling than some of its competitors. While the Camaro and Firebird focused on performance aesthetics, the Regal leaned into its personal luxury image with more emphasis on interior appointments and ride quality.
Reliability: Reliability was a mixed bag across the segment. GM products of this era could be prone to electrical issues and rust, similar to the Regal. Ford vehicles sometimes faced transmission issues. For consistent reliability, some buyers might have looked towards Japanese offerings like the Toyota Celica or Nissan 240SX, though these were generally smaller and sportier.
Price: The Regal's pricing was competitive within the American mid-size segment. It offered a distinct value proposition by blending a comfortable ride with available V6 power and a touch of luxury, often at a price point below more premium European imports.
Alternatives:
- Similar Alternatives: The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme of the same era is a very similar competitor, offering a comparable ride and styling, often with similar engine options. The Chevrolet Malibu (though its styling was slightly different by '82) also occupied a similar space.
- More Performance-Oriented: If performance was the primary driver, the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 or Pontiac Firebird Trans Am would offer superior acceleration and handling, though likely at a higher price and with a harsher ride. The Ford Mustang GT offered a compelling performance package as well.
- More Luxurious: For those seeking ultimate luxury, models from European brands like BMW or Mercedes-Benz would be in a different, higher price bracket, but offered superior build quality and driving dynamics in that regard.
Final Verdict: Is the 1982 Buick Regal a Good Coupe?
The 1982 Buick Regal is ideal for enthusiasts who appreciate classic American styling, a comfortable cruising experience, and the burgeoning potential of the V6 engine. It's a great choice for someone looking for a stylish weekend cruiser or a nostalgic daily driver that offers a touch of mid-80s American luxury.
It is absolutely worth buying, but primarily in the used market. Finding a 1982 model in new condition is impossible. When buying used, prioritize models with minimal rust and a well-documented maintenance history. The Regal Limited trim offers a more luxurious experience, while a well-preserved base Regal with a good V6 can be a fantastic value. Be prepared for potential maintenance related to its age, especially concerning the electrical system and carburetor. It's a solid buy for those who value style, comfort, and a piece of automotive history without breaking the bank.
It is absolutely worth buying, but primarily in the used market. Finding a 1982 model in new condition is impossible. When buying used, prioritize models with minimal rust and a well-documented maintenance history. The Regal Limited trim offers a more luxurious experience, while a well-preserved base Regal with a good V6 can be a fantastic value. Be prepared for potential maintenance related to its age, especially concerning the electrical system and carburetor. It's a solid buy for those who value style, comfort, and a piece of automotive history without breaking the bank.
Cathleen V
Cathleen is an exceptional freelance writer covering hot topics in the automotive world from a gearhead's perspective. Her articles delve into various aspects of automotive technology and history, offering readers detailed insights into engine performance, reliability, and maintenance. Through her engaging and informative writing, Cathleen provides valuable information to automotive enthusiasts and consumers alike, helping them make informed decisions about vehicle maintenance and purchases.