The 1998 Buick Park Avenue is a full-size luxury sedan that was part of Buick's flagship lineup for many years. Produced from 1991 through 2005, the 1998 model year featured the Series II supercharged V6 engine as a popular option. Key trims included the standard model and the upscale Ultra. It stood out for its quiet, comfortable ride, spacious interior, and stately presence, appealing to those seeking a refined and relaxed driving experience.
The Good
The 1998 Park Avenue excelled in providing a supremely comfortable and quiet ride, a hallmark of Buick. Its spacious cabin offered ample room for passengers and cargo. The available supercharged engine delivered surprisingly brisk acceleration. For practical buyers, its solid build and relatively affordable used price offered excellent value.
The Bad
Owners often reported issues with the intake manifold gaskets leaking coolant, leading to potential overheating. Transmission problems, particularly with the 4-speed automatic, were also noted. Some electrical gremlins and premature wear on suspension components were also common concerns to watch out for.
1998 Buick Park Avenue: Quick Overview
- Engine Options:
- 3800 Series II 3.8L V6 (Naturally Aspirated)
- 3800 Series II 3.8L V6 (Supercharged) - Horsepower:
- Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 205 hp @ 5200 rpm
- Supercharged: Approximately 240 hp @ 5200 rpm - Torque:
- Naturally Aspirated: Approximately 230 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm
- Supercharged: Approximately 280 lb-ft @ 3600 rpm - Fuel Economy (EPA Estimates):
- City: Around 17-18 mpg
- Highway: Around 26-27 mpg - 0-60 Times:
- Naturally Aspirated: Around 8.5-9.5 seconds
- Supercharged: Around 7.0-8.0 seconds - Towing Capacity:
- Not typically advertised or designed for significant towing. Maximum trailer weight is generally minimal, around 1000 lbs if equipped with a factory tow package, but this is not a primary function. - Trim-Level Features:
Park Avenue (Base Model):
- Standard 3800 Series II V6 engine
- Front bucket seats with center console or bench seat option
- Automatic climate control
- Power windows, door locks, and mirrors
- Cruise control
- AM/FM stereo with cassette and optional CD player
- Tilt steering wheel
- Anti-lock brakes (ABS)
- Driver and front passenger airbags
- Traction control (on some)
Park Avenue Ultra:
- Upgraded 3800 Series II Supercharged V6 engine
- Leather seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- Driver's seat memory
- Power lumbar support
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- OnStar communication system (optional)
- Bose premium audio system (optional)
- Power adjustable pedals
- Alloy wheels
- Enhanced interior trim
- Head-Up Display (HUD) (optional)
- Sunroof (optional)
1998 Buick Park Avenue Specifications
Vehicle Information
| Year | 1998 |
| Make | Buick |
| Model | Park Avenue |
| Trim | - |
| Style | Sedan |
| Type | Sedan |
| Category | Large Car |
Manufacturing Details
| Made In | United States |
| Manufacturing City | HAMTRAMCK |
Dimensions
| Doors | 4-Door |
| Curb Weight | 3740 pounds |
| Gross Vehicle Weight Rating | - |
| Overall Height | 57.40 inches |
| Overall Length | 206.80 inches |
| Overall Width | 74.70 inches |
| Wheelbase Length | 113.80 inches |
| Standard Seating | 6 |
Engine & Performance
| Engine | 3.8L V6 OHV 12V |
| Engine Size | 3.8L |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 |
| Transmission | 4-Speed Automatic |
| Transmission Type | Automatic |
| Transmission Speeds | 4-Speed |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive |
Additional Features
| Anti-Brake System | 4-Wheel ABS |
| Steering Type | Rack & Pinion |
Pricing
| Manufacturer Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) | $30,675 |
| Invoice Price | $27,761 |
| Delivery Charges | - |
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What Problems Does the 1998 Buick Park Avenue Have?
The 1998 Buick Park Avenue, while generally considered a reliable cruiser, is not without its common issues. One of the most frequently reported problems is with the intake manifold gaskets. These are prone to leaking coolant, which can lead to overheating and costly engine damage if not addressed promptly. This issue was prevalent across many GM vehicles from this era sharing the 3800 V6 engine.
Another area of concern for the 1998 Park Avenue, and its siblings, is the transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while generally robust, can develop issues over time, including slipping gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure. Regular fluid changes and proper maintenance are crucial to extending its life, but some units may still require rebuilding or replacement.
Electrical issues are also part of the ownership experience for some. This can range from minor nuisances like faulty power window motors or door lock actuators to more significant problems with the instrument cluster or body control modules. Water leaks into the passenger cabin, particularly around the windshield or sunroof, have also been reported, leading to mold and electrical component damage.
While there haven't been widespread, catastrophic recalls specific to the 1998 model year that drastically impacted its long-term reliability across the board, individual issues can crop up. It's essential for prospective buyers to have any 1998 Park Avenue thoroughly inspected by a mechanic familiar with this platform to identify potential problems before purchase. Long-term reliability heavily depends on the diligent maintenance history of the specific vehicle.
Another area of concern for the 1998 Park Avenue, and its siblings, is the transmission. The 4-speed automatic transmission, while generally robust, can develop issues over time, including slipping gears, delayed engagement, or complete failure. Regular fluid changes and proper maintenance are crucial to extending its life, but some units may still require rebuilding or replacement.
Electrical issues are also part of the ownership experience for some. This can range from minor nuisances like faulty power window motors or door lock actuators to more significant problems with the instrument cluster or body control modules. Water leaks into the passenger cabin, particularly around the windshield or sunroof, have also been reported, leading to mold and electrical component damage.
While there haven't been widespread, catastrophic recalls specific to the 1998 model year that drastically impacted its long-term reliability across the board, individual issues can crop up. It's essential for prospective buyers to have any 1998 Park Avenue thoroughly inspected by a mechanic familiar with this platform to identify potential problems before purchase. Long-term reliability heavily depends on the diligent maintenance history of the specific vehicle.
How long will the 1998 Buick Park Avenue last?
With diligent maintenance, a 1998 Buick Park Avenue can easily achieve 200,000 to 250,000 miles or more. Many owners report their vehicles lasting well over 15 years. The robust 3800 V6 engine, especially the naturally aspirated version, is known for its durability. However, the aforementioned weaknesses, particularly intake manifold gasket leaks and transmission issues, can shorten its service life if neglected. Regular fluid changes, timely repairs of minor leaks, and addressing any transmission symptoms promptly are critical for maximizing its long-term durability. Cars that have been driven primarily on highways tend to fare better than those subjected to constant stop-and-go city driving.
What Technology & Safety Features are Included?
The 1998 Buick Park Avenue offered a respectable suite of technology and safety features for its era, prioritizing comfort and convenience. Standard entertainment included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, with an optional CD player and a premium Bose sound system available on higher trims, particularly the Ultra. The climate control system was automatic, and dual-zone climate control was an option on the Ultra, allowing for personalized comfort for both front occupants.
Driver assistance features were relatively basic but included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) for improved stopping control and traction control, especially on the supercharged models, to help manage wheel spin. The optional OnStar system provided in-vehicle safety and convenience services, a notable advancement for the late 1990s, offering features like emergency assistance and remote diagnostics.
Safety was a priority, with standard driver and front passenger airbags. Many models also included optional side-impact airbags for enhanced protection. The Park Avenue was built on a sturdy chassis designed for highway cruising.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles of this vintage are not as standardized or readily available as they are today. However, the Park Avenue generally performed adequately in available IIHS and NHTSA tests for its time, reflecting its full-size construction. Its substantial weight also contributed to a perception of safety and stability on the road. While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems of modern vehicles (like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist), the 1998 Park Avenue focused on core safety and comfort amenities.
Driver assistance features were relatively basic but included standard anti-lock brakes (ABS) for improved stopping control and traction control, especially on the supercharged models, to help manage wheel spin. The optional OnStar system provided in-vehicle safety and convenience services, a notable advancement for the late 1990s, offering features like emergency assistance and remote diagnostics.
Safety was a priority, with standard driver and front passenger airbags. Many models also included optional side-impact airbags for enhanced protection. The Park Avenue was built on a sturdy chassis designed for highway cruising.
Crash-test ratings for vehicles of this vintage are not as standardized or readily available as they are today. However, the Park Avenue generally performed adequately in available IIHS and NHTSA tests for its time, reflecting its full-size construction. Its substantial weight also contributed to a perception of safety and stability on the road. While lacking the advanced driver-assistance systems of modern vehicles (like adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assist), the 1998 Park Avenue focused on core safety and comfort amenities.
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1998 Buick Park Avenue Prices and Market Value
When new, the 1998 Buick Park Avenue had an MSRP that typically ranged from around $35,000 for the base model to over $40,000 for the Ultra trim. As with most vehicles, depreciation was significant in the first few years of ownership. Today, the used market prices for a 1998 Park Avenue are quite low, generally ranging from $1,000 to $4,000, heavily dependent on mileage, condition, and the presence of the desirable supercharged engine. Factors affecting resale value include a clean maintenance history, low mileage for its age, and excellent mechanical condition. Vehicles with documented regular servicing and those in pristine cosmetic shape command a premium, albeit still modest.
1998 Buick Park Avenue Cost of Ownership
The 1998 Buick Park Avenue is generally economical to own. Insurance costs are typically moderate, falling between typical sedan rates. Fuel costs are average for its class and era, with the naturally aspirated V6 being more frugal than the supercharged variant. Routine maintenance, like oil changes and tire rotations, is affordable. However, repairs for known issues such as intake manifold gaskets or transmission problems can be substantial, impacting overall cost. Despite potential repair expenses, its low purchase price and reasonable running costs make it an economical choice for many, especially when well-maintained.
1998 Buick Park Avenue Fuel Efficiency
Fuel Type
Gasoline
Fuel Capacity
18.50 gallons
City Mileage
19 miles/gallon
Highway Mileage
28 miles/gallon
1998 Buick Park Avenue Safety Rating
NHTSA
IIHS
1998 Buick Park Avenue 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
1998 Buick Park Avenue Insurance
Insurance for a 1998 Buick Park Avenue is moderately priced, reflecting its status as a Sedan with strong safety ratings and
reasonable repair costs.
reasonable repair costs.
How Does the 1998 Buick Park Avenue Compare to Other Sedan?
The 1998 Buick Park Avenue competed in the full-size luxury sedan segment against rivals like the Ford Crown Victoria/Mercury Grand Marquis, Lincoln Town Car, and Cadillac DeVille.
Performance: The Park Avenue, especially the supercharged Ultra trim, offered competitive performance for its class, with brisk acceleration thanks to the 3800 Supercharged V6. The Ford and Mercury offerings were known for their robust, albeit less refined, V8 power, while the Cadillac DeVille often offered a smoother, though sometimes less powerful, powertrain. The Lincoln Town Car provided a supremely comfortable ride but was less performance-oriented.
Features: Buick typically excelled in comfort and quietness, and the Park Avenue was no exception. It offered a well-appointed interior with features like automatic climate control and available premium audio. Rivals like the DeVille offered similar luxury appointments, while the Ford and Mercury offerings were more utilitarian in their base trims, though higher trims added more features. The Lincoln Town Car focused heavily on luxury and a serene cabin.
Reliability: Reliability is a mixed bag for the Park Avenue. While the 3800 V6 engine is generally durable, the intake manifold gasket issues were a common Achilles' heel. The Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis were often lauded for their robust mechanicals and long-term durability, especially their engines and transmissions. The Lincoln Town Car shared much with the Ford chassis and generally offered good reliability. Cadillac's DeVille from this era had a more varied reliability record.
Price: The 1998 Park Avenue offered a good value proposition, sitting between the more budget-friendly Ford/Mercury options and the premium pricing of Cadillac and Lincoln. Today, all these vehicles are very affordable on the used market.
Alternatives:
- Similar: The Cadillac DeVille (especially models with the Northstar V8, though these have their own potential issues) offers a comparable level of luxury and a similar ride. The Lincoln Town Car is a strong contender for ultimate comfort but lacks the dynamic performance of the supercharged Park Avenue.
- Better: For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and simpler mechanics, the Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Grand Marquis are excellent choices, offering a solid ride and durable powertrains, albeit with less luxury refinement. If long-term reliability is paramount and budget allows for slightly higher initial cost, models from Japanese luxury brands like the Lexus LS (older generation) might be considered, though they would be significantly more expensive even used.
Performance: The Park Avenue, especially the supercharged Ultra trim, offered competitive performance for its class, with brisk acceleration thanks to the 3800 Supercharged V6. The Ford and Mercury offerings were known for their robust, albeit less refined, V8 power, while the Cadillac DeVille often offered a smoother, though sometimes less powerful, powertrain. The Lincoln Town Car provided a supremely comfortable ride but was less performance-oriented.
Features: Buick typically excelled in comfort and quietness, and the Park Avenue was no exception. It offered a well-appointed interior with features like automatic climate control and available premium audio. Rivals like the DeVille offered similar luxury appointments, while the Ford and Mercury offerings were more utilitarian in their base trims, though higher trims added more features. The Lincoln Town Car focused heavily on luxury and a serene cabin.
Reliability: Reliability is a mixed bag for the Park Avenue. While the 3800 V6 engine is generally durable, the intake manifold gasket issues were a common Achilles' heel. The Ford Crown Victoria and Mercury Grand Marquis were often lauded for their robust mechanicals and long-term durability, especially their engines and transmissions. The Lincoln Town Car shared much with the Ford chassis and generally offered good reliability. Cadillac's DeVille from this era had a more varied reliability record.
Price: The 1998 Park Avenue offered a good value proposition, sitting between the more budget-friendly Ford/Mercury options and the premium pricing of Cadillac and Lincoln. Today, all these vehicles are very affordable on the used market.
Alternatives:
- Similar: The Cadillac DeVille (especially models with the Northstar V8, though these have their own potential issues) offers a comparable level of luxury and a similar ride. The Lincoln Town Car is a strong contender for ultimate comfort but lacks the dynamic performance of the supercharged Park Avenue.
- Better: For those prioritizing bulletproof reliability and simpler mechanics, the Ford Crown Victoria or Mercury Grand Marquis are excellent choices, offering a solid ride and durable powertrains, albeit with less luxury refinement. If long-term reliability is paramount and budget allows for slightly higher initial cost, models from Japanese luxury brands like the Lexus LS (older generation) might be considered, though they would be significantly more expensive even used.
Final Verdict: Is the 1998 Buick Park Avenue a Good Sedan?
The 1998 Buick Park Avenue is ideal for buyers seeking a comfortable, quiet, and spacious sedan at a very affordable price on the used market. It's an excellent choice for those who prioritize a smooth ride and a relaxed driving experience over sporty handling or cutting-edge technology. It's well-suited for retirees, commuters, or anyone needing a capable, comfortable daily driver for relatively short to medium distances.
It is absolutely worth buying if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history, especially a non-supercharged model if long-term mechanical simplicity is the goal, or a supercharged model if a bit more spirited performance is desired. Avoid models with signs of coolant leaks or transmission issues. Buying used is the only practical option. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to mitigate potential repair costs associated with its known weaknesses.
It is absolutely worth buying if found in good condition with a documented maintenance history, especially a non-supercharged model if long-term mechanical simplicity is the goal, or a supercharged model if a bit more spirited performance is desired. Avoid models with signs of coolant leaks or transmission issues. Buying used is the only practical option. A thorough pre-purchase inspection is highly recommended to mitigate potential repair costs associated with its known weaknesses.
Drew B
Drew is a seasoned automotive expert and contributor to VinCheck.info. With nearly 15 years of experience as a former Porsche technician, he brings a wealth of hands-on knowledge to his writing. Born in North Carolina, a region renowned for its deep-rooted NASCAR culture, Drew developed a passion for cars early in life, often building and working on vehicles from a young age. At VINCheck, Drew leverages his extensive technical background to provide in-depth analyses of various vehicles. His articles often focus on engine performance, reliability, and maintenance insights, offering readers practical information grounded in real-world experience. Some of his notable contributions include reviews on the Mazda CX-5's longevity and detailed examinations of engine options for models like the 2011 Toyota Camry and Tacoma