The 1987 Buick Regal, a symbol of American automotive design and engineering, represents a pivotal era in the automaker’s history. Released during a period of significant industry change, the Regal carved its niche as a stylish and comfortable mid-size sedan, attracting drivers seeking a balance of performance and luxury.
The model’s design, featuring sharp lines and a distinctive grille, reflected the trends of the time, while its available V6 engine offered a smooth and responsive driving experience.
The 1987 Buick Regal’s legacy extends beyond its technical specifications. It played a role in popular culture, appearing in films and television shows, further solidifying its place as an iconic vehicle. This article delves into the Regal’s significance, exploring its design, performance, features, and cultural impact.
Interior and Features: 1987 Buick Regal
The 1987 Buick Regal’s interior was designed to offer a blend of comfort and practicality. It provided a spacious and well-appointed cabin for passengers and driver alike.
The 1987 Buick Regal, known for its sleek design and powerful engine options, was a popular choice for drivers seeking a comfortable and stylish ride. While the Regal’s design was more modern than its predecessor, the 1972 Buick Skylark still holds a special place in the hearts of many car enthusiasts for its classic lines and nostalgic appeal.
The Regal, however, benefited from a more fuel-efficient engine and advanced features that catered to the changing needs of the time.
Standard and Optional Features, 1987 Buick Regal
The 1987 Buick Regal offered a variety of standard and optional features, catering to different preferences and budgets. Standard features included:
- Power steering
- Power brakes
- Air conditioning
- AM/FM radio
- Cloth upholstery
Optional features added luxury and convenience, including:
- Leather upholstery
- Power windows and door locks
- Cruise control
- Cassette player
- Tilt steering wheel
- Rear window defroster
Comfort and Practicality
The interior of the 1987 Buick Regal prioritized comfort. The spacious cabin provided ample legroom and headroom for passengers, while the plush seats offered a comfortable ride. The well-designed dashboard and controls were easy to use and understand. The Regal’s interior also offered practicality.
The 1987 Buick Regal, a popular model of its time, offered a comfortable ride and a spacious interior. However, it lacked the classic styling and power of earlier Buicks, such as the 1960 Buick Lesabre , which boasted a sleek design and a powerful V8 engine.
While the Regal was a reliable and practical choice, it didn’t quite capture the essence of the brand’s heritage in the same way as its predecessors.
The trunk provided ample cargo space for luggage and other belongings, while the rear seats folded down to increase cargo capacity. The car’s overall design made it easy to get in and out of, and the visibility was good, thanks to large windows.
Safety and Reliability
The 1987 Buick Regal, like many cars of its era, prioritized comfort and style over advanced safety features. However, it did offer a standard suite of safety equipment, including a driver’s-side airbag, power disc brakes, and a four-wheel independent suspension.
The 1987 Buick Regal, a model known for its sporty handling and refined interior, shared a similar lineage with its larger sibling, the Buick Electra 225. While the Regal offered a more compact and agile driving experience, the Electra 225, like the 1975 Buick Electra 225 , was a symbol of luxury and comfort, boasting a spacious cabin and a powerful V8 engine.
Both models, however, reflected the changing automotive landscape of the 1980s, a period marked by increased fuel efficiency and a shift towards smaller, more aerodynamic designs.
The car’s reliability is a more complex issue, as it is influenced by factors like maintenance, driving habits, and individual vehicle condition.
Reliability History and Known Issues
The 1987 Buick Regal was generally considered a reliable car, but certain issues were reported. The most common problem was with the 3.8-liter V6 engine, which could experience oil leaks, head gasket failures, and premature wear on the timing chain.
The transmission, particularly the 4-speed automatic, was also prone to issues, including slipping and failure. Other common problems included electrical issues, suspension wear, and rust on the body.
Safety and Reliability Comparison to Competitors
Compared to its competitors, the 1987 Buick Regal’s safety features were on par with the average. The standard driver’s-side airbag was a relatively new safety feature at the time, and it was not offered by all competitors. The Regal’s reliability was considered average for the era, with some models experiencing more issues than others.
The Chevrolet Monte Carlo and Ford Thunderbird were known for their reliability, while the Chrysler LeBaron was notorious for its mechanical issues.
Cultural Impact and Legacy
The 1987 Buick Regal, while not as iconic as some of its predecessors, still played a significant role in shaping the automotive landscape of the late 1980s. It reflected the trends of the time, blending classic Buick styling with modern features, and even found its way into popular culture, albeit in a more subtle way.
Impact on Popular Culture
The 1987 Regal, while not a starring vehicle in major motion pictures or television shows, did make its way into the cultural consciousness through its association with the “yuppie” culture of the 1980s. Its sleek design and comfortable interior made it a popular choice for young professionals who were starting to make their mark in the world.
Final Thoughts
The 1987 Buick Regal stands as a testament to Buick’s commitment to quality and innovation. While the model may no longer be in production, its legacy continues to resonate with enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its sleek design, comfortable interior, and reliable performance remain attractive features for those seeking a classic American sedan.
Whether cruising down a highway or parked in a garage, the 1987 Buick Regal continues to turn heads, reminding us of a bygone era of automotive excellence.