1996 BUICK REGAL
FLINT, Mich. -- Buick's 1996 Regal carries over with an extended production run until late fall. An all-new Regal will be introduced later in the 1997 model year. The 1996 Regal features a powerful standard V-6 engine, a more robust optional V-6 and numerous customer convenience features to enhance its reputation as a premium American midsize car.
The '96 Regal, offered in Custom, Gran Sport and Limited sedan models, provides an array of standard safety and security features such as dual air bags, anti-lock brakes and a PASS-Key II theft-deterrent system.
Standard on the Regal Custom is a 160-horsepower 3100 V-6. Optional on the Regal Custom, and standard on the Limited and Gran Sport, is the award-winning 205-horsepower 3800 Series II V-6.
A low-torque-axis engine mount system reduces engine noise and vibration at idle to an almost imperceptible level. A new, quieter starter motor and added engine compartment insulation further reduce engine noise.
An electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission is standard on all Regals. Also standard are four-wheel independent suspension and four-wheel Delco ABS VI anti-lock disc brakes.
Regal is equipped with a full range of comfort and convenience features. Standard are cruise control, power windows, power mirrors, automatic power door locks and an AM-FM radio with cassette player. The addition of retained accessory power means power windows and radio systems can be utilized after the vehicle is turned off and before the doors are opened for approximately 10 minutes.
Regal's standard dual ComforTemp climate controls allow the driver and front seat passenger to easily adjust the temperature for each side of the car.
Regal uses an on-board diagnostic system called OBD-II that can reduce exhaust emissions by warning of any system or engine malfunctions before they can affect exhaust emissions.
Sixteen-inch aluminum wheels are optional on Gran Sport.
IMPROVED STANDARD V-6
The 3100 V-6, standard on Regal Custom, benefited from a number of improvements for 1996, including a low-friction valvetrain for improved efficiency and an improved engine management system.
The 3100 V-6 is rated at 160-horsepower and 185 lb-ft of torque, matching the performance of more complex multi-valve engines. EPA fuel economy ratings are also excellent, at 20 miles per gallon city and 29 mpg highway.
Roller rocker arms reduce friction for a quieter engine and improved performance and fuel economy. Engine noise is also reduced by an improved intake manifold.
The 3100 uses a 60-degree layout, which is inherently balanced, providing a quiet idle and smooth acceleration.
All Regals are equipped with long-life features such as an engine coolant with recommended change interval of five years or 100,000 miles, platinum-tipped spark plugs with first recommended service at 100,000 miles and transmission fluid that requires no change under normal operating conditions.
OPTIONAL 3800 SERIES II V-6
Optional for the Regal Custom and standard with the Limited and Gran Sport models is the latest generation of Buick's proven 3.8-liter V-6, the 3800 Series II.
The 3800 Series II, significantly more powerful than the previous 3800, was named by Ward's Auto World for a prestigious "Ten Best Engines of 1996" award. It received a similar award for '95.
Horsepower of the 3800 Series II is rated 205 at 5200 rpm, a 35-horsepower increase over the previous 3800. This power increase was achieved without any loss of the low- and mid-range torque so important for the most common form of today's driving, stop-and-go. In fact, the Series II generates 230 lb-ft of torque, 5 lb-ft more than the previous 3800.
Fuel efficiency is also excellent. EPA ratings for the Regal equipped with the 3800 Series II are 19 mpg city and 30 mpg highway.
The cast-iron block has a lower deck height, further reducing the size and weight of the already compact engine. Cross-bolted main bearing caps stiffen the bottom end, reducing noise and improving durability.
Cylinder heads with symmetrical combustion chambers provide a smoother idle and lower exhaust emissions.
Larger valves and more efficient ports improve flow through the engine. The valves, springs and caps are lighter. Combined with a new camshaft and revised valvetrain parts, this extends the power band higher into the rpm range for a more satisfactory fun-to-drive experience.
COMFORT, CONVENIENCE AND SECURITY
Regal has a roomy cabin and a spacious trunk in a trim mid-size car, making it the perfect choice for buyers looking for a balance between comfort and efficiency.
A 55/45 split front seat with a storage armrest is standard, while bucket seats in either cloth or leather are available.
Regal's seats were designed by Buick's Seat Comfort Team using an advanced, systematic program of test drives and sophisticated computers. They hold the occupant firmly in place, yet distribute body weight evenly so there are no uncomfortable pressure points.
A quartz analog gauge cluster provides a full complement of instruments, including a tachometer and temperature gauge. Controls for the sound system and climate control feature large, backlit knobs and buttons, and easy to read displays.
The sophisticated PASS-Key II theft deterrent system is standard on Regal. When the key is inserted in the ignition, the system checks a coded pellet imbedded in the key. If the code isn't correct, the car won't start. The system resets after a number of minutes.
Regal also offers standard Convenience Plus electrical features. For example, with the delayed entry lighting feature, the interior lights remain on for 25 seconds after a door is closed, making it easier to enter the car. When the key is inserted into the ignition, the "theater dimming" lights fade down over about five seconds.
Convenience Plus also features warning chimes for leaving on turn signal or headlamps and for leaving keys in the ignition when exiting.