Real Wheels: 1987 Buick Regal

LIMA — “Buick, Where Better Really Matters,” reads one 1987 Buick sales brochure while another one reads, “How To Buy A Hot Buick (A Simple Matter Of Exercising Your Options.)” The Buick Regal was a mid-size car introduced by General Motors for the 1973 model year to compete against the Olds Cutlass Supreme, the Grand Prix and the Monte Carlo. The Buick Regal shared the same body and power-train as the Century. The Regal followed the same philosophy as its GM siblings, with a long hood, short rear deck and chrome to suggest Cadillac-style quality, and an interior with wood grain trim. Owning a Regal, back in the mid 80’s signified upper middle class wealth. “The Doctors Car”, as the Buick Regal was once referred to, became a popular choice for doctors and other white collar professionals. GM ranked Buick 2nd, before Cadillac in its luxury car hierarchy.Carl Cowan, of Lima, brought his 1987 Buick Regal to The Lima News’ Real Wheels Cruise-In. He has owned it for six years. His best memory was the first time he fired the engine after replacing the V6 that came in it (it had a rod knocking).