I’m looking at a 2001 Buick Regal with the 3800 engine. I hear these engines are some of the best of the best from GM and even in comparison to other companies. Car has 167,000 miles, it’s needing a fuel tank sensor and an odometer sensor. I can get it for $2500 or less.
Any insights? Is it as bullet proof as some say? I love the ride and feel of these older “grandpa cars”. Thanks for any help.
I'd like to direct you to the car buying resources we've created for you. (all on our front page)
One is the FAQ . From there click on "How do I buy a vehicle" and there are links to many resources, such as lists of best and worst cars, carcomplaints.com, how to inspect cars, and various other buying tips.
The other is "Vehicles reviewed by Scotty". A database of all the vehicles Scotty has reviewed in the past few years, as well as his top picks.
Most of the time, we're just going to be quoting you from these resources anyway.
Hello!
I see you have been asking same question for different cars. I invite you to take a look at Scotty's opinions.
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/vid-review/vehicles-reviwed-by-scotty/
The 3800 was a good engine but that engine hasn't been used in a new car in the US in over 15 years.
$2500 for a 23 year old 'grandpa' car? That would likely turn out to be the start of an endless money pit.
It's a pretty big gamble
You'd be starting out with a car that's already 23 years old. How much longer do you think you'll be able to get out of it without major repairs? (Chances are it will need lots of minor ones along the way due to age-related deterioration.)
