1976 Buick Regal I Coupe (facelift 1976) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe falls between 1725 kg and 1744 kg (approximately 3804 to 3846 pounds). This weight includes all standard equipment and fluids but excludes passengers or cargo. The relatively heavy weight for a coupe of this era is indicative of its robust build quality, sizeable frame, and the presence of traditional American V8 powertrains, contributing to solid road feel and stability but impacting fuel efficiency. This weight class also means it offers a sturdy driving experience yet requires attention to braking and handling dynamics compared to lighter vehicles.

The 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe has a luggage capacity of 416 liters (approximately 14.7 cubic feet). For a two-door coupe from the 1970s, this trunk volume is quite practical, providing ample space for groceries, luggage, or weekend gear. The design balances sporty coupe styling with reasonable cargo practicality, making it a versatile vehicle for drivers who want style without sacrificing day-to-day usability. While not as large as sedans or station wagons, this capacity is competitive within its class and sufficient for many common needs.

The 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe commonly comes equipped with 14-inch rims. Tire sizes range from 185/75 R14, 195/70 R14, 205/65 R14, up to 215/60 R14. These sizes reflect a balance between comfort and handling, with narrower tires contributing to a smooth ride and better cushioning on rough roads, while the wider 215/60 tires offer improved grip and more precise steering response. The 14-inch rims, standard for the period, ensure compatibility with classic styling and maintain the vehicle's original design ethos while supporting adequate road contact and handling dynamics.

With a length of 5326 mm (209.6 inches), width of 1956 mm (77 inches), and height of 1336 mm (52.6 inches), the 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe can fit into a standard home garage, although it may be a tight fit lengthwise depending on the garage size. Standard single-car garages typically measure about 6 meters (20 feet) in length and around 3 meters (10 feet) in width. While the width and height present no issues, the Regal’s length approaches the upper limits for many home garages, so careful parking is necessary. It's advisable to measure your garage's dimensions before attempting to store the vehicle indoors regularly.

Despite its large exterior dimensions, the 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe balances exterior size with a comfortable interior designed to accommodate four passengers. The coupe layout emphasizes front and rear seat comfort, with enough headroom made possible by its roofline height of 1336 mm, although rear passengers may experience slightly reduced space compared to sedans. The wide body (1956 mm) allows for generous shoulder room, and the car’s suspension is tuned to provide a smooth ride. In general, the Regal offers a spacious and comfortable cabin for a 1970s coupe, combining style with passenger practicality.

The 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe facelift carried over the general large and wide dimensions from the 1973-1975 models, with minimal changes in length, width, and height. The facelift focused more on styling updates, such as grille design and lighting, rather than altering the car’s physical size. Both generations share similar dimensions, roughly 5326 mm in length and 1956 mm in width, maintaining the substantial road presence. Weight differences are also minor, with curb weights in the same range. This consistency allowed Buick to maintain familiar driving dynamics and passenger comfort while refreshing the vehicle's appearance for 1976.

Compared to other mid-1970s American coupes, the 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe is relatively large and heavy. Its 5326 mm length (209.6 inches) and 1956 mm width (77 inches) are on the upper end for coupes of the era, making it larger than many personal luxury cars like the Ford Thunderbird or Chevrolet Monte Carlo. The weight range of 1725-1744 kg (3804-3846 lbs) places it in a heavier class, reflecting its solid construction and luxury-oriented equipment. This size grants a spacious interior and smooth ride but also contributes to reduced fuel efficiency and less agile handling compared to smaller rivals.

The 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe facelift introduced several styling updates that refreshed the car’s appearance without changing its fundamental dimensions or mechanical layout. Key changes included a redesigned front grille with a more pronounced vertical bar design, updated lighting elements such as rectangular sealed-beam headlights replacing earlier round ones, and revised rear taillights. Mechanically, the car retained its robust V8 engine options and suspension setup, focusing more on refinement than performance upgrades. These updates aimed to modernize the Regal’s look and align it with Buick’s evolving brand identity during the mid-1970s.

Prospective buyers looking at the 1976 Buick Regal I Coupe should appreciate its classic American styling and substantial size, which offer a nostalgic driving experience with a roomy interior and smooth ride. However, compared to modern cars, the Regal lacks the latest safety features, fuel efficiency, and advanced technology. Its large dimensions and weight contribute to a leisurely driving style rather than nimble handling. Maintenance and parts availability for a vehicle from this era can be more challenging and costly. That said, its character and build quality make it appealing as a collector’s car or for enthusiasts valuing vintage American luxury coupes.