1983 Oldsmobile 98 Regency review from North America

Valve cover gasket leaked.

Radiator had to be replaced.

Had the transmission rebuilt @ 150,000 miles.

Replaced heater/AC blower motor.

This was my first full size Oldsmobile, and I kept it for 12 years. I drove it daily through winter and summer.

It was without question the most reliable car I have ever owned (and I have owned many). It only failed to start ONCE in all the time I've owned it, and this was in deep sub-zero weather (about -30 degrees F.)

The 307 V8 engine always ran smoothly, and still did when I had to let it go because of excessive body rust. The 307 had adequate power and has a history of longevity. 224,000 miles was no stretch for this engine, and I've known of others who achieved well over 450,000 miles with them.

The weak spot for the rear wheel drive GM vehicles of this vintage, and not just Oldsmobiles, were the 200 series transmissions used in them. The 200's are not known for longevity, but with regular fluid changes, and minimal if any towing, they're typically good for the 150,000 of service I received.

I enjoyed the car so much that I have to date owned five of them. Most recently I was extraordinarily lucky enough to have found, and purchase a 1983 98 Regency 2 door with an astounding 1,600 original miles on it! (yes, you read it right!) Virtually a new car in every respect! Truly an Oldsmobile lovers once in a lifetime dream car!

Typical gas mileage for these are 16/17 city and 20/22 highway on regular gasoline.