1976 Oldsmobile Regency 98
Oldsmobile’s flagship model reached its maximum physical dimensions during the 1971-1976 generation, with the Ninety-Eight establishing records for interior width that would not be matched until the full-size rear-wheel-drive GM models of the early to mid 1990s.
The Regency trim represented the premium offering within the line, positioned above the Luxury series and available as either a two-door coupe or four-door sedan.
Built on a 127-inch wheelbase (three inches longer than the Delta 88), the Regency featured rear quarter panels with Cadillac-influenced fender skirts distinguishing it from lesser Oldsmobiles. Four-door models incorporated distinctive C-pillar windows, while coupes could be specified with landau roof treatment creating prominent opera window proportions.
Standard equipment on 1976 Ninety-Eight Regency models included Oldsmobile’s 455-cubic-inch Rocket V8 with 4-barrel carburetor paired with a Turbo-Hydramatic three-speed automatic transmission, along with power front disc brakes, power steering, power windows, and a power driver’s seat (often with six-way adjustment on Regency).
The pushrod V8, designed to run on regular, low-lead, or unleaded gasoline, delivered adequate performance for the substantial curb weight, which approached 4,700 lbs (a little over two tons) in sedan form.
The 1976 model year marked the final season for this full-size C-body platform before extensive downsizing for 1977, which shortened overall length by roughly 20-25 inches and cut curb weight by about 700-800 pounds depending on body style.
Despite the reductions, the new 1977 Ninety-Eight maintained similar key interior dimensions, preserving much of the big Olds comfort in a more efficient package.
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