Image of 1986 Buick Somerset, sourced from barnfinds.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1986 Buick Somerset: An Emblem of American Ingenuity

The year 1986 heralded the arrival of the Buick Somerset, a vehicle that encapsulated the essence of American automotive ambition. Born from the stables of General Motors, this compact car was named after the affluent Somerset County in New Jersey, aiming to blend luxury with practicality. As a successor to the Buick Skylark and a contemporary to models like the Chevrolet Cavalier and Pontiac Sunbird, the Somerset stood out with its unique style and advanced features for its era. A notable moment in its history was its debut at a time when the automotive industry was transitioning from rear-wheel-drive dominance to front-wheel-drive efficiency.

Design and Innovation: A Glimpse into the Future

The exterior of the 1986 Buick Somerset was a testament to design finesse, boasting clean lines and an aerodynamic silhouette that echoed the forward-thinking ethos of the mid-80s. The vehicle's front fascia, with its distinctive grille and headlamp arrangement, gave it a dignified presence on the road. Inside, passengers were greeted with a cabin that prioritized comfort, featuring plush seating and an ergonomic layout. The use of premium materials such as soft-touch plastics and optional leather upholstery elevated the interior ambiance. Technological advancements were not amiss in this model. The digital instrument cluster, uncommon at the time, was a futuristic touch that intrigued tech-savvy buyers. Color options ranged from conservative shades to more vibrant hues, with popular choices including Apple Red and Midnight Blue. Body styles primarily consisted of a two-door coupe, with trim levels that catered to varying tastes and budgets.

Historical Significance: Paving New Roads

The Somerset's introduction marked a pivotal moment for Buick as it sought to redefine its image and appeal to a younger demographic. Its front-wheel-drive layout was significant during an era when many manufacturers were making this transition to improve fuel efficiency and handling. The Somerset's blend of luxury elements within a compact frame set it apart from competitors and influenced subsequent designs within the GM family.

Performance and Handling: A Balanced Act

Underneath its hood, the 1986 Buick Somerset offered respectable performance figures for its class. While top speed and acceleration times were not record-breaking—with 0-60 mph achieved in a modest timeframe—the car delivered adequate power for daily commutes and highway cruising alike. Handling was characterized by stability and comfort rather than sportiness, with suspension tuned more for ride quality than sharp cornering. Driving the Somerset was an experience punctuated by smoothness; from the hum of its inline-four or optional V6 engine to the well-insulated cabin that shielded occupants from road noise. The interaction between driver and machine was intuitive, thanks in part to user-friendly controls and clear visibility.

Ownership Experience: Beyond Just Transportation

The 1986 Buick Somerset found its niche among those seeking a reliable daily driver with an upscale twist. It also garnered attention on the show car circuit due to its distinctive style. Maintenance was generally straightforward, aligning with GM's reputation for producing user-serviceable vehicles at that time.

Fun Facts: The Somerset's Unique Legacy

Despite not being known for setting speed records or dominating sales charts, the Somerset did have its share of interesting trivia. For instance, it featured one of GM's earliest uses of computer-aided design tools during development. While not widely recognized for celebrity ownerships or endurance records, it did face criticism for some reliability issues—particularly with its innovative digital dashboard—which now serves as a lesson in early electronic integration in vehicles.

Collector's Information: Assessing Value and Rarity

Today, finding a 1986 Buick Somerset can be akin to uncovering a hidden gem. Production numbers were not exceedingly high compared to mass-market contemporaries, suggesting a degree of rarity in current times. As for value range, well-preserved examples could fetch anywhere from low four figures up to potentially five figures for pristine models or those with significant historical provenance. Price trends suggest that while Somersets are not skyrocketing in value like some classic cars, they maintain steady appreciation among niche collectors who value their unique place in automotive history.

Conclusion: Celebrating an Overlooked Classic

The 1986 Buick Somerset may not have rewritten history books or shattered sales records, but it stands as an intriguing chapter in GM's storied past—a chapter that reminds us how innovation can manifest in even the most unassuming packages. Whether you're behind the wheel or admiring from afar, this compact luxury coupe is deserving of recognition in America's automotive tapestry.

1986 Buick Somerset Automatic brake pedal pad fits '78-88 GM A, Spec A, G Body-CB 101-DCB 101-D replaces the automatic brake pedal pad on many 1978-1988 General Motors A, Spec A and G body models. Also fits many 1982-1991 GM J, L, N and P body models. 4-1/2" wide X 2-1/2" long. Each

1986 Buick Somerset Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1986 Buick Somerset Windshield Reveal Molding, 82-92 GM F, 82-88 GM A, 82-89 GM J, 85-91 GM N Bodies-VWS 1967-LWindshield Reveal Molding, 82-92 GM F, 82-88 GM A, 82-89 GM J, 85-91 GM N Bodies, Each.