what cars had the 3800 supercharged engine

[McLeonardo]

The 3800 supercharged engine, specifically the Series II L67 and its successor the L32, was a celebrated powertrain primarily found in General Motors' front-wheel-drive performance sedans and coupes from the late 1990s through the mid-2000s. The most common models equipped with this engine were the Pontiac Grand Prix GTP/Comp G, the Buick Regal GS, and the Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS. A related version, the supercharged 3800 Series II LX5, also powered the Pontiac Bonneville SSEI.

This engine was renowned for its durability and strong, low-end torque, producing 240 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque in its prime. It delivered a compelling blend of smooth acceleration and respectable fuel economy for its time. If you're searching for a used car with this engine, you'll be looking at models from the 1990s and early 2000s, as it was phased out by the end of the 2000s decade.

For a quick overview, here are the key models:

Model	Years Available	Key Features & Notes
Pontiac Grand Prix GTP/Comp G	1997-2008	The most sport-oriented option; the Comp G package added performance suspension.
Buick Regal GS	1997-2004	Focused on a more refined, comfortable sport sedan experience.
Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS	2000-2007	The lone coupe body style offering with this engine.
Pontiac Bonneville SSEI	1996-1999	Used the related LX5 engine; a full-size luxury performance sedan.
Buick Park Avenue Ultra	1996-2005	The flagship luxury model, offering supercharged performance in a quiet package.

These cars are now considered modern classics, prized for their straightforward mechanics and potent V6 power. When evaluating a used example, pay close attention to the supercharger's oil level and the condition of the intake manifold, which are common maintenance points for this otherwise robust engine.

[HopeMarie]

My first car was a hand-me-down Buick Regal GS with that engine. It’s not just about the numbers; it’s about the feeling. That supercharger has a distinct whine when you push the pedal, and the torque shove is immediate. It’s a heavy car, but it just pulls without any drama. You see them still on the road today because they were built to last. They’re getting harder to find in good shape, but they’re out there.

[VanAna]

From a purely mechanical standpoint, the supercharged 3800 (codes L67 and L32) is a masterpiece of simple, effective forced induction. It uses a Roots-type supercharger, which provides immediate boost pressure for strong low-end torque, unlike turbochargers which can have lag. This setup was applied to GM's GM80 and W-body platforms. If you're looking for parts or a car, search for those specific engine codes and the models they came in: Grand Prix GTP, Regal GS, Monte Carlo SS, and the Bonneville SSEI.

[Nicole]

Think of comfortable American coupes and sedans that could surprise you at a stoplight. That was the niche. The Buick Regal GS felt like a plush sofa that could outrun a lot of stuff on the road. The Pontiac Grand Prix GTP was the sportier version of the same idea. And the Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS brought that power to a two-door body. They weren't exotic sports cars, but they were quick, practical, and have a cult following now.

[GideonLee]

If you're hunting for one, your best bet is the Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, especially the 2004-2008 "Comp G" models. They have the best factory suspension and are often owned by enthusiasts who maintained them well. The Buick Regal GS is a great choice if you prioritize comfort. Check for service records related to the supercharger coupler—it can start making a rattling noise—and the plastic intake manifold, which was prone to cracking on earlier models. Good examples are appreciating in value.