I have noticed the extreme similarities of nearly all of the buick airbags circa 1996 production. Will a 1996 buick Regal driver airbag function properly on a 1996 buick Park Avenue?

Probably; but unless the part numbers are the same you cannot be sure.

Mr BSS's!... advice is great.

Also part numbers for airbags may deviate a bit due to colors with some models steering pad when the drivers air bag is an integral part of the steering wheel hub.

Good Luck