Buick Limited Convertible 1958 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Limited Convertible 1958

The 1958 model year is remembered by enthusiasts as the apex of automotive excess: the largest-ever cars with the most lavish trim.
Few were more chrome-covered than the 1958 Buick Limited, a new series that brought back the famous Limited name, once used to denote Buick’s largest, grandest, and most expensive models. True to that heritage, the 1958 Limited was the top of the line, carrying the same dynamic “Fashion Air Dynastar” styling as other Flint products of the year, including a remarkable grille composed of 160 faceted chrome squares, but with more brightwork on a longer 127.5-inch-wheelbase chassis, for a total span from nose to nose of over 227 inches! Distinctive to the Limited were the “hash marks” along the rear fenders, as well as a more sumptuous interior and two-speed Flight Pitch Dynaflow transmission, featuring three turbines and a variable-pitch stator.

Buick Limited Convertible 1958

Detroit was caught unawares by 1958’s flash recession, and sales of their glittering dreamboats were hit hard across the line—few more so than the Limited, which proved to be worthy of that name in more ways than one. The rarest Buick sold in the United States that year was the Limited Convertible, of which only 839 were built in what would be both the first and last season for the model.
It is important to note that the Limited Convertible presented here is not a “Johnny-come-lately” to the Kughn Collection; it was acquired in 1990, at a time when Mr. Kughn was more focused on CCCA Full Classics, and has remained in the collection for the past 25 years, an indication of the esteem in which it is held. It is believed to have been shown at a major competition only once, the Meadow Brook Concours d’Elegance in 1990, with its other appearances having been mainly at small local shows. It did earn, however, an appearance in Rex Roy’s Motor City Dream Garages as part of a feature story on the Kughns and their collection.

Buick Limited Convertible 1958

The car is finished in its original color combination of Warwick Blue with a two-tone leather interior and white power top. It appears to have been restored at about the time that it joined the Kughn Collection and has been well maintained since. Its lacquer paint has a nice patina, as does the interior, and both resemble well-maintained original finishes; the chrome has held up well throughout, and much of it may well be original. Equipment includes the standard automatic transmission, a dual-range heater, Wonderbar radio, power windows, dual spotlights, and chrome fender skirts.

Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon 1957 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon 1957

It was not until 1940 that Buick added a wagon to their catalogue, though specialty builders had constructed bodies to special order on Buick chassis prior to that time. Although many manufacturers confined their wagons to the lower-priced series—Ford considered them commercial cars until 1939—Buick made them upmarket models. The introductory 1940 wagons were in the Super series, although in 1941 and ’42, they moved down a notch to the 40-B line, the more upscale of two Special models. Always, though, they were called Estate Wagons, leaving no doubt as to their status.

Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon 1957

After World War II, Buick’s Special offered sedans only. The wagon reappeared as a Super and was joined by the longer-wheelbase Roadmaster stablemate for 1947. Bodies for both were built by Ionia Manufacturing Company in Michigan. By 1949, the wood sections appeared ornamental but were, in fact, still structural members of the body. What Buick lacked in being a Johnny-come-lately to the marketplace was more than made up for with the last true wood wagon in 1953. Following the groundbreaking Plymouth Suburban of 1949, all other manufacturers had long since gone “all steel.”

Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon 1957

For 1954, Buick, too, went all steel, with two handsome four-door Estate Wagons, one in the Special series and the other in the reestablished Century line. These offerings continued into 1955 and ’56, but for 1957, Buick had another trick up its sleeve. There was a four-door Estate Wagon in the Special series as well as a Riviera hardtop Estate Wagon. The more upscale and more powerful Century offered a hardtop wagon bearing the moniker Caballero, invoking a Spanish idiom. Interestingly, the Caballero was more popular than either of the Special wagons, with 10,186 built. A third seat became an optional accessory.

Buick Century Caballero Estate Wagon 1957

Purchased new through William Murphy Buick in Culver City, California, this 1957 Century Caballero Estate Wagon is believed to have had only two private owners. Its first owner, in Rancho Palos Verdes, California, kept it until 2012, when it was donated to the George W. Bush Foundation. At that point, it was fully restored by Jay Leno’s Big Dog Garage and signed “George W. Bush #43” by the former president on the inside of the driver’s door. The restoration was done by Leno’s team at no cost to the Bush Foundation, whereupon the car was sold to benefit the George W. Bush Military Service Initiative, a charity for post-9/11 veterans.

At restoration, a couple of technology touches were installed, including dual circuit power hydraulic brakes and Vintage Air climate control. The six-passenger wagon has a large covered storage well in the rear section. Other equipment includes power steering, a radio, and seat belts.

Buick Special Convertible 1958 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Special Convertible 1958

The Arthur Kudner Agency handled Buick’s advertising, and they came up with some attention-grabbing names for the latest styling developments. The 1958 design was “The Air-Borne B-58 Buick” (a tip of the cap to America’s frontline nuclear bomber), and from its Fashion-Aire Dynastar Grille, Vista Vision quad headlamps, and Gunsight front-fender ornaments to its reverse-canted, heavily chrome-laden fins, the new Buick practically shouted, “Look at me!”
It was a noteworthy year for Buick on many fronts. It was the first year for the aforementioned quad headlamps, the last for the storied Dynaflow transmission (after four million built), and the first and last for what Buick called “Air Poise” suspension at all four corners. It was also the first year since 1948 that Buicks were built without their trademark “ventiports” on the front fenders, and a 1958 model was the one-millionth Buick equipped with power brakes. Power-boosted or not, finned aluminum front brake drums gave Buick the best stopping power of any American car, and even the Special’s 240-horsepower motor made it very competitive against anything in its class.

Buick Special Convertible 1958

Our Special Convertible was originally sold new to James Grant Sharpe, of Alamance, North Carolina. It was eventually brought to California, where a dealer purchased it and kept it until its acquisition by the present owner. He was pleased to find that the car was completely rust-free, making for an easy basis for a cosmetic restoration in the original color scheme of Carlsbad Black with Red leather interior; paint and chrome were redone throughout, while the interior is partially original. The engine was rebuilt several years ago, and the owner happily notes that it still runs well.
Equipment includes the optional Dynaflow automatic transmission; power steering, brakes, and top; a modern refit radio; and all-new wire wheels shod in radial tires. Finding the original spare in the trunk, the owner remounted the original tire on a fifth new wire wheel so that it remains original yet also matches the other wheels.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible Phaeton 1941 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Roadmaster Convertible Phaeton 1941

Buick had five different models for the 1941 model year, with one of the most prestigious being the mighty Roadmaster on its 126-inch-wheelbase chassis with the large 165-horsepower overhead-valve inline eight-cylinder engine. Among the most elegant body styles was the four-door convertible phaeton, which would be the last convertible sedan offered on a production Buick chassis. Only 312 were built, and only about 17 of those are known to survive today.
The convertible phaeton shown today from Howard and Norma Weaver’s collection has been driven only about 835 miles since its restoration and remains in excellent condition. Its body fit and finish are very nice throughout, with even gaps and margins, and the finish of the paint, chrome, and trim are in excellent overall condition. The body is finished in a period-correct metallic gray, while the interior is in dark maroon with matching door panels and carpets and facing a proper wood-grained dashboard with correct instruments.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible Phaeton 1941

The engine bay is clean and detailed, and it shows off the desirable Compound Carburetion, or dual carburetors, that were such a desirable feature on this year’s Buicks, offering abundant performance for their class. The chassis is similarly clean and well finished, while the wheels have their proper and correct hubcaps, trim rings, and whitewall tires. Optional extras include bumper guards, a grille guard, a dashboard-mounted clock, an AM radio, and fog lights.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1950 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1950

The beginning of Buick’s new post-war designs came in 1949, as did some new models. Innovations included the introduction of the two-speed Dynaflow transmission and solidly built, heavily trimmed automobiles that created a new, modern look, different from the flowing Art Deco designs of the 1930s and 1940s. At the top of the line was the posh Series 70 Roadmaster. On the 1950 models, the Roadmaster, along with other Buicks, was distinguished by a large, bright, “toothy” grille that descended below the car, giving it a highly distinctive and unique front-end appearance.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1950

The Roadmaster Convertible presented here, one of approximately 3,000 built, was professionally restored to exacting standards from a good, solid, original car. It has scarcely been driven since its completion and has enjoyed climate-controlled display in the Howard and Norma Weaver Collection. The restoration remains in very good older condition, with excellent fit and finish of the straight, original body panels, which are finished in period-correct dark metallic blue. Most of the chrome and stainless-steel trim items have been professionally refinished and remain in fine overall condition, as does the interior, upholstered in brown leather with matching door panels and carpets, and the tan fabric Haartz convertible top. Importantly, the power top mechanism has been restored to function correctly.
Underneath the car shows quality restoration work and hardly any signs of use; the engine is extremely clean and highly detailed and has all of the correct hose clamps, decals, and labels.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1957 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1957

In 1957, Buick’s top-of-the-line Roadmaster was given a new body, 10 inches longer than before with a rakishly lowered roofline, “sweepspear” side trim accents, front fender “ventiports,” bodacious “Dagmar” bumpers, and fully radiused rear fenders (inspired by the Wildcat III show car). Inside was a padded dashboard with a bright metallic overall motif and rich leather upholstery as standard equipment. The overall effect was a sumptuous automobile, with superb power from the “nailhead” V-8 under the hood, now displacing 364 cubic inches and producing a full 300 horsepower. Perhaps most desirable of the 1957 Roadmasters was the convertible, of which only 4,364 were built.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1957

The car presented here was the recipient, under previous ownership, of a high-quality, nut-and-bolt frame-off restoration, which is evident in its condition today. The body panels close well and have nice shut lines and gaps, and little if any wear or age is visible in the Carlsbad Black and red finish, which has a rich, deep shine. The red leather interior is beautiful and in very good condition, with a good tight fit over the cushions, and is accentuated by a red top boot, while the 40-spoke chrome wire wheels are set off beautifully by whitewall tires. Options and accessories are abundant throughout, including power brakes, steering, and windows; a Wonderbar push-button AM radio with power antenna; a heater/defroster; and a dashboard clock.

Buick Roadmaster Convertible 1957

Under the hood is especially nicely detailed, with proper painted details and recreated finishes throughout, including a proper Delco battery.
During its time in the Kughn Collection, this superb Roadmaster has been displayed at the Concours d’Elegance of America at St. John’s in 2011, as well as at that year’s Bay Harbor Vintage Car & Boat Festival in Northern Michigan. That it has been so proudly shown is indicative of its quality and beauty, features that are as evident today as they were in 1957.

Buick Skylark Convertible 1953 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Skylark Convertible 1953

The Skylark was first displayed as a General Motors Motorama car in 1952, and it was essentially a factory-built “sport custom” that was based on the Roadmaster Convertible. The windshield was chopped four inches, while the beltline was cut down and notched at the rear fender line, and the rear-wheel cutouts were rounded and raised to match those in the front fenders. These were all techniques being used by California’s customizers during the same period. The model was noteworthy for lacking Buick’s trademark “ventiports” on the front fenders, and it rode on standard Kelsey-Hayes wire wheels.

Buick Skylark Convertible 1953

A production version of the Skylark wowed the following year, as it was a limited-production offering that celebrated Buick’s 50th anniversary. The production Skylark was noteworthy both for its beautiful design and as the car that debuted Buick’s first modern overhead-valve V-8, also called the “nailhead,” which could produce 188 horsepower. Power steering, brakes, windows, seat, antenna, and convertible top were included in the nearly $5,000 price tag, which helped to keep sales to just 1,690 units.
While the Skylark name would continue as a limited-production model for 1954 and would reappear in Buick’s hierarchy for decades, the 1953 model is generally considered the most special and desirable by collectors. Along with the original Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Fiesta of the same year, it was a true example of Harley Earl’s “dream car design” that had been put on the street for the public to buy.

Buick Skylark Convertible 1953

The Skylark presented here was restored in 1993 for a previous owner in Majestic White with a Red and White interior and black canvas top, and it is equipped with the optional chrome exhaust tip. In 1998, it was shown in Buick Club of America competition, achieving National Senior Gold status with 391 out of 400 points. It was then sold in August 1999 to the renowned collector of American 1950s convertibles Tom Gerrard, known for his superior, well-optioned cars and their outstanding restorations. That Mr. Gerrard chose to purchase this car, already finished, is a nod to the quality of the work done. In October 1999, the car achieved its AACA National First Junior at Hershey, followed by its Senior honors at Pompano Beach, Florida, in 2000. It remained a well-maintained part of Mr. Gerrard’s collection for over a decade, before its acquisition by the present owner.

Buick Series 90 Sport Roadster 1931 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Series 90 Sport Roadster 1931

Through the first three decades of the 20th century, Buick championed the inherently superior and better-performing overhead-valve engine in popularly priced automobiles. In 1931, the company made an important engineering shift from their long-lived six-cylinder engine, as the engineers had grown to feel that the design had reached its limits in size, smoothness, and efficiency. In its place, Buick employed an all-new straight eight-cylinder engine design to power its cars, the cache of which—an entire line of eight-cylinder models!—was thought to be good for sales and the marketplace.

Buick Series 90 Sport Roadster 1931

Leading the all-eight-cylinder Buick line for 1931 was the Series 90, with a 104-horsepower engine that incorporated such innovations as an oil temperature regulator to cool the engine at high speeds and warm it in cold weather, as well as thermostatically controlled radiator shutters, as found on Duesenbergs and Packards. According to historian Beverly Rae Kimes, every component of the new model was tested over hundreds of thousands of miles to ensure that it would be as durable as previous Buicks. The basic resemblance of the Series 90 to a Cadillac was no coincidence; the two shared many of the same Fisher bodies, and the introduction of the 1931 Series 90 marked the beginning of a decade-long Cadillac-Buick rivalry for high-end luxury sales.

Buick Series 90 Sport Roadster 1931

Not surprisingly, the Series 90 is today one of the few Buicks accorded Full Classic status by the Classic Car Club of America.
The 1931 Series 90 Sport Roadster presented here, one of the rare survivors of only 843 built, displays a quality of restoration that meets the most discriminating standards. Having been a Southern car, it was reportedly in outstanding and rust-free condition, before being acquired by renowned Michigan collector Marvin Tamaroff. The car was restored for Mr. Tamaroff by the noted Harry Sherry of Warsaw, Ontario, a renowned craftsman known for his superior attention to detail. The body was refinished in black with a red underbody and leather interior with matching carpeting; similarly, the trunk at the rear was done in black leather, and lined in red, like the fitted luggage contained within.

Buick Series 90 Sport Roadster 1931

Very well equipped, the Sport Roadster is outfitted with dual driving lights and cowl lights, frosted wind wings, dual side-mounted spares with covers and mirrors, and the accessory side curtains, which can be installed should it be caught in the rain.

Buick Super 8 1948 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Super 8 1948

Buick Super 8 1948

Buick Super 8 1948

Buick Riviera 1990 - World Of Classic Cars -

Buick Riviera 1990

The Buick Riviera is a luxury car manufactured from 1963 to 1999. GM's first entry into that prestige niche, the Riviera was highly praised by automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut. While early models stayed close to the original form, subsequent generations varied substantially over the Riviera's thirty-year lifespan. The coupés were converted to unibody construction and further downsized for 1986, to a 108 inch wheelbase shared with the Buick Regal. This generation was noted for advanced electronic instrumentation. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard. With a choice of three suspension packages available, up to the performance oriented FE3 setting, handling was notably improved. Fuel economy was notably improved for the 1986 Riviera. The last 1993 Riviera rolled off the Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly plant line on December 10, 1992.

Buick Riviera - World Of Classic Cars - Rank 193

Buick Riviera 1963

The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car produced by Buick from 1963 to 1999. GM's first entry into that prestige niche, the Riviera was highly praised by automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut. While early models stayed close to the original form, subsequent generations varied substantially over the Riviera's thirty-year lifespan. In all, 1,127,261 were produced.
Unlike its contemporary GM E platform stablemates, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado, the Riviera was only front wheel drive from 1979 to 1999.
The Riviera name has been given to concept cars displayed at auto shows in 2007 and 2013 in hopes of resurrecting the marque, but no plans to do so are currently in place.

Origins

The Riviera name

Buick Riviera Stage 1 GS Coupe

The name Riviera, Latin for coastline, was chosen to evoke the allure and affluence of the French Riviera. It first entered the Buick line in 1949, as the designation for the new two-door pillarless hardtop, described in advertising as "stunningly smart". The Buick Roadmaster Riviera coupe (along with the Cadillac Coupe de Ville and Oldsmobile 98 Holiday coupe) constituted the first mass production use of this body style, which was to become extremely popular over the next 30 years. Buick added a two-door Riviera hardtop to the Super the following year, the Special in 1951 and the Century upon its return, after a 12-year absence, in 1954.

Buick Riviera 1971

From 1951 to 1953 the Riviera designation was given to the existing long wheelbase versions of the four-door Buick Roadmaster and Super sedans. The 1951–53 Buick Roadmaster and Super four-door Riviera sedans feature more standard features, more plush interior trim and, most significantly, a wheelbase (and overall length) that is 4 inches (102 mm) longer than a regular Buick Roadmaster or Super four-door sedan. The 1951–52 Buick Super four-door Riviera sedan is still 0.75 inches (19 mm) shorter in wheelbase and length than the regular Buick Roadmaster and 4.75 inches (121 mm) shorter than the Roadmaster four-door Riviera sedan. In 1953, with the move from the Fireball straight-eight to the more compact Nailhead V8 engine, the Roadmaster and Super four-door Riviera sedans became the same length.

Buick Riviera

In the middle of the 1955 model year, Buick and Oldsmobile introduced the world's first mass-produced four-door hardtops, with Buick offering it only on the Century and Special models, and the Riviera designation was also applied to these body styles. Four-door Riviera hardtops were added to the Roadmaster and Super lines at the beginning of the following model year. However, since it was a body style designation and not a model, the Riviera name does not usually appear on the car.
In 1959, Buick became much more selective in applying the Riviera name. From then until 1963 it only was used to denote a premium trimmed six-window hardtop style which it initially shared exclusively with Cadillac (the Oldsmobile 98 would receive it in 1961) and was available only on the Electra 225. The last usage of the term Riviera to describe to describe a luxury trim level was 1963, as the formal designation of the #4829 Electra 225 Riviera four-door hardtop, the same year the E-body model two-door hardtop coupe Riviera made its debut.

Debut as a personal luxury car

Buick Riviera

In the late 1950s, GM lacked a personal luxury car to compete with the highly successful Ford Thunderbird—a uniquely styled, two-door, four-passenger car. To fill this gap, an experimental Cadillac design (the XP-715) was created. Its angular styling was reportedly inspired by GM styling chief Bill Mitchell's visit to London during the period, when he was struck by the sight of an elegant, custom-bodied Rolls Royce. He later said that "knife-edged" styling was what he wanted for the new model, but with a lower profile. The design itself was penned by stylist Ned Nickles.

Buick Riviera 1963

However, Cadillac management was not particularly interested in such a vehicle and in 1960 the project was thrown open for competition by the other divisions. Buick, desperate to revive its flagging sales, enlisted the aid of the McCann-Erickson advertising agency to create its presentation. Buick won, and the finished design was adapted to a shortened version of Buick's cruciform frame. The design was substantially the same as the original, although the hidden headlights—originally concealed in the fender grilles—were initially omitted for cost reasons.

First generation (1963–1965)

Buick Riviera 1963

The production Riviera's distinctive bodyshell was unique to it, unusual for a GM product. It rode a cruciform frame similar to the standard Buick frame, but shorter and narrower, with a 2.0 in (51 mm) narrower track. Its wheelbase of 117 in (3,000 mm) and overall length of 208 in (5,300 mm) were 6.0 inches (150 mm) and 7.7 in (200 mm) shorter, respectively, than a Buick LeSabre, but slightly longer than a contemporary Thunderbird. At 3,998 lb (1,813 kg), it was about 390 pounds (180 kg) lighter than either. It shared the standard Buick V8 engines, with a displacement of either 401 cu in (6.57 L) or 425 cu in (6.96 l), and the unique continuously variable design twin turbine automatic transmission. Power brakes were standard, using Buick's massive "Al-Fin" (aluminum finned) drums of 12 in (300 mm) diameter. Power steering was standard equipment, with an overall steering ratio of 20.5:1, giving 3.5 turns lock-to-lock.

Buick Riviera

The Riviera's suspension uses Buick's standard design, with double wishbones front and a live axle located by trailing arms and a lateral track bar, but the roll centers were raised to reduce body lean. Although its coil springs were actually slightly softer than other Buicks, the Riviera's lighter weight made its ride somewhat firmer. While still biased towards understeer, contemporary testers considered it one of the most driveable American cars, with an excellent balance of comfort and agility.

Buick Riviera

Rather than the "Sweepspear" used on beltlines of earlier Buicks with the Riviera package, the new Rivera sported new "Coke bottle styling", with the middle of the body exhibiting a tapered tucked-in appearance.
The Riviera was introduced on October 4, 1962, as a 1963 model, with the 325 hp (242 kW) 401 cu in (6.6 l) "Nailhead" V-8 as the only available engine, fitted with dual exhaust as standard equipment, and the turbine drive the only transmission, at a base price of $4,333; typical delivered prices with options ran upwards of $5,000. Buick announced in December 1962, the availability of a 340 hp (254 kW) 425 cu in (7.0 l) version of the Nailhead as an option. Total production was deliberately limited to 40,000 vehicles (in a year that Buick sold 440,000 units overall) to emphasize its exclusivity and to increase demand; only 2,601 of them were delivered with the 425 cu in (7.0 l) engine in the 1963 model year.

Buick Riviera 1963

With the same power as the larger Buicks and less weight, the Riviera had sparkling all-around performance: Motor Trend found it capable of running 0–60 mph (0–97 km/h) in 8 seconds or less, the standing quarter mile in about 16 seconds, and an observed top speed of 115 miles per hour (185 km/h). Fuel economy was a meager 13.2 miles per US gallon (17.8 L/100 km; 15.9 mpg-imp). Front leg room was 40.1 inches.
Inside, the Riviera featured a four-place cabin with front bucket seats separated by a center console with floor shifter and storage compartment that was built into the instrument panel, and bucket-style seats in the rear. Upholstery choices included all-vinyl, cloth and vinyl, or optional leather. A deluxe interior option included real walnut inserts on the doors and below the rear side windows. Popular extra-cost options included a tilt steering wheel, power windows, power driver's seat, air conditioning, a remote-controlled side view mirror, and white sidewall tires.

Buick Riviera 1963

The Riviera continued with minimal trim changes for 1964 including the discontinuation of leather upholstery from the option list, differing mainly in substitution of the old Dynaflow-based twin turbine for the new three-speed Super Turbine 400. The Super Turbine 400 was marketed as Turbo Hydra-Matic by other GM divisions, but in the Buick version (also used in the 1964 Electra 225) had a variable pitch torque converter like the old twin turbine Dynaflow had. The 1964 version used a two speed "D,L" selector but could automatically downshift from third to second until the car reached a suitable speed to downshift to first. This was the first year that the Stylized "R" emblem was used on the Riviera, a trademark that would continue throughout the remainder of Riviera's 36-year production run. Under the hood, the 401 cu in (6.6 l) was dropped as the standard power plant in favor of the previously optional 340 hp (254 kW) 425 cu in (7.0 l) V8. A 'Super Wildcat' version was optionally available, with dual Carter AFB four-barrel carburetors, rated at 360 hp (268 kW).

Buick Riviera 1971

Changes for 1965 included the introduction of the "Gran Sport" option, which included the dual-quad Super Wildcat 425 V8, a numerically higher 3.42 axle ratio, and stiffer, heavy-duty suspension. The stock dual exhaust pipes were increased from 2.0 inches (51 mm) to 2.25 inches (57 mm) inside diameter and had fewer turns to reduce backpressure. The 401 cu in (6.6 l) V8 returned as the standard Riviera engine and the Super Turbine 400 transmission retained the variable pitch torque converter, but was fitted with a three-speed gear selector. Externally, the headlamps were concealed behind clamshell doors in the leading edges of each fender, as in the original design. Further back, the non-functional side scoops between the doors and rear wheel arches were removed, and the taillights were moved from the body into the rear bumper. A vinyl roof became available as an option, initially offered only in black, and the tilt steering wheel optional in previous years was now standard equipment.

Buick Riviera 1963

Total sales for the three model years was a respectable 112,244. All in all, the Riviera was extremely well received and considered a great success, giving the Thunderbird its first real competition.
The 1963–1965 Riviera met with approval from all quarters, and has since earned Milestone status from the Milestone Car Society. Jaguar founder and designer Sir William Lyons said that Mitchell had done "a very wonderful job," and Sergio Pininfarina declared it "one of the most beautiful American cars ever built; it has marked a very impressive return to simplicity of American car design." At its debut at the Paris Auto Show, Raymond Loewy said the Riviera was the handsomest American production car—apart from his own Studebaker Avanti, that is, the Riviera's only real competition for 1963. The first-generation Riviera is considered a styling landmark, and is quite collectible today.

Second generation (1966–1970)

Buick Riviera 1971

The Riviera was redesigned for the 1966 model year. It retained its cruciform frame, powertrain, and brakes, but it wore a longer, wider, more curvaceous body that modernized the "sweepspear" inspired beltline introduced in the previous generation. This generation shared its platform with the Oldsmobile Toronado, and, a year later, with the Cadillac Eldorado. A notable styling point was the absence of vent windows, a feature GM had introduced with a flourish in the 1930s. Headlamps remained concealed, but they now pivoted up above the grille when not in use. Unlike the Toronado and Eldorado, the Riviera retained a conventional rear wheel drive layout. It was now some 200 pounds (91 kg) heavier, so acceleration with the unchanged 425 engine was slightly slower. The Gran Sport package remained available as an option. Rear seat belts and AM/FM radio were optional.
Inside, the four-place cabin with front and rear bucket seats and center console was replaced by a choice of bucket seats or conventional bench seats as standard equipment, making the Riviera a full six-passenger car for the first time. Optionally available was a Strato-bench seat with armrest or Strato bucket seats with either a short consolette or a full-length operating console with a "horseshoe" shaped floor shifter and storage compartment. Both the buckets and Strato-bench seat were available with a reclining seat option for the passenger's side. Sales for 1966 rebounded to 45,308, a new record.

Buick Riviera 1963

The most significant change for 1967 was the adoption of Buick's entirely new V8 of 430 cu in (7.0 L) displacement, 360 horsepower (270 kW) and 475 lb·ft (644 N·m) of torque to replace the old 425 "nailhead". The new engine, with greater power and torque on hand, represented a significant performance improvement. Gasoline mileage improved slightly with the new engine, though it remained gas-thirsty compared to modern cars. Powerful disc brakes with Bendix four-piston calipers became optional for the front wheels but most Riviera continued to be ordered with Buick's aluminum brake drums which were almost as good. Cosmetically, changes were few, and were limited to the addition of a wide, full-width, center-mounted horizontal chrome grille bar that stretched over the headlight doors and outboard parking lights. Sales eased to 42,799 for the 1967 model year. The Riviera had full instrumentation.

Buick Riviera 1963

1967 saw the introduction of U.S. mandated safety equipment to improve occupant protection during a crash, including an energy-absorbing steering column, non-protruding control knobs, 4-way hazard flasher, soft interior surfaces, locking seat backs (on 2-door models), a dual-circuit hydraulic braking system (with warning light), and shoulder belt anchors. Of course Rivieras complied on all counts and featured the full range of safety features.

Buick Riviera 1963

1968 models had reshaped front and rear loop-type bumpers that encased the vehicle's (recessed crosshatch) grille and tail lamps, respectively. Hidden wiper arms were also new. Federally mandated side marker lights were of an inverted trapezoidal shape on the lower leading edges of the front fenders. Rear marker lights were circular. The interior was restyled and, unlike the 1966–67 models, shared its instrument panel with the other full-size Buick models. Shoulder belts for front outboard occupants were made standard on all cars built from January 1, 1968. There were very few mechanical changes in 1968 but the transmission lost its variable pitch torque converter. Sales set another new record in 1968, as 49,284 units were sold.

Buick Riviera Stage 1 GS Coupe 1973

For 1969, minor styling changes took place. Grilles changed from the crosshatch pattern seen in '68 to a pattern of finely spaced, slim vertical bars overlaid by two wider horizontal bars, which jutted forward at their inboard edges. Front marker lights became far shorter, and square in shape. Inside, front outboard passengers got new headrests. The ignition switch was moved from the instrument panel to the steering column, and it now locked the steering wheel and selector lever when the key was removed (This feature became mandatory for the 1970 model year). Chrome side trim was revised, as well. At the rear, the reverse lights were move from the rear bumper into the '69 Riviera's new 3-section tail light lenses. Sales for 1969 improved again, to 52,872. A new front suspension system was used.

Buick Riviera 1971

The 1970 Riviera was restyled. Exposed quad headlamps were nearly flush-mounted, while the new front bumper wrapped around and over the new vertical bar grille, set between the headlamp pods. A newly optional side trim feature accented the large coupe's flowing lines. Skirted rear wheels became standard, with exposed wheels an option. At the rear, a new rear bumper/taillight motif was seen. The engine was upgraded to 455 cu in (7.46 L), the largest engine Buick offered to date, rated at 370 horsepower (280 kW) gross, 245 hp (183 kW) net, and over 500 lb·ft (680 N·m) of torque. Despite the fact that '70 sales dropped to 37,366, the second-generation Riviera proved more successful than the first, with 227,669 units sold over five seasons.

Third generation (1971–1973)

Buick Riviera 1966

The Riviera was radically redesigned for the 1971 model year with flowing and dramatic "boat-tail" styling. Designed under Bill Mitchell's direction, it was penned by Jerry Hirshberg, future head of design for Nissan, mating the two-piece vee-butted fastback rear window, inspired by the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray split window coupe, to the Riviera's platform.
The design was originally intended for the smaller GM A platform, and the use of the Riviera's body—expanded for 1971 by 3 in (76 mm) in wheelbase and more than 120 lb (54 kg) heavier—produced controversial looks. (Collectible Automobile ran an article about 1971–76 full-sized Buicks in which one sketch design for their 2-door coupes which was rejected resembled the 1971–73 Riviera).

Buick Riviera 1964

This generation introduced a much more visual representation of the "sweepspear", with a more faithful representation to the version that appeared on 1950s Buicks in both the side molding and beltline.
The 455 engine had a lower compression ratio to meet EPA emissions requirements, reducing power to 255 hp (190 kW), with 265 hp (198 kW) in the Gran Sport. Performance remained reasonably brisk, with a 0–60 time of 8.1 seconds for the GS, but the Riviera's sporty image was rapidly fading. One noteworthy advance was Buick's Max Trac, a traction control system that prevented wheelspin during acceleration on slippery surfaces. The 1971 Riviera also features GM's "Full-Flo" ventilation system and two large deck lid louvers are prominent on the trunk lid. (Unfortunately, under certain conditions a vacuum was created that sucked rain and exhaust back into the car and the "Full-Flo" ventilation was redesigned and the louvers were removed from trunk lid for the 1972 model year.)

Buick Riviera

Despite these features, Riviera sales for 1971 dropped to 33,810, the lowest to date. The 1972 Riviera was little changed, with the 455 engine switching to net power ratings, 225 hp (168 kW) or 250 hp (190 kW) with the Gran Sport, although the actual drop in net power was only 5 hp (3.7 kW). Sales remained moribund at 33,728. For 1973, the 250 hp (186 kW) engine became standard, with 260 hp (190 kW) with the Stage One package, which also included a limited slip differential and a chrome-plated air cleaner. The "Gran Sport" package was still available as a separate option package consisting of a ride-and-handling package that included a rear stabilizer bar, JR78-15 whitewall steel-belted radial tires, a specially tuned "radial roadability" suspension, additional sound insulation and special "Gran Sport" badging. Sluggish sales of the third generation Riviera led GM to believe that the boattail deck lid was too radical for most customers' tastes, so in 1973 it was blunted and made slightly shorter. The design change however only led to a marginal increase in sales, with 34,080 being produced for the model year.

Fourth generation (1974–1976)

Buick Riviera 1963

Although carrying over the same platform, mechanicals, and some body panels seen on the "Third Generation" Riviera, Buick replaced its distinctive 'boat tail' roofline with a more conventional-looking "Colonnade" treatment. This turned the car from a hardtop coupe into a pillared coupe, as it featured wide B pillars and fixed quarter opera windows. A landau half-vinyl roof option was available. The car did retain its forward-jutting grille, albeit in slightly modified form. Thus modified, the car looked far less distinctive than its predecessors, and even its platform mates, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado. The tamer-looking Riviera was no lighter, and its standard 455 V8 lost more power, dropping to 230 hp (172 kW) and 245 hp (183 kW) for standard and Stage One models, respectively. Max Trac was dropped from the option list after 1974 due to lack of buyer interest. The revised styling did nothing for sales, which plummeted to 20,129 in 1974.
For 1975, the Riviera received an updated front fascia, which lost its forward-jutting theme through the redesign of the fiberglass front end cap. Quad rectangular headlights were mounted horizontally. The new vertical-bar grille echoed the "stand-up" theme that many GM cars of the day incorporated. Parking lights wrapped around the fender sides. The Stage One performance package was dropped for 1975, though the Gran Sport handling package would continue to be offered. The standard engine's output dipped to 205 hp (153 kW). Sales for 1975 were 17,306. This generation introduced as a novelty what later became a federal mandate in a modified form, two high-mounted taillights above the trunk and below the rear window, which was shared on its platform twin the Toronado.
Minor changes greeted 1976 models, the most notable of which was a new crosshatch grille insert. The Gran Sport handling package was replaced by an 'S/R' package that had similar sporting pretensions. Sales rallied slightly to 20,082 for 1976.

Fifth generation (1977–1978)

Buick Riviera 1964

Buick downsized the Riviera for 1977 onto the new smaller GM B platform. While the other E-bodies were front wheel drive since 1966 (1967 for Cadillac's Eldorado), the Buick E platform used a B-body undercarriage (along with the cruciform frame of pre-1965 GMs for the 1966–70 generation). All B-bodies (including C and D platform GM RWDs) were downsized for the 1977 model year which prompted the short-lived 1977/78 generation.
It was, in most respects, a Buick LeSabre coupe with unique styling (with quarter windows mimicking the 1975–78 Cadillac Eldorado). Unlike its LeSabre counterpart, the front fascia is vertical as opposed to slanted. It was reduced to a wheelbase of 115.9 in (2,940 mm), down 6.1 in (150 mm), and an overall length of 218.2 in (5,540 mm), down 4.8 in (120 mm). Weight dropped some 660 pounds (300 kg). The 455 was gone, replaced by a 350 cu in (5.7 L) Buick V8 engine with 155 hp (116 kW) or Oldsmobile-built 403 cu in (6.60 L) with 185 hp (138 kW). California models had a 170 hp (127 kW) Oldsmobile 350.

Buick Riviera 1963

Sales were up modestly to 26,138 for 1977 and then fell to 20,535 for 1978, although this was strictly a stopgap model until the all-new E-body cars would be ready for 1979. To date, 1977 and 1978 Rivieras are considered a rare find since it was only produced for two model years on the downsized GM B platform before the 1979 redesign on the FWD E-platform (there are two reasons why the B-platform was used—the existing 1976 B-platform was phased out for the downsized variant where RWD E-platform vehicles were produced on the B-chassis. Buick could have continued production although the frame stamping facilities and undercarriage/chassis components were being retooled in late 1976 for downsized B-platform production where the FWD E-platform did not downsize since they were produced on a separate assembly line.

Buick Riviera 1963

Also, with Buick dropping its 455 V8 after 1976, continuing the '77–78 Riviera on the old E-body platform would have forced Buick to either downsize its engine compartment to their 350 V8, which was too small and underpowered for a 5,000-pound car—or "import" larger engines from other GM divisions including 400s from Chevrolet and Pontiac, Oldsmobile's 403 or Cadillac's 425—each of which would have limited sales and production as each division gave first priority to its own vehicles before selling engines to other divisions.

75th Anniversary Package

Buick Riviera Stage 1 GS Coupe 1973

For 1978, a special "LXXV" edition was released to commemorate Buick's 75th anniversary on the market. Production total was 2,889 and included special silver & black paint with gray leather seats with black trim, brushed chrome trim, deep pile carpeting and special LXXV name plates.

Sixth generation (1979–1985)

1979 saw the debut of the first front wheel drive Riviera. Built on on a trimmer, 114 in (2,900 mm) wheelbase, it once again shared its mechanical design and platform with the Cadillac Eldorado and Oldsmobile Toronado. The Olds 403 and Buick 350 were dropped, but the Olds 350 remained, as did a new turbocharged Buick V6 of 231 cu in (3.8 L) displacement with 185 hp (138 kW). The Riviera became Motor Trend's Car of the Year. Sales more than doubled, to 52,181 for 1979 and 48,621 for the very similar 1980 models.

Buick Riviera 1964

1981 saw the Turbo renamed T-Type and the demise of the 350 engine in favor of the Oldsmobile-built 307 cu in (5.0 L) with 140 hp (104 kW) (phased in during the 1980 MY). The standard engine was now Buick's 125 hp (93 kW) 252 cu in (4.1 L) V6, and a new option was an Oldsmobile diesel engine with a mere 105 hp (78 kW). offered through 1985. 1982 also saw the first-ever Riviera convertible, although relatively few were built, owing to very high prices-US$23,944. Riviera convertible was available in only two color choices-white or red firemist with the only interior color of red leather. A turbocharged Riviera convertible was chosen to be the pace car at the 1983 Indianapolis 500, although most convertible Rivieras had the V8 engine, which saw an increase in rated SAE net horse power to 150 for both convertibles and coupes fitted with it from 1982 through the 1985 model year.

Buick Riviera 

Overall sales made the 1980s Riviera a great success, reaching 65,305 for the 1985 model year.

Seventh generation (1986–1993)

The E-body coupes were converted to unibody construction and further downsized for 1986, to a 108 in (2,700 mm) wheelbase shared with the Buick Regal. The V6 was now the only engine, rated initially at 142 hp (106 kW) SAE and 200 lb·ft (270 N·m) of torque. It used the Turbo-Hydramatic 440-T4 automatic with a 2.84:1 final drive ratio. This generation was noted for advanced electronic instrumentation displayed on a dash-mounted 9-inch (230 mm) CRT. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard. With a choice of three suspension packages available, up to the performance oriented FE3 setting, handling was notably improved. The Riviera placed fourth for Motor Trend's 1986 Car of the Year contest.

Buick Riviera 1963

Fuel economy was notably improved for the 1986 Riviera, but the investment in the downsized, transverse engine front wheel drive platform resulted in a substantial price increase, to $19,831 to the base model and $21,577 for the new T-Type. Downsizing also resulted in a dimensional similarity to smaller, less expensive offerings from GM, with shared styling cues reinforcing the unfortunate resemblance.
The smaller dimensions, generic styling, and lack of a V8 led to sales plummeting to 22,138 for 1986, only 15,223 for 1987, and a dismal 8,625 for 1988. A restyle for 1989 that added 11 inches (280 mm) to the overall length (on an unchanged wheelbase) helped, but only incrementally, boosting sales to 21,189 for 1989, but dropping to a low of 4,555 for 1993, the shortened final year of that model. The last 1993 Riviera rolled off the Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly plant line on December 10, 1992
Sales in the personal luxury coupe segment were in decline from 1986 onward, although it is unclear whether the general market trend was initiated by the poor public reception of GM's newly downsized offerings or an inevitable shift in the tastes of the buying public.

Eighth generation (1995–1999)

Buick Riviera 1963

After a hiatus in 1994, the Riviera returned in 1995 with radical styling that departed from the previous generations' traditional image. A 205 hp (153 kW) naturally aspirated 3800 V6 was standard, with a supercharged version rated at 225 hp (168 kW) and 275 lb·ft (373 N·m) available as an option. Rivieras were now built in Lake Orion, Michigan, riding the same Cadillac-derived G platform as the 4-door Oldsmobile Aurora. The very first of 41,422 Rivieras made in 1995 rolled off the assembly line on May 23, 1994.
In 1996, supercharged versions saw an increase in power to 240 hp (179 kW) and 280 lb·ft (380 N·m), as well as the 4T60E-HD transmission. 18,036 Rivieras were manufactured in 1996.

Buick Riviera

1997 saw suspension revisions, removing excess weight. An upgraded 4T65E-HD transmission featuring a larger 258 mm (10.2 in) torque converter and heavy-duty gearbox was added. 18,827 were made in 1997.
For 1998, the 240 hp (180 kW) supercharged V6 became standard. GM's OnStar service was added as an option, along with minor interior design changes. 10,953 units were produced for 1998.
With sales of all coupes declining in the North American market, GM decided to discontinue the Riviera. 1999 was the car's last model year with production of 1,956 cars ceasing on November 25, 1998. The final 200 cars had special silver paint and trim, and were denoted "Silver Arrow" models, a designation which hearkened back to several Silver Arrow show cars that had been built off Riviera bodies by Bill Mitchell.

Buick Riviera 1963

Eighth-generation Rivieras received the most powerful V-6 Buick engine since the Grand Nationals of the 1980s. The supercharged OHV V6 gave impressive torque and acceleration, pushing the car from 0 to 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) in under 7 seconds, and turning the 1⁄4 mile in 15.5 seconds. These numbers, combined with the Riviera's large size and unassuming looks, qualified it as a sleeper, a car with not-so-obvious yet potent performance potential. Additionally, supercharged Rivieras achieved a respectable fuel efficiency figure of 18/27 (city/highway mpg).