Buick Riviera

The Buick Riviera is a personal luxury car that was

marketed by Buick from 1963 to 1999, with the exception Buick Riviera
of the 1994 model year.

As General Motors' first entry into the personal luxury car

market segment, the Riviera was highly praised by
automotive journalists upon its high-profile debut. It was a
ground-up design on a new GM E platform debuting for
the 1963 model year and was also Buick's first unique
Riviera model.

Unlike its subsequent GM E platform stablemates, the

Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado, the Riviera
was initially a front engine/rear-wheel drive platform, 1963 Buick Riviera
switching to front-wheel drive starting with the 1979
model year. Overview
Manufacturer Buick (General Motors)
While the early models stayed close to their original form,
Model years 1963–1993
eight subsequent generations varied substantially in size
and styling. A total of 1,127,261 Rivieras were produced. 1995–1999
Body and chassis
The Riviera name was resurrected for two concept cars
Class Personal luxury car
that were displayed at auto shows in 2007 and in 2013.
Chronology
Predecessor Buick Super
Contents
Origins
The Riviera name
Debut as a personal luxury car
First generation (1963–1965)
Second generation (1966–1970)
Third generation (1971–1973)
Fourth generation (1974–1976)
Fifth generation (1977–1978)
75th Anniversary Package
Sixth generation (1979–1985)
Seventh generation (1986–1993)
Eighth generation (1995–1999)
Engines
Concept cars
2007 concept
 2013 concept
References
External links

Origins

The Riviera name

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 popular
over the next 30 years. Buick added a two-door Riviera hardtop to 1949 Buick Roadmaster Riviera (one
the Super the following year, the Special in 1951 and the Century of the first hardtops)
upon its return, after a 12-year absence, in 1954.

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 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
1959 Buick Electra 225 Riviera
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.

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 1962 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 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

In the late 1950s, GM lacked a personal luxury car to compete with
the highly successful Ford Thunderbird—a uniquely styled, two-
door that had dramatically increased in popularity when expanded
from a two-seater to a four-passenger car. To fill this gap, an
experimental Cadillac design, the XP-715, was created, dubbed the
"LaSalle" after a former GM luxury marque. Its angular look was
reportedly inspired by GM styling chief Bill Mitchell's visit to
London during the period, when he was struck by the sight of a
custom-bodied Rolls Royce. He later said that "knife-edged" 1963 Buick Silver Arrow concept car
styling was what he wanted for the new model, but with a lower
profile. The design itself was penned by stylist Ned Nickles.

When Cadillac passed on the venture in 1960 the project was thrown open for competition by the other
GM Divisions. Buick, desperate to revive its flagging sales, won the competition by enlisting the aid of the
McCann-Erickson advertising agency to create its presentation.[1][2] Initially referred to as the "Buick
LaSalle" and later "Buick Riviera" concept cars,[3][4][5] the finished design was adapted to a shortened
version of Buick's existing cruciform frame. It was again introduced as a concept car in 1963 called the
Buick Riviera Silver Arrow.[6]

First generation (1963–1965)

First generation

1964 Buick Riviera

Overview
Model years 1963–1965
Assembly Buick City, Flint, Michigan
Linden, New Jersey (Linden
1965 Buick Riviera GS Assembly) United States
Designer Bill Mitchell
The production Riviera was introduced on October 4,
Body and chassis
1962, as a 1963 model, its distinctive bodyshell was
unique to the marque, unusual for a GM product. The Body style 2-door hardtop
design was substantially the same as the original, less Layout FR layout
expensively hidden headlights concealed in the fender
Platform E-body
grilles.[5] The elegant ground-up styling sported the new
"Coke bottle look" introduced the year before on the Powertrain
arresting Studebaker Avanti, with a tapered midsection Engine 401 cu in (6.6 L) Nailhead
V8
 surrounded by 425 cu in (7.0 L) Nailhead
flaring fenders. V8
There was no trace
Transmission Twin Turbine automatic
of the
transmission
"Sweepspear"
used on beltlines 3-speed ST-400 automatic
of earlier Buicks Dimensions
with the Riviera Wheelbase 117.0 in (2,972 mm)
package,
Length 208.0 in (5,283 mm)[7]
1965 Buick Riviera GS interior
Width 76.3 in (1,938 mm)–76.6 in
(1,946 mm)
It rode a cruciform frame similar to the standard Buick
frame, but shorter and narrower, with a 2.0  in (51  mm) Height 53.0 in (1,346 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),[8]: 2 10 
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.

The Riviera's suspension used Buick's standard design, with double wishbones in the front and a live axle
located by trailing arms and a lateral track bar in the rear, but the roll centers were lowered 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's 325 hp (242 kW) 401 cu in (6.6 l) "Nailhead" V-8 was initially the only available engine,[8]: 2 04 
fitted with dual exhaust as standard equipment, and the turbine drive the only transmission.[8]: 2 06  Base
price was $4,333,[8]: 2 10  running upwards of $5,000 delivered with typical options. Buick announced an
optional 340 hp (254 kW) 425 cu in (7.0 l) version of the Nailhead in December 1962. Total production
was deliberately limited to 40,000 vehicles (in a year that Buick sold 440,000 units overall) to emphasize
the Riviera's exclusivity and to increase demand; only 2,601 were delivered with the delayed availability
larger engine in the 1963 model year.

With the same power as the bigger Buicks and less weight, the Riviera had improved all-around
performance: Motor Trend recorded 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
13.2 miles per US gallon (17.8 L/100 km; 15.9 mpg‑imp ). Front leg room was 40.1 inches.[9]

Inside, the Riviera featured a luxurious four-place cabin with front bucket seats and bucket-style seats in the
rear. A center console with floor shifter and storage compartment built into the instrument panel divided the
front. 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. 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.

Minimal trim and mechanical changes were made for 1964, with the most identifiable distinguishing
features being a raised stylized "R" hood emblem and "R" emblems replacing the Buick crests in the
taillight lenses. The interior is distinguished by moving the heater controls from controls under the
dashboard eyebrow to slide controls in the forward fairing of the center console. Leather was dropped as an
option, and the Dynaflow-based twin-turbine transmission was replaced by a new three-speed Super
Turbine 400. This was a GM Turbo Hydra-Matic with a variable pitch torque converter like the
Dynaflow's. It used a two-speed "D" and '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 of the stylized "R"
emblem, a trademark that would continue throughout the remainder of Riviera's 36-year production run.[10]
The engine was upgraded to the previously optional 340  hp (254  kW) 425  cu  in (7.0  l) V8. A 360  hp
(268 kW) 'Super Wildcat' version was available, with dual Carter AFB four-barrel carburetors.

In 1965 the 401  cu  in (6.6  l) V8 returned as the standard engine,

and the "Gran Sport" version made its debut, powered by the Super
Wildcat V8 and outfitted with a more aggressive 3.42 axle ratio and
stiffer, heavy-duty suspension. The Super Turbine 400 transmission
retained its variable pitch torque converter, but was fitted with a
three-speed gear selector. 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. Externally,
the headlamps, now vertically arranged, were hidden behind 1965 Buick Riviera
clamshell doors in the leading edges of each fender, as had been in
the original design. The non-functional side scoops between the
doors and rear wheel arches were removed, and the taillights moved from the body into the rear bumper.[11]
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.

Total sales for the 1963–1965 model years was a respectable 112,244. The Riviera was extremely well
received from all quarters and considered a great success, giving the Thunderbird its first real competition
as America's preeminent personal luxury car.

It has since earned Milestone status from the Milestone Car Society. Jaguar founder and designer Sir
William Lyons remarked 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 most
handsome American production car—apart from his own Studebaker Avanti, in his view the Riviera's only
real competition for 1963.[12] The first-generation Riviera is considered a styling landmark and has become
a collectible car.[13]

Second generation (1966–1970)

Second generation

1966 Buick Riviera GS

1969 model (headlights deployed)

The Riviera was redesigned for the 1966 model year.[16] It
Overview
retained its cruciform X-frame, powertrain, and brakes, but
its curvaceous new body was longer, wider, and 200 Model years 1966–1970
 pounds (91  kg) Assembly Flint, Michigan
heavier. Vent Linden, New Jersey (Linden
windows, a feature Assembly) United States
GM had
Body and chassis
introduced in the
1930s, were Body style 2-door hardtop
absent. Headlamps Layout FR layout
1968 Buick Riviera GS
remained
Platform E-body
concealed, but
now pivoted Related Cadillac Eldorado
behind the grille Oldsmobile Toronado
when not in use, Powertrain
and they were
once again Engine 425 cu in (7.0 L) Nailhead
horizontally V8
arranged. The car's 430 cu in (7.0 L) Buick V8
1969 Buick Riviera
added bulk slowed 455 cu in (7.5 L) Buick V8
acceleration with Transmission 3-speed ST-400 automatic
the unchanged 425
engine. The Gran Dimensions
Sport package Wheelbase 119.0 in (3,023 mm)[14]
remained available
Length 211.2 in (5,364 mm) (1966–
as an option. Rear
67)[15]
seat belts[17] and
215.2 in (5,466 mm) (1968–
AM/FM radio[18]
were optional. 1970)
Width 78.8 in (2,002 mm)
1970 Buick Riviera
79.3 in (2,014 mm) (1970)
Height 53.2 in (1,351 mm)–53.6 in
The new front-wheel drive Oldsmobile Toronado shared
the Riviera platform, and, a year later, the also front-wheel (1,361 mm)
drive Cadillac Eldorado; however, the Riviera itself
retained the rear-wheel drive layout.

Inside, the four-place cabin with front and rear bucket seats and center console were 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.

The most significant change for 1967 was Buick's replacement of its venerable 425 "Nailhead" with an
entirely new 430 cu in (7.0 L) V8. Its 360 horsepower (270 kW) and 475 lb⋅ft (644 N⋅m) of torque were a
performance improvement. Gasoline mileage improved slightly, but remained low. Powerful disc brakes
with Bendix four-piston calipers became optional for the front wheels but most Riviera continued to be
ordered with Buick's highly capable ribbed aluminum brake drums. 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.[19]
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. The Rivieras complied on all counts and featured the full range
of safety features.

1968 models had reshaped loop-type bumpers that surrounded both the vehicle's recessed crosshatch front
grille and tail lamps. Hidden wiper arms made their debut. Federally mandated side marker lights appeared,
as inverted trapezoids on the lower leading edges of the front fenders, and circular in the rear. The interior
was restyled and for the first time 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.
Mechanically, the transmission lost its variable pitch torque converter. A tilt steering wheel was
standard.[20] Sales set another new record in 1968, as 49,284 units were sold.

Minor styling changes took place again in 1969, with grilles gaining 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. Inside, front outboard passengers received new headrests. The ignition
switch was moved from the instrument panel to the steering column and locked the steering wheel and
selector lever when the key was removed (a security feature that became mandatory for the 1970 model
year). Chrome side trim was revised, as well. At the rear, the reverse lights moved from the rear bumper to
new three-section tail-light lenses. Sales for 1969 improved again, to 52,872.

The 1970 Riviera was restyled, incorporating design cues from Bill Mitchell's 1968 "Silver Arrow II"
concept car.[21] 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 1970 sales dropped to 37,366,
the second-generation Riviera proved more successful than the first, with 227,669 units sold over five the
years.

Third generation (1971–1973)

Third generation

1971 Buick Riviera

1972 Buick Riviera

The Riviera was radically redesigned for the 1971 model
year with flowing and dramatic "boat-tail" styling.[23] Overview
Designed under Bill Mitchell's direction, it was penned by Model years 1971–1973
Jerry Hirshberg, future head of design for Nissan, mating
Assembly Flint, Michigan
the two-piece vee-butted[8]: 7 92  fastback rear window,
Linden, New Jersey (Linden
inspired by the 1963 Corvette Sting Ray coupe, to the
Riviera's platform. Assembly) United States
 Designer Jerry Hirshberg under Bill
Mitchell
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door hardtop
Layout FR layout
Platform E-body
Related Cadillac Eldorado
1972 Buick Riviera rear
Oldsmobile Toronado
Powertrain
Engine 455 cu in (7.5 L) Buick V8
Transmission 3-speed TH-400 automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 122.0 in (3,099 mm)[22]
Length 217.4 in (5,522 mm) (1971)
218.3 in (5,545 mm) (1972)
223.4 in (5,674 mm) (1973)
1971 Buick Riviera interior
Width 79.9 in (2,029 mm)
Height 54.0 in (1,372 mm)
The design was originally intended for the smaller A-body
or its related G-body, as shown by a full scale clay model Curb weight 4,247 lb (1,926 kg)
of an A-body based boat-tail Riviera recently revealed.[24]
Given the late stage of the 1968-72 A/G platform evolution and accretive cost to add another version to it,
GM Management decreed that the next Riviera use the full sized GM B platform body—expanded for
1971 by 3 in (76 mm) in wheelbase and more than 120 lb (54 kg) heavier— which produced controversial
looks, making for a sharp departure from those of the Toronado and Eldorado. (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).

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.[25]
Large, round wheel openings were intended to convey more of a sporty air.[25] The only engine available
was Buick's own 455  ci V8 engine producing 315  hp (235  kW), with 330  hp (246  kW) with the Gran
Sport (GS) package.[26]

The 455 engine had a lower compression ratio to meet EPA emissions requirements, together with the shift
from SAE gross to SAE net ratings this reduced claimed power to 255 hp (190 kW), with 265 hp (198 kW)
in the Gran Sport. Performance remained reasonably brisk, with a 0–60 mph 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
limited-slip differential.[27] The 1971 Riviera also features GM's "Full-Flo" ventilation system and two
large deck lid louvers are prominent on the trunk lid.

Despite these features, Riviera sales for 1971 dropped to 33,810,[8]: 7 98  the lowest to date. The 1972
Riviera received a new, egg-crate grille, more substantial front bumpers to prepare for the new 5-mph
impact legislation, restyled taillight trim, and the louvers were removed from the trunk lid. The 1972
Riviera also featured a redesigned ventilation system, and the 455 engine switched to net power ratings,
225 hp (168 kW) or 250 hp (186 kW) in the Gran Sport, although the actual drop in net power was only
5 hp (4 kW). Sales remained stagnant at 33,728, a drop of 82 from the prior year.[8]: 8 76 
For 1973, the Riviera underwent a number of changes.[28] The front bumper was redesigned to be thicker
and featured bumper guards as standard in order to meet 1974 impact-bumper standards, the grille was
switched back to horizontal slats, and the front lamps were moved from the bumper and were now
integrated into the headlights, wrapping around the corners of the car. 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 taillights, meanwhile, were moved down from the sheet metal
and into the bumper, and the rear license plate location was moved from the left side of the bumper to the
center.[28] The 250  hp (186  kW) engine became standard, with 260  hp (194  kW) with the Stage One
package. This 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. The design changes
however only led to a marginal increase in sales, with 34,080 being produced for the model year.

Fourth generation (1974–1976)

Although carrying over the same platform, mechanicals, Fourth generation
and some body panels seen on the "Third Generation"
Riviera, Buick replaced its distinctive 'boat tail' roofline
with a more conventional-looking "Colonnade" treatment
which was more in line with its LeSabre and Electra
brethren than its front-wheel drive cousins. 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
Overview
retain its forward-jutting grille, albeit in slightly modified
form. Thus modified, the car looked far less distinctive Model years 1974–1976
than its predecessors, and even its platform mates, the Assembly Flint, Michigan
Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado. The tamer- Linden, New Jersey (Linden
looking Riviera was no lighter, and its standard 455 V8
Assembly) United States
lost more power, dropping to 230 hp (172 kW) and 245 hp
(183 kW) for standard and Stage One models respectively. Body and chassis
Max Trac was dropped from the option list after 1974 due Body style 2-door coupe
to a lack of buyer interest. The revised styling did not Layout FR layout
improve sales, which fell to 20,129 in 1974, although it is
impossible to determine how much this was a result of the Platform E-body
energy crisis and how much was due to the tame Related Cadillac Eldorado
appearance.[29] This generation introduced a novelty that Oldsmobile Toronado
later became federally mandated in a modified form, two
Powertrain
high-mounted taillights above the trunk and below the rear
window, which was shared on its platform twin the Engine 455 cu in (7.5 L) Buick V8
Toronado. Transmission 3-speed TH-400 automatic

For 1975, the Riviera received an updated front fascia, Dimensions

which lost its forward-jutting theme through the redesign Wheelbase 122.0 in (3,099 mm)
of the fiberglass front end cap. Quad rectangular
Length 226.4 in (5,751 mm) (1974)
headlights were mounted horizontally. The new vertical-
223.0 in (5,664 mm) (1975)
bar grille echoed the "stand-up" theme that many GM cars
of the day incorporated. Parking lights wrapped around Width 80.0 in (2,032 mm)
the fender sides. The Stage One performance package was Height 54.0 in (1,372 mm)
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.

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.[30]

Fifth generation (1977–1978)

Fifth generation

1977 Buick Riviera

Overview
Model years 1977–1978
Assembly Flint, Michigan
Linden, New Jersey (Linden
Assembly) United States
Body and chassis
1978 Buick Riviera rear Body style 2-door coupe
Layout FR layout
Buick downsized the Riviera for 1977 onto the new
Platform B-body
smaller GM B platform. While the other E-bodies were
front wheel drive since 1966 (1967 for Cadillac's Related Buick LeSabre
Eldorado), the Buick E platform used a rear-wheel-drive Buick Estate
B-body undercarriage (along with the cruciform frame of Chevrolet Caprice
pre-1965 GMs for the 1966–70 generation). All B-bodies Chevrolet Impala
(including C and D platform GM RWDs) were downsized Oldsmobile 88
for the 1977 model year which prompted the short-lived Oldsmobile Custom Cruiser
1977/78 generation.
Pontiac
It was, in most respects, a Buick LeSabre coupe with Bonneville/Parisienne
unique styling (with quarter windows mimicking the Pontiac Catalina/Laurentian
1975–78 Cadillac Eldorado). Unlike its LeSabre Powertrain
counterpart, the front fascia is vertical as opposed to
Engine 350 cu in (5.7 L) Buick V8
slanted. It was reduced to a wheelbase of 115.9  in
403 cu in (6.6 L)
(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 Oldsmobile V8
was reduced by appoximately 660 pounds (300  kg). The Transmission 3-speed TH-400 automatic
455 engine was replaced by a 350 cu in (5.7 L) Buick V8 Dimensions
engine with 155  hp (116  kW) or an Oldsmobile-built
403  cu  in (6.60  L) with 185  hp (138  kW). California Wheelbase 115.9 in (2,944 mm)
models had a 170 hp (127 kW) Oldsmobile 350.[31] Length 218.2 in (5,542 mm)
Sales were up modestly to 26,138 for 1977 and then fell to
20,535 for 1978,[30] although this was a stopgap model until the all-new E-body cars would be ready for
1979. The 1977 and 1978 Rivieras were produced on the downsized GM B platform before the 1979
redesign on the FWD E-platform.

75th Anniversary Package

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, four-wheel disc brakes, brushed chrome trim, deep pile carpeting, and special LXXV name
plates.

The interior of a 1978 Buick Riviera

LXXV

Sixth generation (1979–1985)

Sixth generation

Buick Riviera coupe

1984 Buick Riviera Coupe

The 1979 model year was the debut of the first front wheel
Overview
drive Riviera, which was also the first front-drive
production model in Buick history. Built on a 114  in Model years 1979–1985
(2,900 mm) wheelbase, it once again shared its mechanical Assembly Linden Assembly, Linden,
design and platform with the Cadillac Eldorado and New Jersey United States
Oldsmobile Toronado. The Olds 403 and Buick 350 were
dropped, but the Olds 350 remained, as did a new Body and chassis
turbocharged Buick V6 of 231 cu in (3.8 L) displacement Body style 2-door convertible
with 185 hp (138 kW). The Riviera became Motor Trend's 2-door coupe
Car of the Year. Sales more than doubled, to 52,181 for
Layout Longitudinal front-engine,
1979 and 48,621 for the similar 1980 models.[31]
 1981 saw the front-wheel drive
Turbo renamed T- Platform E-body
Type and the
demise of the 350 Related Cadillac Eldorado
engine in favor of Oldsmobile Toronado
the Oldsmobile- Powertrain
built 307  cu  in
Engine 231 cu in (3.8 L) Buick V6
(5.0  L) with
140  hp (104  kW) 252 cu in (4.1 L) Buick V6
The 1983 Buick Riviera XX special
(phased in during 307 cu in (5.0 L)
edition
the 1980 MY). Oldsmobile V8
The standard 350 cu in (5.7 L)
engine was now Oldsmobile V8
Buick's 125  hp 350 cu in (5.7 L)
(93 kW) 252 cu in Oldsmobile diesel V8
(4.1  L) V6, and a
Transmission 3-speed TH-325 automatic
new option was an
Oldsmobile diesel 4-speed THM325-4L
Rear view of 1984 Riviera convertible
engine with a mere automatic
105  hp (78  kW) Dimensions
offered through 1985. 1982 also saw the first-ever Riviera
Wheelbase 114.0 in (2,896 mm)[32]
convertible, although relatively few were built, owing to a
high price - US$23,944. The Riviera convertible was Length 206.0 in (5,232 mm)
available in only two color choices-white or red firemist Width 72.8 in (1,849 mm)[32]
with the only interior color of red leather. A twin-
turbocharged Riviera convertible was chosen to be the pace car at the 1983 Indianapolis 500, tuned to
produce 410 hp (306 kW).[33] Most convertible Rivieras had the V8 engine, which saw an increase in rated
SAE net HP to 150 for both convertibles and coupes fitted with it from 1982 through the 1985 model year.

In 1983 a special edition of 500 "Riviera XX" were offered, celebrating twenty years since the introduction
of the first Riviera (502 were built in the end). These have a special two-tone exterior paint, real wire
wheels, a leather and walnut interior as well as 24-karat gold plated "Riviera XX" badging.[33] The Riviera
XX also received a special grille, which then became part of the 1984 model year facelift model.[33]
Overall sales made the 1980s Riviera a great success, reaching 65,305 for the 1985 model year.[30]

Seventh generation (1986–1993)

The E-body coupes were converted to unibody Seventh generation
construction and further downsized for 1986 to a 108  in
(2,700 mm) wheelbase. 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 featured an advanced electronic

instrumentation display on a dash-mounted 9-inch Overview
(230 mm) CRT. The CRT controlled the vehicle's climate Model years 1986–1993
control system and stereo, and also supplied advanced
instrumentation such as a trip computer and maintenance Assembly Detroit/Hamtramck
reminder feature. Four-wheel disc brakes were standard. Assembly, Michigan, United
With a choice of three suspension packages available, up States
 to the Body and chassis
performance- Body style 2-door coupe
oriented FE3
setting, handling Layout Transverse front-engine,
was notably front-wheel drive
improved. The Platform E-body
Riviera placed
Related Cadillac Eldorado
fourth for Motor
Oldsmobile Toronado
Trend's 1986 Car
of the Year Buick Reatta
contest. This Powertrain
generation saw the
Engine 1986: 3.8L 140 hp (100 kW)
installation of
V6
Dynaride, which
1987: 3.8L 150 hp (110 kW)
was an air
compressor that V6
Buick Graphic Control
would pressurize 1988–1990: 3.8L 165 hp
the rear Chapman (123 kW) V6
Struts to maintain a level overall ride height. A badge was 1991–93: 3.8L 170 hp
installed on the dashboard to the left of the steering (130 kW) V6
column on all vehicles equipped. It was not available on
Transmission 4-speed THM440-T4
vehicles equipped with Gran Touring Suspension.
automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 108.0 in (2,743 mm)
Length 1986–88: 187.8 in
(4,770 mm)
1989-93 198.3 in
(5,037 mm)
1989–1993 Buick Riviera Width 1986–88: 71.7 in
(1,821 mm)
1989–93: 73.1 in
Fuel economy was also notably improved for the 1986
Riviera but the investment in the downsized, transverse (1,857 mm)
engine front wheel drive platform resulted in a substantial Height 1986–88: 53.5 in
price increase to $19,831 for the base model and $21,577 (1,359 mm)
for the T-Type. The smaller exterior dimensions and lack 1989–1990: 53.6 in
of a V8 led to sales plummeting to 22,138 for 1986, (1,361 mm)
15,223 for 1987, and only 8,625 for 1988. 1988 also saw
1991–93: 52.9 in
the introduction of Buick's new Reatta coupe, a two-seat
(1,344 mm)
personal luxury car.
Curb weight 3,309 lb (1,501 kg)
The Riviera was restyled for 1989, adding 11 inches
(280  mm) to the overall length (on an unchanged wheelbase). Sales improved to 21,189 for 1989, but
dropped to a low of 4,555 for 1993, the abbreviated final model year of this generation.[30] The last 1993
Riviera rolled off the Detroit/Hamtramck Assembly plant line on December 10, 1992.

Eighth generation (1995–1999)

Eighth generation
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 Orion Township,
Michigan, riding the same Cadillac-derived G platform as
the 4-door Oldsmobile Aurora. The first of 41,422 Overview
Rivieras made in 1995 rolled off the assembly line on May
Production May 23, 1994 – November
23, 1994.
25, 1998
In 1996, supercharged versions saw an increase in power Model years 1995–1999
to 240  hp (179  kW) and 280  lb·ft (380 N·m), as well as
Assembly Orion Township, Michigan,
the 4T60E-HD transmission. 18,036 Rivieras were
manufactured in 1996. U.S.
Designer William L. Porter
1997 saw suspension revisions, removing excess weight.
Body and chassis
An upgraded 4T65E-HD transmission featuring a larger
258  mm (10.2  in) torque converter and heavy-duty Body style 2-door coupe
gearbox were added. 18,827 were made in 1997. Layout Transverse front-engine,
front-wheel drive
For 1998, the 240 hp (180 kW) supercharged V6 became
standard. GM's OnStar service was added as an option, Platform G-body
along with minor interior design changes and features Related Oldsmobile Aurora
including passenger heated seats. A total 10,953 units Cadillac Seville
were produced for 1998.
Buick Park Avenue
With sales of all coupes declining in the North American Powertrain
market, GM decided to discontinue the Riviera. 1999 was Engine 3.8L 205 hp (153 kW) L36
the car's last model year with production of 1,956 cars Buick V6
ceasing on November 25, 1998. The final 200 cars had
3.8L 225 hp (168 kW) SC
special silver paint and trim, and were denoted "Silver
L67 Buick V6
Arrow"[34] models, a designation which hearkened back
to several Silver Arrow show cars that had been built off 3.8L 240 hp (180 kW) SC
Riviera bodies by Bill Mitchell. L67 Buick V6
Transmission 4-sp auto 4T60E (1995–96
Eighth-generation Rivieras received the most powerful V6 N/A)
Buick engine since the Grand Nationals of the 1980s. The
4-sp auto 4T60E-HD (1996
supercharged OHV V6 provided high torque and
Supercharged)
acceleration allowing 0 to 60 miles per hour (97 km/h) in
under 7 seconds, and turning the 1 ⁄4 mile in 15.5 seconds. 4-sp auto 4T65E-HD
Supercharged Rivieras achieved a fuel efficiency figure of (1997–99)
18/27 (city/highway mpg). Dimensions
Wheelbase 113.8 in (2,891 mm)
Engines Length 207.0 in (5,258 mm)
Width 75.0 in (1,905 mm)
Height 55.2 in (1,402 mm)
Curb weight 3,788 lb (1,718 kg)
 Model Year Engine Power Torque
3.8 L L67 3800 Series I 225 hp (168 kW) @ 275 lb⋅ft (373 N⋅m) @
Riviera 1995
Supercharged V6 5000 rpm 3200 rpm
1995– 205 hp (153 kW) @ 230 lb⋅ft (312 N⋅m) @
Riviera 3.8 L L36 3800 Series II V6
1997 5200 rpm 4000 rpm
1996– 3.8 L L67 3800 Series II 240 hp (179 kW) @ 280 lb⋅ft (380 N⋅m) @
Riviera
1999 Supercharged V6 5200 rpm 3600 rpm

Concept cars

2007 concept

At the 2007 Shanghai Motor Show, Buick debuted a 2007 Riviera Concept
concept coupe named Riviera, based on the GM Epsilon II
platform.[35][36] The concept was later shown at the 2008
North American International Auto Show.

It was designed by the Pan Asia Technical Automotive

Center (PATAC). The design was inspired by classic
Buicks, ancient Chinese artifacts, and modern electronic
icons. It includes "icy green" backlighting, Shell Blue
body, gull-wing doors, a 2+2 seating configuration, and
21-inch 10-spoke forged aluminum wheels.
Overview
Designer James C. Shyr
Body and chassis
Body style 2-door 4-seater coupe
Doors gullwing
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,870 mm (113.0 in)
Length 4,710 mm (185.4 in)
Width 1,940 mm (76.4 in)
Height 1,415 mm (55.7 in)

2013 concept

Another concept Riviera was shown at the 2013 Shanghai 2013 Riviera Concept
Motor Show, again developed by the Pan Asia Technical
Automotive Center PATAC. It has gull-wing doors and a
plug-in electric driveline as well as four wheel steering,
electromagnetically controlled suspension with air springs,
built in 4G LTE connection, transparent A pillar and
wireless charging.[37][38]
 Body and chassis
Body style 2-door 4-seater coupe
Doors gullwing
Powertrain
Electric motor 4x Motors per 1 wheel
Hybrid drivetrain Dual-mode W-PHEV

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Works cited

Gunnell, John, ed.: Standard Catalog of American Cars: 1946–1975, 4th ed., Iola,
Wisconsin: Krause Publications, ISBN 978-0873494618
Flammang, James M., ed.: Standard Catalog of American Cars: 1976–1999, 3rd ed., Iola,
Wisconsin: Krause Publications, ISBN 978-0873417556

External links
Riviera Owners Association (http://www.rivowners.org)
Riviera Performance (http://www.rivperformance.editboard.com) — discussion board
1971–1973 Buick Riviera - Boattail (http://www.buick-riviera.com) — pictures and
information

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