Top 10 Most Iconic Buick Rivieras Ever
Since its debut in the 1960s, the Buick Riviera didn’t merely follow automotive fashion; it defined it. With graceful curves, striking front fascias, and quintessential American flair, this personal luxury coupe forged a distinct legacy.
Spanning decades, it transitioned from jet-age elegance to ’70s power and ’90s innovation. Here are 10 of the most memorable Buick Rivieras, each a vibrant reflection of American automotive artistry.
1. 1963 Riviera (First Generation Debut)
The original Riviera stunned the auto world when it arrived in 1963, boasting razor-sharp lines and restrained elegance that stood out from Detroit’s usual chrome-heavy designs. Styled by Bill Mitchell, it was widely praised for its European-inspired proportions and pillarless hardtop design.
Powered by a 325-hp 401-cubic-inch “Nailhead” V8, it had the muscle to back up the looks. It’s considered one of GM’s most beautiful cars ever—and with good reason.
2. 1965 Riviera Gran Sport
The 1965 Riviera elevated its exquisite design with concealed clamshell headlights, a signature feature. The Gran Sport variant boasted a dual-quad 425-cid V8, generating 360 hp for thrilling speed.
Blending opulence, power, and breathtaking aesthetics, it remains a high point in Riviera history.
3. 1966 Riviera (Second Generation Debut)
With a full redesign, the ’66 Riviera adopted more curves and a fastback roofline, giving it a sleeker, more fluid profile. While it lost the hidden headlights, it gained a wider, more muscular stance.
Buick also introduced better handling dynamics and a cleaner interior layout. This generation set the stage for more expressive styling in years to come.
4. 1971 Riviera “Boattail”
The 1971–73 “boattail” Riviera, inspired by Auburn speedsters and designed under Bill Mitchell, featured a striking tapered rear window and sculpted flanks.
Polarizing yet unforgettable, its audacious style has earned a devoted following, marking it as one of the boldest production cars ever.
5. 1973 Riviera GS Stage 1
The 1973 GS Stage 1, the last of the “boattail” era, housed a 455-cid V8 with 270 net hp and immense torque. Despite its heft, it delivered impressive performance.
Subtle refinements, like an updated front bumper for federal standards, closed the Riviera’s most daring chapter in style.
6. 1985 Riviera T-Type Turbo
Buick embraced performance again with the T-Type, powered by a 3.8L turbocharged V6 borrowed from the Grand National family. It had digital gauges, touch controls, and futuristic looks that made it feel ahead of its time.
It wasn’t quite a muscle car, but it added an edge to the Riviera’s cushy persona. A rare gem for collectors today.
7. 1985 Riviera Convertible
Reviving the convertible in an era when droptops were rare, the 1985 Riviera offered a power top, plush leather, and a smooth V6. Built in limited numbers, this elegant cruiser embodied ’80s luxury.
Its scarcity makes it a cherished piece of American automotive history.
8. 1995 Riviera (Eighth Generation Debut)
The 1995 Riviera debuted with flowing lines and an optional supercharged 3.8L V6, producing 240 hp. Its front-wheel-drive platform and refined interior blended modern luxury with bold aesthetics.
Praised for its forward-thinking design, it captured the essence of ’90s American coupes.
9. 1999 Riviera Silver Arrow Edition
The Silver Arrow, a 1999 limited-edition farewell, featured unique badging, trim, and numbered plaques, with only 200 produced.
This collectible model honored the Riviera’s legacy with understated elegance, leaving fans longing for a revival of the storied nameplate.
10. 2007 Riviera Concept (Shanghai Auto Show)
Though it never reached production, the 2007 Riviera concept was a jaw-dropping fusion of past and future. Designed with global appeal in mind, it featured sweeping curves, gullwing doors, and hybrid tech.
While just a design exercise, it reminded fans of the Riviera’s long legacy of style-forward thinking. And it reignited hope for a modern revival.