In terms of consistently high sales numbers, the 1979-85 generation of Buick Riviera was arguably the most popular, as buyers swooned over its crisp styling that was vaguely reminiscent of the original 1963 classic. Some will also argue that of this generation, the ones to have are the 1979-80 models, because they came standard with Oldsmobile’s excellent 350 small-block attached to the Riviera’s first front-wheel-drive transaxle. Therefore, if you like the first of the front-drive Rivs, this one has to be on your radar as a two-owner, 38,881-mile survivor. Barn Finder T.J. spotted it here on eBay in Buffalo, New York, with an asking price of $15,775 or best offer.
One of the many reasons that buyers flocked to this Riviera (and its Toronado and Eldorado platform-mates) was its lavish interior. I’ve said it a hundred times, but modern buyers are missing out on the comfort and durability that is velour, and we’re also missing out on the array of colorful interior options that were offered in the 1970s and early 1980s. The Riviera’s then-new flat floor makes for a spacious front cabin, and the big, flat instrument panel gives everything an airy and open look. You may or may not like the simulated wood trim, but that was a part of the experience.
The seller represents the engine as a 307, but more likely it’s the 350 (the 307 was standard from 1981 to 1985). The Riviera was well-equipped straight from the factory, with standard air conditioning, power brakes, power steering, and even power windows. The seller doesn’t say too much about the overall mechanical condition of the car aside from the fact that it “needs absolutely nothing” and “runs beautiful.” The engine compartment could probably use some detailing, as time and perhaps the damp storage that’s hard to avoid in the northern states has given the air cleaner and power brakes booster a little surface rust.
Still, there were few luxury cars that looked better in 1980 than this Medium Blue Riviera, which is uncommon in that it is missing the fashionable vinyl roof: Score one for those who rightfully get nervous any time they see those rust bubbles popping out beneath that thick vinyl covering. Of course, you’ll also get the snazzy wire-wheel covers that were so popular back then; in some ways, it’s like going back to 1980. If you, like many, find yourself drawn to these semi-formal, semi-sporty Rivieras, this one might be just right. What do you think is a fair offer?
When I saw this on Fast Finds last night I was hoping it would get written up. Thank you Aaron!!! My ’77 Delta 88 was this same color and I can tell you it has a tendency to fade and or peel quickly. This one looks phenomenal. The fact that the dealer emblem is still on the trunk is telling me the paints original. What caught my eye was the lack of a vinyl top as well. The Riviera looks great with or without it, but in this day and age, as you said, not having hidden rust bubbles is a huge plus. Another thing I noticed too, not just this one, but others is that Buick must have been using left over steering wheels from the ’77 and ’78 Cadillacs. ( look closely, you’ll see it) I’ve seen a few other Buicks with the same wheel as well. And I totally agree with Aaron, and early Riv with an Olds 350 is definitely preffered over the Olds 307. This one is a creampuff!!! Hope someone gets it and enjoys it this spring and summer. Thanks again Aaron. And also T.J. for finding this gem. You really found a good one here!!!
My pleasure!
This is a sharp looking car, detailing the engine bay would have been a smart move, it makes a difference. Asking $15,775 makes me thinks the seller wants to get $15K and he probably shouldn’t have to accept much less based on what I could find on the internet for these models.