
The presentation of this 1990 Buick Riviera is unsurprising. It has been garage-kept throughout its life, protecting it from the worst that Mother Nature could potentially throw at it. The odometer reading of 79,000 is below average, and it is loaded with the luxury appointments buyers rightfully expected from the badge. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Riviera listed here on Craigslist in Puyallup, Washington. The seller set their price for this striking survivor at $10,500.

Buick’s Seventh Generation Riviera hit showroom floors for the 1986 model year, with the company following the prevailing industry trend of downsizing its latest offerings. The aim was to produce cars with a lower curb weight, improving fuel economy and extracting performance from a luxury car that was now V6-only territory. This Riviera left the factory in 1990, ordered by its first owner in Medium Garnet Red and Silver. The 1990 model year would prove the most successful for this generation of Riviera, with 22,526 buyers handing over the cash to take one home. This car’s presentation is impressive, with no major cosmetic issues. The panels are straight, and its garage-kept history means it would be fair to expect this classic to be rust-free. The glass is clear, and the trim is excellent. The wire wheel covers and narrow whitewalls further emphasize its luxury credentials.

When it comes to the subject of power assistance, it’s all there inside this Riviera. It controls the windows, locks, mirrors, and the driver’s seat adjustment. Throw in climate-control air conditioning, cruise control, a tilt wheel, and a Delco Bose stereo with a cassette and CD player, and life aboard this Buick would be extremely comfortable. The Gray leather-upholstered surfaces are spotless, with no significant wear or other issues. The carpet looks remarkably clean for such a pale shade, while the wheel and dash are in good condition. There are no aftermarket additions, and no evidence of functional shortcomings.

This generation of Riviera was the first where buyers couldn’t select a V8 to power their new purchase. Buick quoted power and torque figures of 165hp and 210 ft/lbs for the 3.8-liter V6, which feeds to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Power assistance for the steering and brakes was standard, ensuring that the Riviera was equally at home on the open road, coping with the cut-and-thrust of city traffic, or weaving its way through a shopping mall car park. The seller doesn’t mention verifying evidence for their mileage claim, though it may be available via Service Records, since the vehicle has been meticulously maintained. Potential buyers can consider this Riviera a turnkey proposition.

It is strange to consider that cars from the 1990s have reached classic status, but the fact is that this 1990 Buick Riviera now has thirty-six years of active service under its belt. Its overall condition tells the story of a life well lived, cherished, and protected by its owners. The seller’s price sits at the top end of the market, but it is worth asking yourself when you last spied a 1990 Riviera that presented so beautifully. It has only been on the market for a short time, and I suspect that it might find a new home fairly quickly.


The license plate, the cute little exhaust, (which I’d go back to stock)… tells a story this was probably a very well cared for and meaningful car.