Limited Production: 1990 Buick Reatta Convertible

The Reatta was a “halo” car for Buick in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Built at the same time as the Cadillac Allante, it was a 2-seat grand touring machine with a transverse V6 engine borrowed from the existing Buick parts bin. It was quite luxurious and well-appointed and saw 21,750 copies built from 1988 to 1991. A coupe came first, followed later by a convertible like the seller’s car. It’s one of just 2,132 assembled in the 1990 model year.

Reatta production was based on a shorter version of GM’s E-platform that was used with the then-current Riviera. It was the company’s first two-seat automobile and was built on a specialized assembly line in Lansing, Michigan. Painting of the cars was outsourced to PPG Industries rather than Buick people. Under the hood was Buick’s 3.8-liter V6 that produced 165 to 170 depending on the year. The cars had ABS brakes, a new feature, and an independent suspension for better handling.

Sales were disappointing as Buick had hoped to sell 20,000 units a year; instead, that was about the number managed across four years. This drop-top has 80,000 miles on the odometer and is said to be in good condition and runs well. But other details provided by the seller are sparse, including photos. If you’re looking for an interesting and rare car, this one can be found in Johnstown, New York, and is available here on craigslist for $6,100. Thanks, again, Mitchell G., for the tip!