Project builds have a nasty habit of consuming a lot of money, but this 1965 Buick Riviera is worth a close look. Don’t let the vast expanses of surface corrosion deter you, because it is a rock-solid classic with only one small area of penetrating rust. Adding to its appeal, the motivated seller has lowered the price. I must credit Barn Finder Moparman for spotting what I consider one of the most beautiful 1960s classics listed here on Facebook Marketplace in an undisclosed Californian location. Originally priced at $6,500, you could take the Riviera home for $4,900.
It is strange to consider that the First Generation Riviera almost didn’t wear Buick badges. Designed by Bill Mitchell, it was originally envisaged as a Cadillac model, but when that marque chose not to proceed, Buick eagerly nabbed the prototype to develop its own entry into the growing Personal Luxury Car market segment. I have always struggled to pick a favorite 1960s classic, but the Riviera’s drop-dead gorgeous styling makes it a strong contender. This is a case where we shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. A previous owner stripped away much of the car’s original Astro Blue paint, exposing acres of bare metal. It has since been left exposed to the elements, helping to explain the heavy surface corrosion. However, things aren’t as bad as they seem, because the car has spent its life in California. Therefore, while there is corrosion, the only penetrating rust is in one small area below the back window. Typically prone areas like the floors, rockers, and lower rear quarter panels are rock-solid. The build still requires many hours of sanding, but only minor grinding and welding. The tinted glass looks pretty good, but some trim pieces require restoration or replacement.
Lifting the hood reveals this Riviera’s 401ci “Nailhead” V8, teamed with a three-speed automatic transmission, power steering, and power brakes. Buick quoted power and torque figures of 325hp and 445 ft/lbs for the Nailhead, giving it a slight performance edge over the class-leading Ford Thunderbird. The company offered more potent optional engines, extending the margin further. The previous owner told the seller this classic ran when parked, but the images suggest that was many years ago. However, the motor turns freely, making a mechanical revival possible if a thorough inspection reveals no major problems. That said, budgeting for a complete mechanical refresh would probably be wise.
The first owner equipped this Riviera’s interior with some desirable factory options, including air conditioning, power windows, a tilt wheel, and a pushbutton radio. Those are the highlights, because it now looks pretty tired. The buyer faces the effort and expense of a complete retrim, because the Blue vinyl and dashpad appear beyond saving, and the carpet is gone. Still, no major items appear missing, providing a solid foundation for an interior restoration. Once complete, life aboard this Buick would feel pretty special.
This 1965 Buick Riviera is an intriguing project candidate because it has avoided the rust issues that often plague these classics. The buyer still faces a mountain of preparation work before they wield their spray gun, but at least there won’t be much cutting or welding. However, another tantalizing option is available. The seller also has three more ’65 Rivieras needing a new home, including a pair of GS models. If this one doesn’t tick the boxes, maybe one of them will. One is cheaper than our featured car but has more rust, while the others are more expensive but feature rebuilt engines. If this Riviera isn’t for you, would you consider contacting the seller to pursue one of the others? It is nice to have a choice, isn’t it?
Thanks Adam. I agree, these Rivieras were beautifully-styled cars. I don’t know the viability of restoring this one (from the inventory of the “Riviera-hoarder”), but the results might be worth the effort. Back to the stock blue/blue would be gorgeous.
$4900.00, $4900.00! Here’s a man hoping that there is indeed a sucker born every minute!
Right? The greed from these people who think they have something when they have nothing is incredible. I remember this car from the 1989 ‘Roadhouse’ movie. Patrick Swayze’s character purposely buys( a much better version than this) from a dealer, at the time I think for <1000k because he knows it will take abuse from the villains in the movie who will vandalize it repeatedly.
Nothing but a parts car, very few probably.