Luxury Convertibles are not a new phenomenon, with manufacturers like Cadillac having produced them for decades. However, Buick joined the party in 1990 when it launched the Convertible version of its Reatta. It didn’t prove to be a sales success, with volumes far below those envisaged by the company. This first-year example is a genuine survivor that is in good condition for its age. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the Reatta listed here on Craigslist in Delta, British Columbia, Canada. It could be yours for $9,500.
Buick launched the Reatta in 1988, with the Convertible variant following in 1990. The badge represented an exercise is excellent, with the company pursuing a complex production process in a quest for high build quality. Naturally, that approach resulted in a high sticker price, a factor that probably impacted sales. This first-year Convertible is a survivor that was ordered by its first owner in Maui Blue Metallic. The seller states that it is 1-of-121 examples produced in this shade with a Blue interior, and the information I have seems to support that figure. It presents nicely, with the paint holding a warm shine with no evidence of patchiness or other problems. The panels are straight, and there is nothing suggesting that there might be hidden rust problems that would mar the ownership experience. The top is in as-new condition, and the 15″ alloy wheels are free from stains and other physical damage.
Buick dug deep into its toybox to equip the Reatta’s interior with everything a buyer might expect from a luxury car. This included climate-control air conditioning, leather trim, power operation for the windows, locks, mirrors, and antenna, cruise control, and 16-way power adjustment for the driver’s seat. A CD player for the premium stereo was one of the few available factory options, and this car’s first owner ticked that box on their Order Form. This interior presents well for its age, with no major cosmetic flaws or imperfections. The leather sports the typical wrinkles of elegant aging, which lends character to the interior. The seller confirms that the CD is inoperative, which is the only fault that warrants a mention.
Buick adopted a “one size fits all” approach to the Reatta’s mechanical specifications. Every buyer received a 3.8-liter V6, a four-speed automatic transmission, and power assistance for the steering and the four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The company quotes power and torque figures of 165hp and 210 ft/lbs in its Sales Brochure, and with the Convertible tipping the scales north of 3,500 lbs, it was definitely more of a luxury Grand Tourer than a muscle car. The Reatta has long legs, allowing it to effortlessly cover vast distances while coccooning its occupants in total comfort. The seller states that this gem has 77,800 kilometers on the clock, which is the equivalent of around 48,300 miles. It features a new battery and almost new Michelin tires, and appears to be a turnkey proposition for its new owner.
Buick stressed exclusivity in its marketing literature for its Reatta, but the Convertible proved far more exclusive than originally planned. The 1990 model year proved its most successful, with 2,132 buyers handing over the cash to take one home. That tally slumped to 305 the following year, meaning that total Convertible sales represented only 11.2% of overall production. This first-year example presents exceptionally well for a survivor-grade classic, and with the Convertible typically commanding a 10% premium over the more common Coupe, the seller’s price looks realistic. Are those thoughts enough to tempt you to pursue this Buick further?
Rare Reatta.
Less than $7k USD? Worth a consideration or three…
I really like the drop top version better. ( just a personal preference) This would be so much fun to just drop the top and run out to Dairy Queen or Dunkin Donuts or what have you. Very nice shape too.
Very nice. Unfortunately FWD but it’s a “chick’s car,” not that there’s anything wrong with that. The same thing happened to the Buick Cascada. A near luxury sports tourer introduced when the market was already going to dumb SUVs and crossovers. That last year of Buick cars was should have been could have been but too late. If this were closer I’d give it look.
I just picked one up. They are interesting cars. Well built, great engine. The looks are odd but they grow on you. Very wide which gives wonderful wide seats. The nose is long and the rear is short in proportion. Giant tire sidewalls makes it look like a WWII era jeep. The car looks like it was designed right out of a Richard Scarry book.
GM had the Allante project going on at the same time. I like the looks of the Allante better but when you throw the whole package together, I would rather live with the Reatta.
Tall sidewalls underrated Paul. They soak up alot of bumps, comfier ride. 👍
Great write up Adam. I think the convertibles look better than the coupes and I’ve owned a lot of blue cars and this Maui blue is perfect for that summer convertible vibe. Hey Paul in MA, how much scuttle shake does your car have over bumps? Not that I would autocross one of these but does the car feel solid or flexible? At $7k US this is a deal.
I love the color. Appears to be a nice one.
I see these come up for sale fairly often online. Always thought they were rather cute little cars. My late neighbor, who was a big Buick guy, used to have 2 of them. I’m not a convertible lover at all but it looks in pretty nice shape and the price certainly seems right.