Possibly as nice a 1989 Buick Riviera as you’ll find, this example was owned by the seller’s dad, who bought it from the original owner in 1991, before the seller got it in 2017. It looks like a true time capsule in Pewter Gray, and it can be found here on eBay in Kinston, North Carolina, and they’re asking $11,595, or you can make an offer. Thanks to T.J. for the tip!
Rear drive or front drive, big and heavy or small and relatively light (or lighter), it’s hard to go wrong with Buick’s two-door luxury car, no matter the generation. This is a seventh-generation car, and they were made for model years 1986 through 1993 in this one body style. The previous generation cars, the first ones with front-wheel drive, were available in a convertible body style for a few years, but they never came with four doors.
A few months ago, I made a convertible version, and I’m not sure if that works too well. I think they would have sold fairly well. The four-door version, though, is one of my favorite Photoshop creations for some reason. The seller has included several good overall photos, including one showing the clean trunk compartment. Is that a trophy from a car show? I’m guessing yes, but there’s no mention of it. The top says 2023, but I can’t read the little plaque on the bottom. This car is a prize winner in my opinion. Here’s a nice walk-around video on YouTube that the seller provided. What a gem of a car.
I know that big 1950s through the ’70s (80s?) luxury cars get most of the love here on Barn Finds and elsewhere. I like them as much as the next person, but I really like the size of a car like this Riviera. It’s well over two feet shorter than the longest Riviera, yet I’m betting it’s still as luxurious, quiet, and smooth as the best of the best Rivieras. The gray leather seats look great, the back seat looks perfect, and this one has the famous/infamous touchscreen on the dash. And yes, this one works as it should. Gages instead of Gauges? I know that’s a scientific or technical spelling, but it seems strange here. Maybe not. This car shows 69,080 miles on the digital odometer and the seller’s dad bought it with 21,000 miles on it in 1991. The seller got it in 2017 when his dad could no longer drive.
The only engine available was Buick’s 3.8-liter OHV V6, which had 165 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque when new. Backed by a four-speed Turbo-Hydramatic 440-T4 sending power to the front wheels, the seller says it’s been maintained as it should over the years, and everything works as it should, including the AC. Hagerty is as $12,200 for a #2 excellent condition example, and this one has to be close to that, which is where the seller has it priced. Any thoughts on this Riviera?
This looks like a real mint condition creampuff Riv. And not only is it in great condition, but everything works too. I will admit, when these came out, I really liked the older larger ones, but now 37 years later, I appreciate a lot more. The designers really tried to have the styling related to the earlier models, when you look at it, there’s not mistaking this for anything but a Riv. This was somebodys baby since 1989 and I sure hope it stays that way.
Agree Dave, and drive around in total comfort. 😌