Vehicle Description
This 1966 Buick Riviera is a true luxury cruising machine. It's the
first year of the second generation, and this was a larger/longer
style that wanted to own the boulevard. And with the big V8 power,
a vintage luxurious interior, and a true cruiser feel, this is a
terrific hardtop for those who enjoy an easy-driving classic.
The Riviera was Buick's exercise in true rolling style. These
second-generation coupes seemed to improve on all the best of the
1st gen. That means more size for the hood to get longer, the
fender tips to stretch further, and the hardtop profile elongates
for an even more fastback style. And they made the design look like
these never even had headlights. The headlight panels fit so well
today that you don't even recognize them in the grille, and for
1966, they dropped down with as much fanfare as a Broadway curtain.
There are nice details, like the form-hugging chrome bumpers, GS
badging, and Rallye wheels. It's a car that's meant to be driven,
so you'll find a few spots of age in the finish and brightwork
details to prove you have a true classic. But the way the large
doors still have a swift action reminds you that this has seen
proper care.
The factory-correct black interior has a timeless style against the
white exterior, and the level of care here makes it quite inviting.
The Riviera is all about being a personal luxury machine. So while
there's plenty of room for the passengers to enjoy, the driver will
always be king. That's why it features an armrest up front for
individual comfort. The upgraded dual-spoke steering wheel, tilt
column, and driver-oriented dash give you a command position. There
are cool vintage details like the power windows, working dash
courtesy lights, and factory air conditioning setup (it will need
restoration to blow cold again.) And that trunk is large enough for
a full-size spare and a week's worth of luggage - including golf
clubs.
Buick knew that effortless performance was the key to the Riviera's
success, so they made sure that there was plenty of power and
torque to move all that sheet metal with ease. The classic and
toque-filled Nailhead V8 looks good, with the bold red block
instantly standing out in the dark engine bay. And the distinctly
polished air grabbed and finned Buick valve covers give this added
sporty style. This is all about being a confident cruiser, and so
the TH400 three-speed automatic transmission is both stout and
smooth. There's also power steering, power brakes, and modern
cruising tires.
The mid-1960s were when hardtop personal cruisers made their mark,
and the debut of the second-generation Riviera set a new benchmark.
So if you love a classic made for driving, don't miss this Buick.
Call now!
