Vehicle Description
This 1979 Buick Riviera 3.8 Turbocharged coupe is one of those
impressive classics that you may not have even known first existed.
After all, who would have expected such a luxurious coupe to also
have such a powerful turbo motor that would later be shared with
the Grand National? It's the kind of loaded, swift, stylish, and
rare distinction that makes this coupe such a fun cruiser
classic.
The new generation Riviera debuted for 1979. It was a distinct mix
of sharp angles and gentle curves that made it one of the most
attractive designs of the 1970s. It's this mix of style and
substance that has given this two-owner car such a well-respected
presentation. The factory-correct Saffron Metallic has been treated
to a respray later in life, and so it continues to have an
interesting depth that brings out extra red/orange undertones when
the sunlight hits it. There's a tan pinstripe running the full
length of the car the really highlights the gentle curves in its
profile, and it also coordinates nicely with the taut-fitting
half-vinyl roof. There's even nice brightwork everywhere from the
chrome bumpers to the solid wheel covers with the unique Riviera
logo. The full mileage for this coupe is officially unknown, but
it's suspected that there was just one rollover to this five-digit
odometer. And that fits with the feeling of less use and better
care impression that the full package gives.
We love it when the pinstripe and roof are also a preview of the
interior color. It sets the tone right for a thoughtful and
luxurious car. The seats have leather tops for a supple feel, and
they are in quite good condition for a car approaching its 45th
birthday. And we love the little details, like the condition or the
walnut-style trim and how the full courtesy lighting package greets
you when the door opens. This is loaded with the best features like
the power seat, power windows, power locks, tilt steering column,
the Delco AM/FM stereo with 8-Track, and cold-blowing air
conditioning. There are fold-down armrests in each row, so you can
go for a more individual level of comfort. Plus, there are some
nice hints at the sporty powerhouse with factory additions like the
sports steering wheel and a turbo gauge added to the readouts.
Under the hood is the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6. The motor looks
quite stock and well-maintained, and it even has some added flair
with the polished valve covers. This turbo powerhouse would later
be tweaked and updated to become the legend we love in other Buicks
like the Grand National and GNX. But those were icons of the 1980s,
and so it's that much more impressive to have something this
advanced from the end of the 1970s. Topped with a four-barrel
carburetor, this motor gave the Riviera one of the most admired 0
to 60 times in the luxury class and made it a bit of a secret
rocket ship. It even has a fully independent suspension with sway
bars front & rear to make it a sharp handler. Still, this Buick
does not betray its easy cruising luxury cruising nature with its
power steering, power brakes, front discs, and three-speed
automatic transmission.
This is a special two-owner car, and so you get an exceptional
level of paperwork, too. It includes the factory buildsheet,
original window sticker, and owner's manual. It's amazing that this
kind of desirable package and rarity can be had at such an
affordable price. Call today!!!
