1966 Buick Riviera GS

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!