1970 Buick Riviera: A Well-Kept Second-Gen Personal Luxury Coupe Hits the Market

Buick’s Riviera has long stood as one of America’s most distinctive personal luxury coupes, and the second generation, built between 1966 and 1970, remains a favorite among collectors for its sharp styling and commanding presence. A particularly tidy example from that final year has now surfaced for sale in Salem, Oregon, carrying an asking price of $12,000 or best offer.

For 1970, Buick offered the Riviera in four distinct trims: Riviera I, II, III, and the performance-oriented GS. Judging by its vinyl roof and the slim fender skirts, this particular car appears to be a Riviera III. The Burgundy Mist paint is described as deep and rich, while the black vinyl top presents as essentially new. The body panels are said to be exceptionally straight, the chrome remains in solid condition, and the factory Buick road wheels give the coupe a finished, upscale look. Around 37,000 Rivieras were assembled at Buick City in Flint, Michigan that year, a notable drop of roughly 31 percent compared with 1969 output, a decline typical of a model’s final production year.

Motivation comes from a 455 cubic-inch V8 rated at 370 gross horsepower, paired with a Turbo-Hydramatic 400 three-speed automatic feeding the rear wheels. The seller reports the car runs great, and the engine bay is remarkably clean, which lends some credibility to the claimed 34,000 miles, though no documentation is offered to verify that figure.

Inside, the cabin features black Strato bucket seats and a center console. Both bench and bucket seating were available when new, with a Strato bench offered as a paid option. The carpet, door panels, and headliner are all reported to be in strong shape, reflecting careful ownership over the decades. The only real point of note is the air conditioning system, whose compressor appears to be missing its belt, something a prospective buyer would want to investigate before making an offer.

All things considered, this Riviera looks like a turnkey classic that needs very little beyond routine attention. For enthusiasts who appreciate the second-generation car’s blend of style and muscle, it could represent a genuinely appealing opportunity at the asking price.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial or purchasing advice.