The Buick Riviera was one of the first cars to usher in the heyday of the personal luxury car. That category is defined by powerful engines, sleek coupe designs, and a hint of sporty flair. First-generation Rivieras like the 1964 example recently available on eBay are the epitome of that 1960s style.
item 1 of 14
The eBay car is all the more remarkable because it’s one of the few equipped from the factory with the most powerful engine available at the time.
The Super Wildcat V-8 added twin four-barrel carburetors to the optional 425-cubic-inch V-8. It's good for 360 horsepower. Backed by the original automatic transmission, the powertrain can push you back in the seat with silky smooth acceleration.
The Super Wildcat package also included cosmetic upgrades. There is a chrome air cleaner and finned aluminum valve covers, still present on this low mileage Riviera. The correct KX engine code confirms that the car a one of just 2,122 Rivieras so equipped from the factory.
Virtually New
The lightly used 1964 Buick is a southern car. This Riviera was never exposed to corrosive road salt and chemicals associated with winter driving.
Initially purchased in Chattanooga, Tenn., the Riviera remained with the same family until the current owner bought the car in 2007. He promptly relocated it to Arizona. Now showing almost 73,000 miles, the body is virtually rust-free. An extensive set of photos reveals a solid frame and rocker panels, floors, and body panels all in good shape.
The owner rebuilt the engine in 2007. And since then, he added only 2,000 miles. Other recent work includes:
- A new dual exhaust system
- Electric fuel pump
- A rebuilt radiator and driveshaft
The car is currently running a four-barrel carburetor. But the owner rebuilt the original and hard-to-find factory dual-quad setup and manifold. He is including that gear with the sale.
Dual Carter four-barrel carbs were part of the rare Super Wildcat option.
A previous owner had already completely rebuilt the suspension.
The interior looks virtually new, with seats reupholstered to factory specifications. The vehicle is equipped with optional wood trim on the dash, doors, and console. This Riviera is a garage-kept car—and the dash pad is free of cracks. The door panels, carpets, and headliner are also in excellent condition.
A Ready-to-Drive Classic for $25k
The factory air conditioning was rebuilt entirely in 2016 with an upgraded Sanden compressor - opens in new window or tab.. It now blows ice cold, and all four power windows operate as they should. The car comes with its vent window cranks intact.
Extensive documentation and maintenance records indicate that this largely original car had just one repaint in the original Desert Beige in 1995. The paint still shows well.
Any minor details that need attention should be easy to fix—and will only increase the car’s value. A new owner can enjoy this rare and solid Riviera in the meantime. Best of all, the price of admission is a reasonable $25,000.
About the author
Share your feedback
This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.