1965 Buick Riviera

The 1965 model year marked the final year of the first-generation Buick Riviera, and it also introduced the Gran Sport, a name that would become synonymous with Buick performance for decades. The Riviera Gran Sport paired the 360-horsepower Super Wildcat V8 with the Super Turbine 400 transmission, larger dual exhaust, heavy-duty suspension, and a 3.42:1 rear axle. Considering the Bill Mitchell styling and the performance upgrades, it is easy to see how Buick justified the factory price of $4,318, and why fewer than 3,400 buyers stepped up for one. Once described by Sergio Pininfarina as one of the most beautiful American cars ever built, the 1965 Riviera looks as avant-garde and striking today as it did more than sixty years ago.The 1965 Riviera offered here is finished in the factory color combination of Midnight Aqua over a Saddle interior, and it wears the Gran Sport look from every angle. It is important to note that this car is presented as a Gran Sport tribute. It carries a standard 1965 Riviera transmission code rather than the GS-specific code, and original Gran Sport provenance cannot be documented. We have priced it accordingly. For the enthusiast who wants the style, presence, and Nailhead V8 driving experience of a first-generation Riviera without paying a premium for pedigree, this is exactly the right car.This is an honest, driver-quality example that has been enjoyed and maintained rather than subjected to a full rotisserie restoration. It shows well in person and draws a crowd wherever it goes. In the interest of full transparency, we note rocker panel corrosion ahead of the rear wheels on both sides and an inoperative air conditioning system. Detailed photos of these areas are available on request, and we welcome pre-purchase inspections.First-generation Rivieras have earned their place among the most desirable American designs of the 1960s, and clean examples in this color combination are increasingly difficult to find. Every Chesrown pre-owned vehicle is True Market Priced and backed by our family-owned reputation. Please contact one of our sales consultants for more information. They will be happy to give you a complete walk-around, supply additional photos and documentation, and answer any questions you may have. See it in person in Delaware, Ohio.