Buick Riviera (1st generation)
The pinnacle of Bill Mitchell's 'knife-edge' styling and American personal luxury.
- Power
- 325 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 8.0 s
- Top speed
- 115 mph
- Est. value
- $13k–$31k
About the Buick Riviera
The first-generation Buick Riviera was a landmark in American design, conceived by Bill Mitchell to combine the elegance of a Rolls-Royce with the sportiness of a Ferrari. The 1964 model year introduced the 'Super Turbine 400' three-speed transmission, significantly improving the driving experience over the previous two-speed unit. The 'Wildcat 445' trim refers to the engine's torque rating in lb-ft, produced by the 401-cubic-inch 'Nailhead' V8, known for its vertical valve arrangement and immense low-end shove. While positioned as a luxury cruiser, its shortened cruciform frame and sophisticated suspension made it one of the best-handling American cars of its era.
Buick Riviera specs
The Buick Riviera produces 325 bhp (242 kW) and 603 Nm (445 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 8.0 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph (185 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Riviera |
| Generation | First Generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | Wildcat 445 |
| Years | 1963–1965 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Coupé |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $4,400 when new |
| Engine | 6.6-litre 'Nailhead' V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 6,572 cc (6.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 325 bhp (242 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 603 Nm (445 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,000 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 8.0 s |
| Top speed | 115 mph (185 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,813 kg (3,997 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 179 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Riviera worth?
A typical Buick Riviera is estimated to be worth $13,000 – $31,000 (about £9,300 – £23,000).
Its original price when new was about $4,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Riviera rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Riviera is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 36 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Riviera fun facts
- The '445' in the name refers to the engine's torque output in lb-ft, a common Buick marketing practice of the era.
- Design chief Bill Mitchell was inspired by a custom-bodied Rolls-Royce he saw in London, leading to the Riviera's distinctive 'razor-edge' styling.
- The 1964 model was the first to feature the stylized 'R' emblem, which remained a Riviera trademark for over 30 years.
