Recent article on BarnFinds dot com: No Reserve: 1964 Buick Riviera I’m sure we all have a dream garage that we’d filled with classic cars if we had the space and available funds. Mine would include a ’66 Mustang GT Fastback, but I wouldn’t hesitate to park a First Generation Buick Riviera beside it. I’ve always felt this was the best looking of the Personal Luxury Cars, and this 1964 model is no exception. The paint shade will probably polarize readers, but it still presents nicely. If you like what you see and find yourself sorely tempted, the seller’s decision to offer it with No Reserve could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back. This Riviera is listed here on eBay in Groveland, Florida Bidding sits at $11,807, and with No Reserve in play, a new home is beckoning for this classic. (it's at US$ 12,766.00 at this moment) Buick released its First Generation Riviera in 1963, limiting the sales total to increase desirability and exclusivity. The 1964 model featured some minor cosmetic updates, and this Riviera is 1-of-37,958 to find a home in that model year. We must first address the elephant in the room because the paint shade gracing its sweeping panels does not come from the 1964 color chart. Investigation suggests it is Code 51 Bright Yellow, which was part of the Buick range in 1981. I feel it doesn’t suit a vehicle of this type, although your opinion might differ from mine. It presents well, with no visible issues. The panels are straight and clean, and it is worth noting that there is none of the visible rust that can plague these classics. It would be worth performing an in-person inspection, but first impressions are promising. The chrome and tinted glass are in good order, as are the wire wheels. It will be fascinating to gauge reader opinion on the paint and to see how many of you would consider changing it. The Riviera’s exterior might look clean and tidy, but its interior raises that impression. Its Black upholstered surfaces are generally excellent, but I did notice some slight deterioration on the top of the driver’s door trim. Addressing this quickly would prevent a small problem from morphing into a big one. Riviera trim is not cheap, making this a wise strategy. The dash and pad are impressive, and the woodgrain isn’t plagued with deterioration. The winning bidder benefits from ice-cold air conditioning, power windows, power locks, a tilt wheel, and an AM/FM radio. The 1963 Riviera featured a 401ci “Nailhead” V8 under the hood, with the 425ci powerplant as the optional upgrade. The 425 became standard in 1964, producing 340hp and 465 ft/lbs of torque. There was no manual transmission option, with buyers receiving a three-speed auto, power steering, and power brakes. Buick’s luxury focus was apparent in its equipment levels and the 4,056 lb curb weight. However, there was still enough power and torque to launch this classic through the ¼-mile in 15.3 seconds. This Riviera sports an aftermarket Edelbrock air cleaner, but that appears to be the only change. It runs and drives perfectly, with smooth operation for the engine and transmission. The seller confirms the claim by including this YouTube video. That V8 sounds sweet, and the footage also reveals the car is surprisingly free from rattles and squeaks. I’m unsure what to make of this 1964 Buick Riviera because it confuses me. It features the styling that has always attracted me to these cars, but I find the paint shade unappealing. If I found it in my garage, I would probably have to sell something to fund a repaint in a more appropriate shade. If that meant parting with another car, then so be it. That’s how much I love these classics. Do you feel the same about this or any other vehicle? I hope you do because I hate to think I’m the “Lone Ranger” in my feelings.
