Totally beautiful I brought my 1995 Buick Riviera supercharged when I was 24 years old and that was maybe in 2002 and I still have it till this day ... .. really beautiful car it's a beast on tha highway good gas mileage too .. most absolutely love this car ...
Proud Owner of a 1998 Dark Green Riviera with 145,000 miles when I Purchased it back in February of 2022. Not too common to come across on the road these days. It has been of the best cars I've ever owned to this day!
As an owner of a '97 Riv, with stock exhaust it's as quiet as a ghost and only makes a slight sound from the tires when you turn the wheel. With a few performance mods, it will get you up to highway speed in no time and push you into the seat. It's a joy to own and drive. Thank you for the video!
I have one , only it’s a 98 , supercharged …I purchased this 3.5 years ago with 73,400 miles .. I’m the second owner and I paid 3600 … it’s one of the best automobiles I’ve ever owned … fortunately , Rita , the riviera has been garaged emote life , incredible condition , the lady I purchased from, husband worked at the dealer ship and I have all records … people either love it or hate it … I have multiple vehicles and a plethora a motorcycles , and the few days I drive this genius engineered piece of art , I have a smile on my face … thank you Buick …
You ,Bill are my favorite auto video reviewer - nobody does it like you ! The goats, cats, attacking birds, best car reveiws, and weather reports - what more could you want - keep it all coming my friend - makes every day special - especially this past year ! Thanks Bill !
He also knows his history and gets it all correct every time. Unlike other channels like shooting cars where the guy gets information wrong on every video. Plus his videos are far more entertaining than any other car reviewers because of the commentary like gun space and cocaine space in your center console LOL I really like that and can relate because I love the two of those so much LOL. But yeah keep doing what you do you are great bill
There was a very famous Glenn Larson " The Far Side " cartoon that featured a chubby kid at the top of a playground slide. At the bottom were two spiders that had spun a web across it. The caption was " I know it's a long shot but if we pull this off we'll eat like Kings! "......The same strategy has been applied by whomever prices these cars for retail sale at AutoHaus.
They got this one wrong too! I remember when they came out. They could have gave it a dose of modernity by putting the 4-cam 4.0 liter Aurora V8 (which later was ised as a very high strung 10,000 rpm race motor) but they wanted to keep it all Buick by giving it the 3800 with a small Eaton blower. Durable motors, but about as exciting as watching grass grow. Styling wise, it was a flop: looks like a flattened jellybean. "Personal luxury coupes" to me means large cars with tiny interiors that handle like shit.
Good damnit bill....you never fail me. Ever. This is literally my favorite American model EVER. So contemporary and amazing for what was a dying breed. I love this.
My dad was a long time Riviera/Toronado owner. His last one was a '97. Loved the luxury and supercharger made it quite the cruiser down the highways of Motown.
Production ended on November 25th, 1998. This is why production was so low for the 1999 model year at just 2,154 units. This is sad considering it was one of the best efforts made by GM. My stepdad owned a '97 for about 15 years and put almost 300,000 miles on it. It still ran strong, but started having electrical issues. Most reliable and trouble-free car ever.
I love to listen to you talking about the history of these cars which we do not know much about over here in Europe. I really liked the boat-tail Riviera. Thanks for the content.
they are indeed wonderful traveling cars. I've taken mine on thousands of miles of road trips - still have it. The quality of the ride is one that you probably don't find as much anymore. Seats are amazingly comfortable.
The engine unfortunately had a major design flaw - see my reply below relative to the EGR tube issue. Mine died at around 60k miles when the engine flooded and hydrolocked due to the manifold being compromised. Except for that problem, otherwise I have to agree on it probably being one of GM's best at the time. Transmission didn't hold up either and had to be replaced. My 2nd (Jasper replacement) engine was a real dud - only lasted about 30k miles and then pushed a rod right through the block. Truly amazing that I still have this car after the thousands and thousands of $$ that I threw at it in the course of 27 years! If I didn't like the design of it so much I suspect I'd have traded it in years ago. Can't think of much engine / mechanical-wise that hasn't been replaced by now. Really enjoyed your thorough review! Funny thing about the security system - haven't been able to use mine for years. Everytime I'd arm it the alarm would start going off after a half-hour or so.(typically happened while we were in church....it was like...yep...that's my car...again). So ever since that problem came about I lock the doors manually before closing them - never with the remote. I really want a new car (though contemplating keeping the Riviera) but don't see anything I like near as much as the design of this. Hate most of the new front grilles for one thing.
I have the series 2 with 185,000 and it’s just purring right along. Changed the thermostat and flushed the radiator today and it was so easy to work on.
Good evening Bill welcome back. Here in England we are having a heatwave 75F too hot for me. Glad the goats are leaving you alone along with the birds.
Always liked this car. Reminds me of driving my dad back and forth from NY to Florida every fall and spring. When he took a snooze I pushed it, till the vibrations got to be too much.
I totally feel the same way, hate the alpha numeric names. I love 2dr personal luxury cars. This Riviera I absolutely adore. Almost bought one 20 years ago. Sadly the Monte Carlo, Riviera, Eldorado, Coronado and Grand Prix are all gone. This is a great example.
This was my favorite car at the autoshow when this style debuted. Great video Bill, Iove the reference pics when describing prior models and your knowledge behind their history. Only thing missing are the goats🐐🐐 lol. Thanks.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
These were super cool. The prior 7th gen that had that 9 inch CRT screen (way ahead of us time technologically) were awesome as well. Rivera has always been top notch since inception.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
Thank you so much for this video! I never knew this car existed until I stumbled upon your video here, 3 months ago. The vehicle's appearance was so large and striking, I instantly fell in love! Today I purchased a 1996 (December 1995) Riviera with the supercharged 3800, and electric moon roof Absolutely angel soft ride, sloshes like a waterbed over aggressive bumps/traintracks to ensure I don't get uncomfortable I adore my new (old) Riviera, it's the SAME white as this one, has 186,xxx miles on it, and has some issues, but it still runs and drives well! I only paid $900 for it! I'm fixing it and making it my secondary daily
those 3800 motors are damn near bullet proof, i had a grand prix with one and it went around 250k miles before the transmission failed. hope it is still serving you well
Beautiful car, classic styling and a great drive train. I put 224,000 trouble free miles on a 3800 in an '01 Lesabre company car. We turned them in at 25,000 but the car was so great I bought it.
The front end has always reminded me of the late 1950's Ferrari 250 TR. Glad you spotlighted this gen of Riv. It was Buick's dying breath as it was being choked out by GM HQ. I talked to one of the guys who worked in the Buick design studio a few years ago at Rt. 66 Raceway in Joliet Il no less. Quite a few points you brought up that would have made the car a classic; such as RWD, 2 door hdtp, more uniform body lines; were brought up quite a few times in their meetings. The reason why it wasn't allowed was directly due to the popularity and unbelievable performance of the GN. He said that at the design meeting for '97 when they were going to refresh the car; that in no uncertain terms "was the Riv going to have any more performance that the pedestrian sedan and the only thing they were to work on was comfort.". He said for about 3 months, they were basically "phoning in" styling upgrades to the head office. He said they were lucky to get away with adding the L67 but wanted it to have a 5-speed manual option to more closely mimic the European cars, but GM saw where that would lead; more HP. Since the GN was besting GM's performance monikers with ease; the Camaro, Firebird & Vettes & the fact that the insc was so darn cheap since everything was an option on the Regal line unlike the others as a specific performance model; GM would not allow it. Also near the middle end of the 97 model year, they were instructed to submit designs for a 4 door Riv based on the incoming Holden VF cars that were going to be rebadged for US sales. He said that was when everyone basically gave up and started looking to move to either different nameplates on GM or planning on taking early retirement. I though the Riv was a really good looking car, and I still do. I agree with the dash being bland. I would have done and entire wood laminated wood insert across the dash; including the door panels & down the center console like the first gen Riv. If you added chrome trim around the vents , it would also help to update the look and even a nav system that you mentioned; though I can't stand those things. I would have also had color matching inserts in the seats, front & back to match. I've had quite a few Buick's and I still kick myself for selling my 65 Riv GS w/Super Wildcat 465 in '85. I bought it for $750. Needed carbs rebuilt, trans rebuild, pinion bearing & seal, axle bearings & seals; but the rest of the car was in great condition & even the original interior had no rips or tears. Had it on the road after being down for the winter doing the repairs for only 3 months and was offered $4K cash at a stoplight a few blocks from home. I walked the 4 blocks and now I'd pull over and kick his butt for selling it.
This is one of the greatest all-time stream of consciousness spoken word pieces that just happens to have a car as its anchor point. I love cars, so I found my way to this channel recently, but now I want to make a playlist of these reviews. Bravo my good man! Keep this magic going please, and/or find somebody to just package these as podcasts.
These cars never get old to me. Any and every year this car still looks new too me!! No matter what comes out! i'm gonna get me one and get it flawless!
My uncle had one one these and in its day I thought it looked and went like a spaceship. I definitely noticed the "b" pillarless design back then. You also NEVER saw these cars and even less so today. I actually do think the design aged VERY well and still looks great. It was a luxury front drive car with a great engine for the time, no sports car at all.
Hey Bill, it will be 100+ degrees in Winnipeg on Friday. It was below freezing less than two weeks ago. Love the weather reports and all the other funny commentary. Thanks from a chipper Canadian.
First time I saw one was on a commercial as a kid. I really couldn’t believe my eyes. We really were living in a properly modern era. Email, internet and 95 RIVIERA
This guy makes me see the beauty in the otherwise ordinary. I never even notice crap like this on the road but I now have an appreciation. Then again, this guy is a car salesman, and I would probably buy a model T if he showed it to me.
I agree with you Bill, most Riviera models look great. I have always loved these Buick Riv models. I wish I had one from the 60's. Great video as usual sir!
I still remember how much room we had in the back of my sister's Alero Coupe. I loved the Olds interior in that car, even though the Alero was Malibu-derived. Hers was a loaded model, though. I think my favorite part was their logo. And inside on the radio, it said Oldsmobile. I haven't seen one in a few years.
I'm one of those guys who didn't care for that styling. It's not Edsel-esc but the first generation Rivs were instant home runs and very difficult to follow up.
A beautiful car. I really appreciate the amount of research you did to present the history of the Riviera. The "raw chicken thigh" comment just added to the fun. Thanks for an enjoyable video.
Hello Bill. I enjoyed the video of the 99 Buick Riviera. My father drove an all black version of the Riviera in your video. When he would drive down to Florida from southeastern Pennsylvania , he mentioned that people were attracted to the looks of the car. Also, due to the weight of the car plus front wheel drive, it was an excellent car in the snow. As for where the cup holders are in the rear seating area of the Riviera, I believe they are located in the arm rest that folds down in the backseat. Looking forward to watching future and past videos. Take care, Stephen Brown
You're right, Bill about '79-'85 Rivs. They were FWD. I owned a rare '85 Riv T-type that had a 3.8 Turbo, FWD and was pretty quick, yet delivered great fuel economy.
That boat hustles up to 60 nice and quick. Love that 3800. Excellent in the camaro Y87 manual package as well. Had a few cars with it, only problem ever being ignition coil pack fail, which were cheap fixes.
Another fine review Bill. I agree with you. I want to love the lines on this thing, but it’s just got that, what I’ll call “90’s malaise” to steal from you. But instead of performance malaise, it was styling malaise. The entire decade has maybe a handful of notably good looking rides.
I had a 1995 Super charged Riv. Bought it at gm carlise in 1997 for 8500 bucks. It was a 60k mile car loved it. Have to say it had the most comfortable seats of any car I have ever owned. No issues with this car ever. Traded it on a 1999 Eldorado in 2001. What a mistake Eldorado was bugged up bad stability control system. Dumped that car and traded it on a new 2003 Tbird. Still have my Tbird. People seem to bash the last tbird but I love mine! Bought my mom an 1989 Rivera which she drove until her passing. She never had any issues with her car. Those 3800 motors are great just watch out for when GM changed to dex cool heard they screwed up and had some issues with dex cool getting into the motor.
In my 20’s I had a ‘95 with the series 1 3800 supercharged. It was extremely comfortable and good looking, black with tan leather. My favorite features were exterior and interior styling. Interior had leds hidden the grab handles on door that’s only purpose was to place a spotlight on the window switch. So Elegant. The independent climate control on passenger side with personal vents and wrap around dash were also favorites of mine. My plan was to drop it a few inches and put Cadillac DTS wheels with white walls but sadly my brother wrecked it before I got a chance. Issues were the clear coat peeling and overheating due to the weird way you had to bleed the cooling system. There are one or two prototypes with the NorthStar or ShortStar v8 i forget which one. I saw one on sale on EBay probably 15 years ago.
A friend of mine had one and I loved it. Finally a Riv that was big again. Another friend who preferred the Eldorado quipped that it resembled a turd. Totally killed it for me. I enjoyed the fact that Olds had a version in the Aurora.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
I used to work with a gentleman that called me “Lil Mama” that had one of the ‘90s models of this car back when I was 19. I barely knew him but always thought his car was cool and unique and nobody else in town had the same car. He never blasted music out of it and I only ever saw him drive it safely. He seemed like a good dude who loved his car. I hope he is still driving it.
Id love to have this car.. it is a beauty. I had a 95 that was an old ladies car, and it was really clean, with woodgrain dash, well done woodgrain.. I miss it :)
I started watching your show because you were sponsoring or sponsoring a car I like. I continued watching it because I enjoy your rhetoric. Keep up the good work!
@@e46m54nissansr20937 I had a 3.8 in my old Bonneville. The car was stolen and trashed. The thieves had even broken one of the engine mounts. Insurance fixed everything and that engine ran 8 more years with no issue.
I had hoped this was the case, but then unfortunately fell victim to the major issue with this engine, which was when the EGR tube that comes up into the upper intake burns the plastic part of the manifold around the pipe. It melts and causes the coolant channel in the intake to rupture thereby flooding the cylinders with coolant causing hydrolock. It happened after a 4,000 mile road trip, thankfully close to home when the engine tanked. Then, a replacement 3800 I put in didn't last very long either. Threw a rod right through the block (most dramatic truly). 3rd engine, which is still in the car, is from a '99 LeSabre and is undisputably the best engine the car has ever had.
My first car was a ‘96 lesabre with a 3800. Absolutely adored that car. Super easy to work on and drove like a dream. I will say though that the starter motor is almost impossible to replace without lifting the engine.
This is a really clean example with nice neutral colors and no crappy add-on fabric roof (dealers suck!). I'm actually quite okay with the power seat switches down there on the seat base - that's vintage GM and Ford, and since the buttons "resemble" the seats, it's pretty easy to figure out. It was only an issue when you couldn't squeeze your hand between the doors and seats on some cars.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
I have a 1998 Riviera with the same color combination. 25k miles in pristine condition. I’ve had my share of great cars and horrible cars over my 59 years, and I’d have to put this right up there with the top 2 or 3 best I’ve had. It’s bigger than you think when you see it in person. Very solid in every way, too. Smooth, but a sporty ride, especially for a Buick. Just a great looking and superb riding car. It’s a real CAR!
I was thinking that very thing. Appearance & styling are so subjective, and although I can see the perspective of the 'critical eye', as the reviewer was talking about the car's looks, I was going over the designs of the last ~10-15 years and thinking _"yup--this is a classy looking car"._
Great video! I remember when I was a kid my dad took my brother and I with him to a dealership to look at cars. This Aurora was brand new in the showroom. I got into it and remember thinking it looked like it was inspired by Star Trek. I instantly fell in love with it. They also had a brand new Mitsubishi 3000 GT and Subaru SVX. What an incredible era. My dad ended up buying a brand new 1999 Subaru Impreza 2door with the black cherry paint. What a great day with Dad.
Modern cars look like they were designed by an origami artist. I will take the Riv with it's one simple, elegant bone line. Unfortunately you do have to be up close to the car to appreciate it.
I had a 97 Riv. It was the best car I ever owned and the one I loved the most. I rue the day I traded it for a Cadillac CTS, but the Cadillac fit my needs better at the time and the Buick had about 150k miles. So it was time. This car has it all fast, stylish and good on gas. Thanks for the memories. I think the tires limited the top speed. 👍
After it took the ’94 model year off, the Riviera returned with its eighth generation in 1995. It transitioned to the G-body platform that was used for the large Buick Park Avenue of 1997. Riviera’s wheelbase grew to 113.8 inches (from 108), and overall length increased from a paltry 187.8 inches to a more proper 207 inches. It was also a couple of inches wider and taller than the outgoing model. VALUE of anything you have what it cost to replace it try replacing a 1999 Riviera with the toy cars of today and see how much you will pay! FEW computers have 4 to sell $12,000 BEST touring coupe USA ever built
They weren't sleeper's lol. If you're meaning fast, not even the T Type turbo 85 Riv was fast but more like quick for a big car it's size and not many of those are out there. The 3.8 2 barrel is a dog and the other option 307 olds is okish. I owned a 83 Toronado with the 307 and 4speed automatic and the best I could say is it was comfortable, stylish, and floated. Definitely not a sleeper though.
Back when these were new, I lusted after this car. I still love the looks of them today - and the original Aurora, too. Some of GM’s best designs.
Strangely me too.
Just bought a 1998 Aurora from Copart for $525. Runs like new!
True! Gorgeous cars of this era
@@jeffshadow2407 you stole that car! Green with envy
Might get me one someday. A tribute to Buick as it’s a real piece of art in my eyes.
Totally beautiful I brought my 1995 Buick Riviera supercharged when I was 24 years old and that was maybe in 2002 and I still have it till this day ... .. really beautiful car it's a beast on tha highway good gas mileage too .. most absolutely love this car ...
How many miles?
@@hitek9too255 right now I have 149,000 mi on it .... I don't drive it as much as I used to cuz I have another car ...
I had a 96 super charged in 02 and I remember smoking Auroras all day Rivera was ahead of its time.
Have you been by Riviera Performance?
rivperformance.editboard.com/
This is the home for 8th gen Riv owners.
@@tonyjon1723 thee 1996 Oldsmobile Aurora was a beauty of a V8 of a car my Lord
Proud Owner of a 1998 Dark Green Riviera with 145,000 miles when I Purchased it back in February of 2022.
Not too common to come across on the road these days. It has been of the best cars I've ever owned to this day!
How's the transmission?
Be curious to know, kind of know the engine is good. I used to park these as a vallet and really like how they drove
As an owner of a '97 Riv, with stock exhaust it's as quiet as a ghost and only makes a slight sound from the tires when you turn the wheel. With a few performance mods, it will get you up to highway speed in no time and push you into the seat. It's a joy to own and drive. Thank you for the video!
I'll buy it from you. How much do you want?
@@rebeltvr6046 $400,000.00
I have one , only it’s a 98 , supercharged …I purchased this 3.5 years ago with 73,400 miles .. I’m the second owner and I paid 3600 … it’s one of the best automobiles I’ve ever owned … fortunately , Rita , the riviera has been garaged emote life , incredible condition , the lady I purchased from, husband worked at the dealer ship and I have all records … people either love it or hate it … I have multiple vehicles and a plethora a motorcycles , and the few days I drive this genius engineered piece of art , I have a smile on my face … thank you Buick …
You stole that (at that price), and, sound like a...
Curious cars is my favorite weather channel and my favorite car channel. 😹😹❤️
I wish Bill was a weather forecaster!! Regardless of where he was I would watch!!
"they're gods creatures untill they peck your eyes out" I dont come for the cars but for the quotes and to learn them :) The Buick is a nice bonus :P
Birds and women have alot of common
@@V8_screw_electric_carsV12 screw v8’s😂 yes i have one
I wish Bill would do some nature documentaries. "It's got the perfect sized claws to rip a hole in your side in one swipe," etc.
Beautiful Car, I love how you go into the history of the cars, thank you Bill.
We love you man for the weather , guns , Canadians and the cats :) oh and the birds hahaha watching all your videos from Dubai
The Riviera and the Lincoln Mark VIII were the coolest American cars of 90's.
You ain’t lyin’
Facts
Riviera > Mark VIII . . .
FULL luxury vs muscle luxury.
@@Scientists_dont_lie nah. Of the two, I liked my Mark's interior much better, and you could still sit in one today and it wouldn't feel as dated.
My favorite Buick of all time 1979 and 1980 Buick Riviera S-Type Turbo
You ,Bill are my favorite auto video reviewer - nobody does it like you ! The goats, cats, attacking birds, best car reveiws, and weather reports - what more could you want - keep it all coming my friend - makes every day special - especially this past year ! Thanks Bill !
dont forget the ninja squirrels!
The goats standing on the BMW was a hilarious episode. Oh of course the crappy weather reports too
Lest I forget ! Attack squirrels, suicidal chickens in the streets, an occasional peacock , maybe a rooster ?
For the love of God... from cars, to now airplanes and golf carts, Bill is the G.O.A.T.! 🫡
He also knows his history and gets it all correct every time. Unlike other channels like shooting cars where the guy gets information wrong on every video. Plus his videos are far more entertaining than any other car reviewers because of the commentary like gun space and cocaine space in your center console LOL I really like that and can relate because I love the two of those so much LOL. But yeah keep doing what you do you are great bill
There was a very famous Glenn Larson " The Far Side " cartoon that featured a chubby kid at the top of a playground slide. At the bottom were two spiders that had spun a web across it. The caption was " I know it's a long shot but if we pull this off we'll eat like Kings! "......The same strategy has been applied by whomever prices these cars for retail sale at AutoHaus.
I was never really impressed with GM cars in the 90's, bit this was one car that GM got right.
It looked like a bloated turd on the road.
I loved this and the 1995-1998 Oldsmobile Aurora
Many say that same thing about alot of 90s GMs, they really had something for anyone it would seem.
And the full-sized trucks. But of course the 2nd generation Cavalier was the worst
They got this one wrong too! I remember when they came out. They could have gave it a dose of modernity by putting the 4-cam
4.0 liter Aurora V8 (which later was ised as a very high strung 10,000 rpm race motor) but they wanted to keep it all Buick by giving it the 3800 with a small Eaton blower. Durable motors, but about as exciting as watching grass grow. Styling wise, it was a flop: looks like a flattened jellybean. "Personal luxury coupes" to me means large cars with tiny interiors that handle like shit.
Good damnit bill....you never fail me. Ever. This is literally my favorite American model EVER. So contemporary and amazing for what was a dying breed. I love this.
I have heard from a mechanic that the 3800 engine is awesome. Thanks for another informative video.
Also, good to see you back.
Got a 16 year old one right now with 170K.on it, drives like new. Leaks no oil, burns no oil. It's not uncommon to get 300K miles out of the 3800.
My dad was a long time Riviera/Toronado owner. His last one was a '97. Loved the luxury and supercharger made it quite the cruiser down the highways of Motown.
Production ended on November 25th, 1998. This is why production was so low for the 1999 model year at just 2,154 units. This is sad considering it was one of the best efforts made by GM. My stepdad owned a '97 for about 15 years and put almost 300,000 miles on it. It still ran strong, but started having electrical issues. Most reliable and trouble-free car ever.
Yes, the electrics on this car were the main problem area.
Actual the # produced was 1,956 including 200 Silver Arrows as the very last !
I was about to panic without a video from my favorite car review channel, I don’t know how you don’t have a million subscribers!
I love to listen to you talking about the history of these cars which we do not know much about over here in Europe. I really liked the boat-tail Riviera. Thanks for the content.
These were the cars when they came out. Still beautiful to this day and they look very comfortable to take on a long drive.
they are indeed wonderful traveling cars. I've taken mine on thousands of miles of road trips - still have it. The quality of the ride is one that you probably don't find as much anymore. Seats are amazingly comfortable.
Yess💯
@@KSguitarmusicI want one so bad.
@@KSguitarmusicas comfortable as a Park Ave or Lucern?
that riv is going to be a collectable, count on it! my son had a 4dr.regal and that engine is bullet proof!
The engine unfortunately had a major design flaw - see my reply below relative to the EGR tube issue. Mine died at around 60k miles when the engine flooded and hydrolocked due to the manifold being compromised. Except for that problem, otherwise I have to agree on it probably being one of GM's best at the time. Transmission didn't hold up either and had to be replaced. My 2nd (Jasper replacement) engine was a real dud - only lasted about 30k miles and then pushed a rod right through the block. Truly amazing that I still have this car after the thousands and thousands of $$ that I threw at it in the course of 27 years! If I didn't like the design of it so much I suspect I'd have traded it in years ago. Can't think of much engine / mechanical-wise that hasn't been replaced by now.
Really enjoyed your thorough review! Funny thing about the security system - haven't been able to use mine for years. Everytime I'd arm it the alarm would start going off after a half-hour or so.(typically happened while we were in church....it was like...yep...that's my car...again). So ever since that problem came about I lock the doors manually before closing them - never with the remote. I really want a new car (though contemplating keeping the Riviera) but don't see anything I like near as much as the design of this. Hate most of the new front grilles for one thing.
I will always love the 75-85 years. Felt like you could drive those things all day.
So little traffic in the right turn lane today!
I love that you start out with the weather report. Always give me a chuckle. Also LOVE the way you review cars. Keep 'em comin!
The very last ones were "Silver Arrows." I have a Regal GS that was a GM promo car for the PGA tour & SeaFair.
I have the series 2 with 185,000 and it’s just purring right along.
Changed the thermostat and flushed the radiator today and it was so easy to work on.
To me, I always see more than a subtle hint of Jaguar in the design language of the last generation Riviera.
I got pulled over once in my 99 riviera. The officer had never seen one before and said he thought it was a Jaguar!
Bill...you're a class act and the fact that you had an ' 85 Riviera proves it...
The design of these last generation Rivieras was amazing but if GM would have made it RWD they would be so much more fun and desirable!
I love that cars profile, that’s a beautiful car.
Wonderful car. I test drove one new in 1995 when I had my new Monte Carlo in for an oil change at the local GM dealership. Totally awesome!
We appreciate every VIDEO you upload. Thanks for the history lesson...
Loved every Riviera they made, yep, even this one...GM consistently got the Riviera right...
The last emperor of China also had a Buick...
Good evening Bill welcome back. Here in England we are having a heatwave 75F too hot for me. Glad the goats are leaving you alone along with the birds.
How can it be too hot for you when every home in England is air-conditioned?! We all know it's a great British tradition going back decades.
@@paulparoma air conditioning is having the doors and windows open, we British are not used to the hot weather
@@ronmccullock1407 1. I was being sarcastic
2. That would be "used to," not "use to."
Cheers.
Always liked this car. Reminds me of driving my dad back and forth from NY to Florida every fall and spring. When he took a snooze I pushed it, till the vibrations got to be too much.
My grandmother had an 04 Park Ave with the supercharger in black. Talk about a sleeper. Thing was amazing.
That Park was an awesome car.
I totally feel the same way, hate the alpha numeric names. I love 2dr personal luxury cars. This Riviera I absolutely adore. Almost bought one 20 years ago. Sadly the Monte Carlo, Riviera, Eldorado, Coronado and Grand Prix are all gone. This is a great example.
This was my favorite car at the autoshow when this style debuted. Great video Bill, Iove the reference pics when describing prior models and your knowledge behind their history. Only thing missing are the goats🐐🐐 lol. Thanks.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
These were super cool. The prior 7th gen that had that 9 inch CRT screen (way ahead of us time technologically) were awesome as well. Rivera has always been top notch since inception.
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
I have a 99 and it has been a fun car. Third Riviera I've owned. It's a pity that GM never released anything like this again.
All they make now is SUVs !! No thanks I'll pass !
Sell me one
First the Aurora, now this?! Thanks Papa Bill!!
Thank you so much for this video!
I never knew this car existed until I stumbled upon your video here, 3 months ago.
The vehicle's appearance was so large and striking, I instantly fell in love!
Today I purchased a 1996 (December 1995) Riviera with the supercharged 3800, and electric moon roof
Absolutely angel soft ride, sloshes like a waterbed over aggressive bumps/traintracks to ensure I don't get uncomfortable
I adore my new (old) Riviera, it's the SAME white as this one, has 186,xxx miles on it, and has some issues, but it still runs and drives well!
I only paid $900 for it!
I'm fixing it and making it my secondary daily
those 3800 motors are damn near bullet proof, i had a grand prix with one and it went around 250k miles before the transmission failed. hope it is still serving you well
Beautiful car, classic styling and a great drive train. I put 224,000 trouble free miles on a 3800 in an '01 Lesabre company car. We turned them in at 25,000 but the car was so great I bought it.
Dude, you really have an oratorical gift. I love these videos. I hated this Buick but you've made me appreciate it with it's rich history.
These are so cool, especially the rarer versions of this generation with a bench seat and a column shift!
The front end has always reminded me of the late 1950's Ferrari 250 TR. Glad you spotlighted this gen of Riv. It was Buick's dying breath as it was being choked out by GM HQ. I talked to one of the guys who worked in the Buick design studio a few years ago at Rt. 66 Raceway in Joliet Il no less. Quite a few points you brought up that would have made the car a classic; such as RWD, 2 door hdtp, more uniform body lines; were brought up quite a few times in their meetings. The reason why it wasn't allowed was directly due to the popularity and unbelievable performance of the GN. He said that at the design meeting for '97 when they were going to refresh the car; that in no uncertain terms "was the Riv going to have any more performance that the pedestrian sedan and the only thing they were to work on was comfort.". He said for about 3 months, they were basically "phoning in" styling upgrades to the head office. He said they were lucky to get away with adding the L67 but wanted it to have a 5-speed manual option to more closely mimic the European cars, but GM saw where that would lead; more HP. Since the GN was besting GM's performance monikers with ease; the Camaro, Firebird & Vettes & the fact that the insc was so darn cheap since everything was an option on the Regal line unlike the others as a specific performance model; GM would not allow it. Also near the middle end of the 97 model year, they were instructed to submit designs for a 4 door Riv based on the incoming Holden VF cars that were going to be rebadged for US sales. He said that was when everyone basically gave up and started looking to move to either different nameplates on GM or planning on taking early retirement. I though the Riv was a really good looking car, and I still do. I agree with the dash being bland. I would have done and entire wood laminated wood insert across the dash; including the door panels & down the center console like the first gen Riv. If you added chrome trim around the vents , it would also help to update the look and even a nav system that you mentioned; though I can't stand those things. I would have also had color matching inserts in the seats, front & back to match. I've had quite a few Buick's and I still kick myself for selling my 65 Riv GS w/Super Wildcat 465 in '85. I bought it for $750. Needed carbs rebuilt, trans rebuild, pinion bearing & seal, axle bearings & seals; but the rest of the car was in great condition & even the original interior had no rips or tears. Had it on the road after being down for the winter doing the repairs for only 3 months and was offered $4K cash at a stoplight a few blocks from home. I walked the 4 blocks and now I'd pull over and kick his butt for selling it.
Great to hear from Bill again hope the whiskey is still going down well.
These in all black with wider wheels are cold blooded looking. Still great styling even for the bubble era
This is one of the greatest all-time stream of consciousness spoken word pieces that just happens to have a car as its anchor point. I love cars, so I found my way to this channel recently, but now I want to make a playlist of these reviews. Bravo my good man! Keep this magic going please, and/or find somebody to just package these as podcasts.
These cars never get old to me. Any and every year this car still looks new too me!! No matter what comes out! i'm gonna get me one and get it flawless!
My uncle had one one these and in its day I thought it looked and went like a spaceship. I definitely noticed the "b" pillarless design back then. You also NEVER saw these cars and even less so today. I actually do think the design aged VERY well and still looks great. It was a luxury front drive car with a great engine for the time, no sports car at all.
Hey Bill, it will be 100+ degrees in Winnipeg on Friday. It was below freezing less than two weeks ago.
Love the weather reports and all the other funny commentary. Thanks from a chipper Canadian.
First time I saw one was on a commercial as a kid. I really couldn’t believe my eyes. We really were living in a properly modern era. Email, internet and 95 RIVIERA
I’ve had 5 of them… absolutely amazing driving cars. I’ve had them in every configuration.
This guy makes me see the beauty in the otherwise ordinary. I never even notice crap like this on the road but I now have an appreciation. Then again, this guy is a car salesman, and I would probably buy a model T if he showed it to me.
The Model T is a fine car...
I've always loved these. Thanks a lot of sharing, Bill.
I agree with you Bill, most Riviera models look great. I have always loved these Buick Riv models. I wish I had one from the 60's. Great video as usual sir!
I still remember how much room we had in the back of my sister's Alero Coupe. I loved the Olds interior in that car, even though the Alero was Malibu-derived. Hers was a loaded model, though. I think my favorite part was their logo. And inside on the radio, it said Oldsmobile. I haven't seen one in a few years.
You need to get a boattail to review. One of the nicest cars ever made imo
I'm one of those guys who didn't care for that styling. It's not Edsel-esc but the first generation Rivs were instant home runs and very difficult to follow up.
I believe he's done one already.
Some guy who goes to my highschool drives one of these, it’s super beat up and rusted, but I can tell it drives like a dream!
A beautiful car. I really appreciate the amount of research you did to present the history of the Riviera. The "raw chicken thigh" comment just added to the fun. Thanks for an enjoyable video.
Hello Bill. I enjoyed the video of the 99 Buick Riviera. My father drove an all black version of the Riviera in your video. When he would drive down to Florida from southeastern Pennsylvania , he mentioned that people were attracted to the looks of the car. Also, due to the weight of the car plus front wheel drive, it was an excellent car in the snow.
As for where the cup holders are in the rear seating area of the Riviera, I believe they are located in the arm rest that folds down in the backseat.
Looking forward to watching future and past videos.
Take care,
Stephen Brown
You're right, Bill about '79-'85 Rivs. They were FWD. I owned a rare '85 Riv T-type that had a 3.8 Turbo, FWD and was pretty quick, yet delivered great fuel economy.
That boat hustles up to 60 nice and quick. Love that 3800.
Excellent in the camaro Y87 manual package as well.
Had a few cars with it, only problem ever being ignition coil pack fail, which were cheap fixes.
I want to see that Pontiac G8 make sure you do that one bill. 😻😻😻
As an Aussie I'll second that.
I love the 71-73 Buick Riveria, one of my favorites.
Another fine review Bill. I agree with you. I want to love the lines on this thing, but it’s just got that, what I’ll call “90’s malaise” to steal from you. But instead of performance malaise, it was styling malaise. The entire decade has maybe a handful of notably good looking rides.
Out of everything that I can watch, I watch Bill and i love it👍🏻
When these things came out...my old man and I both said "what is *that*?" simultaneously. Cool vid!
I had a 1995 Super charged Riv. Bought it at gm carlise in 1997 for 8500 bucks. It was a 60k mile car loved it. Have to say it had the most comfortable seats of any car I have ever owned. No issues with this car ever. Traded it on a 1999 Eldorado in 2001. What a mistake Eldorado was bugged up bad stability control system. Dumped that car and traded it on a new 2003 Tbird. Still have my Tbird. People seem to bash the last tbird but I love mine! Bought my mom an 1989 Rivera which she drove until her passing. She never had any issues with her car. Those 3800 motors are great just watch out for when GM changed to dex cool heard they screwed up and had some issues with dex cool getting into the motor.
100 percent agree with the statement that cars with real names are soooooo much better
In my 20’s I had a ‘95 with the series 1 3800 supercharged. It was extremely comfortable and good looking, black with tan leather. My favorite features were exterior and interior styling. Interior had leds hidden the grab handles on door that’s only purpose was to place a spotlight on the window switch. So Elegant. The independent climate control on passenger side with personal vents and wrap around dash were also favorites of mine. My plan was to drop it a few inches and put Cadillac DTS wheels with white walls but sadly my brother wrecked it before I got a chance.
Issues were the clear coat peeling and overheating due to the weird way you had to bleed the cooling system.
There are one or two prototypes with the NorthStar or ShortStar v8 i forget which one. I saw one on sale on EBay probably 15 years ago.
A friend of mine had one and I loved it. Finally a Riv that was big again. Another friend who preferred the Eldorado quipped that it resembled a turd. Totally killed it for me. I enjoyed the fact that Olds had a version in the Aurora.
Great cars! I had a Bonneville SSEi, LOVED IT, rock reliable, everything always worked ( tough on brakes, though) had 216000 on it. Best engine ever.
This is one of the only Buick’s I can actually see myself driving LOL
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
I used to work with a gentleman that called me “Lil Mama” that had one of the ‘90s models of this car back when I was 19. I barely knew him but always thought his car was cool and unique and nobody else in town had the same car. He never blasted music out of it and I only ever saw him drive it safely. He seemed like a good dude who loved his car. I hope he is still driving it.
Id love to have this car.. it is a beauty. I had a 95 that was an old ladies car, and it was really clean, with woodgrain dash, well done woodgrain.. I miss it :)
I had a friend in the mid 90s do a custom, lowered and CHOPPED boat tail Riviera in Plum Purple. It was AWESOME.
Thanks Bill, Australian GM Holden used the 3800 V6 in the very popular Commodore. Only a small percentage were supercharged.
In NZ I've got the early buick 3.8 in my ute. It's done about 400,000kms still runs mint!
I love all your vids but this one is so awesome!
Would love to see you present an 80s Grand National - still to my mind one of the coolest all-American vehicles ever made. Mullet optional ….
Wrong. Mullet is mandatory
@@HipsterDoofus100 yes. Mullet is mandatory to own this car.
I started watching your show because you were sponsoring or sponsoring a car I like. I continued watching it because I enjoy your rhetoric. Keep up the good work!
This reminds me of my former 2002 Buick Century 3.1 liter V6. Buick’s back in the days were to me the most reliable & powerful engines.
3.8 engine is one of GMs best, easy maintenance, cheap parts smooth running....
Yup they can take a helluva beating
@@e46m54nissansr20937 I had a 3.8 in my old Bonneville. The car was stolen and trashed. The thieves had even broken one of the engine mounts. Insurance fixed everything and that engine ran 8 more years with no issue.
Tim McMullen lol strong motor
3.8 and the LS motors are two of the top engines they ever produced
I had hoped this was the case, but then unfortunately fell victim to the major issue with this engine, which was when the EGR tube that comes up into the upper intake burns the plastic part of the manifold around the pipe. It melts and causes the coolant channel in the intake to rupture thereby flooding the cylinders with coolant causing hydrolock. It happened after a 4,000 mile road trip, thankfully close to home when the engine tanked. Then, a replacement 3800 I put in didn't last very long either. Threw a rod right through the block (most dramatic truly). 3rd engine, which is still in the car, is from a '99 LeSabre and is undisputably the best engine the car has ever had.
My first car was a ‘96 lesabre with a 3800. Absolutely adored that car. Super easy to work on and drove like a dream. I will say though that the starter motor is almost impossible to replace without lifting the engine.
Bill you are the man. Your videos make my day! Brilliant, hilarious, informative 👏
This is a really clean example with nice neutral colors and no crappy add-on fabric roof (dealers suck!). I'm actually quite okay with the power seat switches down there on the seat base - that's vintage GM and Ford, and since the buttons "resemble" the seats, it's pretty easy to figure out. It was only an issue when you couldn't squeeze your hand between the doors and seats on some cars.
YAY!! Bill is back !! Now THIS is my kind of car!!
ua-cam.com/video/Um87w49iFnk/v-deo.html GM tweaked the imperfections out of the last year including electronics a 1998 alternator will not fit a 1999 same with mounts engine and trans. I have 4 for sale less than 100 exist mine are completely restored to better than factory new 3800 engines BEST engine in past 20 years with intercoolers. Materials today are far better than 20 years ago. Want a car that is fun to drive again get in touch Fort Lauderdale Florida NO SALT cars. make a commission
@@therealDavidPressler what kind of a price?
@@Nunofurdambiznez $14,000 your choice
@@therealDavidPressler I'd have to see them in person before I made a decision, of course.
ua-cam.com/video/OqM_p2peEd8/v-deo.html
I thoroughly enjoyed watching this video. Thank you for sharing that wonderful Buick survivor
I'm three minutes into the video and I want to give it another like.
I have a 1998 Riviera with the same color combination. 25k miles in pristine condition. I’ve had my share of great cars and horrible cars over my 59 years, and I’d have to put this right up there with the top 2 or 3 best I’ve had. It’s bigger than you think when you see it in person. Very solid in every way, too. Smooth, but a sporty ride, especially for a Buick. Just a great looking and superb riding car. It’s a real CAR!
Nice review.thank you! The car grows on you, especially when you look at all the horrid designs out today.
I was thinking that very thing.
Appearance & styling are so subjective, and although I can see the perspective of the 'critical eye', as the reviewer was talking about the car's looks, I was going over the designs of the last ~10-15 years and thinking _"yup--this is a classy looking car"._
@@be5952 Be
Great video! I remember when I was a kid my dad took my brother and I with him to a dealership to look at cars. This Aurora was brand new in the showroom. I got into it and remember thinking it looked like it was inspired by Star Trek. I instantly fell in love with it. They also had a brand new Mitsubishi 3000 GT and Subaru SVX. What an incredible era. My dad ended up buying a brand new 1999 Subaru Impreza 2door with the black cherry paint. What a great day with Dad.
Wanted one so bad back then. Still looks modern.
Modern cars look like they were designed by an origami artist. I will take the Riv with it's one simple, elegant bone line. Unfortunately you do have to be up close to the car to appreciate it.
Love your Humor, keep up the good videos
Had a burgundy 96' Supercharged. Last great GM vehicle I owned.
I had a 97 Riv. It was the best car I ever owned and the one I loved the most. I rue the day I traded it for a Cadillac CTS, but the Cadillac fit my needs better at the time and the Buick had about 150k miles. So it was time. This car has it all fast, stylish and good on gas. Thanks for the memories. I think the tires limited the top speed. 👍
After it took the ’94 model year off, the Riviera returned with its eighth generation in 1995. It transitioned to the G-body platform that was used for the large Buick Park Avenue of 1997. Riviera’s wheelbase grew to 113.8 inches (from 108), and overall length increased from a paltry 187.8 inches to a more proper 207 inches. It was also a couple of inches wider and taller than the outgoing model. VALUE of anything you have what it cost to replace it try replacing a 1999 Riviera with the toy cars of today and see how much you will pay! FEW computers have 4 to sell $12,000 BEST touring coupe USA ever built
Beautiful car, one of GM's best looking 2 door coupes. When you shut the door after opening hood, such a solid sound, a good clunk.
Selling my 1985 Riviera, last of the classic Rivs. (Trailer coming next week) The last generation Rivs were sleepers.
They weren't sleeper's lol. If you're meaning fast, not even the T Type turbo 85 Riv was fast but more like quick for a big car it's size and not many of those are out there. The 3.8 2 barrel is a dog and the other option 307 olds is okish. I owned a 83 Toronado with the 307 and 4speed automatic and the best I could say is it was comfortable, stylish, and floated. Definitely not a sleeper though.
@@garyfleming4101 sleepers are fast and unassuming