The name Riviera is Italian for coastline and was chosen to honor the allure and elegance of the French Riviera. It first entered the Buick line in 1949 with a 2 door pillarless hardtop described as stunningly smart. This particular example is a 4 owner beauty that is completely original except for the radiator core. It was finished in a gorgeous two-tone Teal Blue with a Beach White top which is still completely original with no repairs or touch-ups. The Grey and Green Tweed interior is completely original as well and in amazing condition. The body has no dents, no signs of body work and the paint is 100% original. The interior door panels, head liners and upholstery have no rips, tears, worn spots or other issues and the chrome shows amazingly well for an unrestored 72 year old car. It is equipped with its original 263ci 8 cylinder Fireball engine famous for its valve in head design and hydraulic valve lifters. The original owner passed in the 80’s when his brother took possession of the car. It remained in AZ until the 90’s when it was sold to the 3rd owner who is a collector in CO. The current owner purchased it in 2006 with just under 29,000 miles on it. Since his acquisition he added a set of correct 760 15” tires, overhauled the brakes with brass sleeves in the wheel cylinders and the master cylinder and used reclined brake shoes from Whitepost Restoration. The original tube radio works perfectly and also comes with an extra set of tubes. You will also find the original owner’s manual and all of the original glove compartment tags. All of the other maintenance is 100% up to date, everything works as it should except for the clock and dash lights which need a new switch (which is included) and the car drives as if it were new. In 2022 it was entered into the Buick Club of America Chicago Buick Nationals where it scored 390 out of 400 points for being original with the 10 point reduction due to the fact it did not have its original radiator core. As a result it was awarded with a very rare Elite plaque for being so original. If you have been looking for an unrestored Riviera you will be hard pressed to find one with as much prominence so if you like what you see we urge you to contact us right away!
