The Details:

The 1964 Buick Riviera is celebrated as a hallmark of American automotive design, seamlessly blending luxury with performance.

History:

Introduced in 1963, the Riviera was Buick’s entry into the personal luxury car segment, aiming to compete with models like the Ford Thunderbird. The 1964 model retained the sleek “Coke bottle” styling of its predecessor, characterized by its flowing lines and minimalistic chrome accents. Notably, the 1964 Riviera featured a new “R” emblem on the hood and taillights, replacing the previous Buick crests. This model year also marked the transition from the Twin Turbine Dynaflow transmission to the more advanced Super Turbine 400 three-speed automatic, enhancing the vehicle’s performance and efficiency.

Specifications:

  •   Engine Options:

     •   Standard Engine: 425 cubic inch (7.0L) “Wildcat 465” V8, producing 340 horsepower at 4,400 RPM and 465 lb-ft of torque at 2,800 RPM.

     •   Optional Engine: “Super Wildcat” 425 cubic inch V8 with dual four-barrel carburetors, delivering 360 horsepower.

  •   Transmission:

     •   3-speed Super Turbine 400 automatic transmission.

  •   Dimensions:

     •   Wheelbase: 117.0 inches.

     •   Overall Length: 208.0 inches.

     •   Width: 76.3 inches.

     •   Height: 53.2 inches.

     •   Curb Weight: Approximately 4,000 lbs.

  •   Performance:

     •   0-60 mph: Approximately 8 seconds.

     •   Top Speed: Around 130 mph.

  •   Fuel Capacity:

     •   20-gallon fuel tank.

Notable Features:

  •   The Riviera’s design emphasized a clean and elegant aesthetic, with hidden headlights concealed behind fender grilles and a distinctive absence of traditional Buick “portholes.”

  •   The interior offered a luxurious four-place cabin with front bucket seats, a center console, and real walnut inserts on the doors and dashboard, enhancing the premium feel.

  •   Standard equipment included power steering and power brakes, with options for power windows, air conditioning, and a tilt steering wheel, catering to the luxury expectations of its clientele.

In total, Buick produced 37,658 units of the 1964 Riviera, reflecting its popularity and the brand’s commitment to delivering a blend of performance, luxury, and distinctive styling.

The 1964 Buick Riviera remains a highly regarded classic, symbolizing a pivotal moment in automotive design and engineering during the 1960s.