Initially envisioned as the "La Salle II," the Buick Riviera was a personal-luxury model based on the General Motors XP-715 concept car styled by Ned Nickles under the direction of GM design chief Bill Mitchell. Based on a shortened and narrowed Buick frame, the stylish Riviera featured smartly tailored bodylines including "knife-edge" design cues inspired by contemporary Rolls-Royce models. When Cadillac management wasn't interested, Buick took over the project, renamed it 'Riviera,' and commenced production for 1963.

Powering the Riviera was Buick's famed "Nailhead" V-8 engine and mechanicals included massive Al-Fin drum brakes, quick-ratio power steering and sophisticated underpinnings, resulting in one of the best-handling and performing American luxury cars of the era. The Riviera was highly acclaimed for its handsome styling on both sides of the Atlantic and a strong seller during its first three production years as a highly desirable alternative to Ford's Thunderbird and Chrysler's "Letter Series" 300.  

Formerly part of a noted collection, this Riviera from the inaugural 1963 model year is a particularly special example, being an unrestored "survivor" in exceptionally original and unrestored condition. Retaining the factory-original Regal Black paint finish and 1963-only Black leather upholstery, this first-year Riviera is simply a benchmark example of Buick's game-changing personal-luxury model. Performance is heightened with this Riviera's optional 340-horsepower, 425 cubic-inch "Nailhead" V-8 engine, paired with a Super Turbine automatic transmission. Other highly desirable options include A/C, a 4-way power front seat, power windows, twin horns, and GM's space-age Autronic Eye automatic headlight dimmer. Best of all, this Riviera from the inaugural model year is now offered with under 30k original miles. Be sure to contact us today to see this beautifully presented and highly original 1960s icon, get full details, and prepare to make it yours for the spring and summer driving and show season!