The 1983 Buick Riviera stands as a remarkable example of luxury preservation. This particular coupe spent significant time within the prestigious Gilmore Car Museum. It currently shows a mere 12,000 miles on the odometer. Finished in Brown Metallic with a matching landau vinyl roof, it represents the peak of personal luxury from its era. This car offers a rare chance to see a nearly new vehicle from over forty years ago.
Distinctive Styling and Rare Factory Options
This 1983 Buick Riviera carries several high-end features that were quite exclusive during its production. The bodywork is accented by a Dark Briar landau vinyl roof and an Astroroof glass sunroof. Chrome bumpers and trim remain bright, reflecting the climate-controlled storage this vehicle enjoyed. While some light checking is noted on the hood, the overall appearance remains remarkably close to its original showroom state. These details define the premium aesthetic Buick was known for.
Chassis Engineering and Suspension Refreshes
The ride quality of the 1983 Buick Riviera was famous for being smooth and composed. It features a four-wheel independent suspension system and electronic leveling control at the rear. To ensure safety, the dealer replaced the brake master cylinder and hoses in 2018. More recently, the rear shocks were replaced in May 2024 to maintain that signature cloud-like feel. New Uniroyal narrow-whitewall tires are mounted on the 15-inch steel wheels with classic wire covers.
Meticulously Maintained Interior Luxury
Opening the door reveals a cabin trimmed in plush Dark Briar cloth that looks virtually untouched. Woodgrain trim accents the dashboard and door panels for a sophisticated touch. The interior includes a Concert Sound audio system and an AM/FM/cassette stereo for period-correct entertainment. Furthermore, the air conditioning system has been converted to R134a refrigerant for better reliability. This ensures the cabin remains cool while you enjoy the soft, power-adjustable front seating.
Functional Updates and Driver Controls
The driver interacts with a two-spoke steering wheel mounted on a tilting and telescoping column. A horizontally sweeping speedometer clearly displays the low mileage of this 1983 Buick Riviera. Technicians repaired the cruise control system in June 2024 with a new transducer to ensure functionality. Every switch for the power windows and locks operates as intended, reflecting the car’s museum history. The headliner and sun visors were also replaced to keep the interior looking fresh.
V8 Powertrain Performance and Specs
Reliable power comes from a 5.0-liter V8 engine that delivers smooth and quiet acceleration. This engine was factory rated at 140 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. It sends power to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transaxle for effortless highway cruising. Maintenance records show recent drive belt replacements and fresh fluids as of August 2025. The alternator and exhaust components were also updated to keep the car roadworthy for its next owner.
Summary of the Preserved Riviera
This 1983 Buick Riviera is much more than just a low-mileage used car. It is a genuine piece of automotive history that has been cared for by museum professionals. The inclusion of the original build sheet and service records adds significant value for any serious collector. Its combination of rare options like the Astroroof and the 5.0L V8 makes it a standout. This Buick remains a prime example of why the Riviera was a leader in the luxury segment.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
