This 1964 Buick Riviera, known as “Lorraine,” is a stunning example of automotive artistry. Born from the skilled hands of renowned customizers like Brad Masterson, who apprenticed under legends George Barris and Bill Hines, this Riviera has been meticulously transformed over a 12-year period. Featured in Car Kulture Deluxe and Ol’ Skool Rodz magazines, this vehicle embodies the spirit of classic automotive customizing, reminiscent of the era of Dean Jeffries, Gene Winfield, Ed Roth, and George Barris.
The extensive modifications are immediately apparent. The roof has been dramatically chopped by 5½ inches, while the front fenders and rear quarter panels have been extended by 4 inches, altering the car’s profile and giving it a sleek, elongated look. The quarter-panel ends have been re-angled to complement the slope of the rear window, creating a cohesive and dynamic design. The original hood ornament has been removed, and the hood itself extended by 4 inches in the center, further emphasizing the car’s length. Custom-fabricated bezels house single 1966 Cadillac upper headlights with center blades, while a reshaped and shortened 1957 DeSoto front bumper bar serves as the grille, sitting above a new front pan. At the rear, the 1964 taillight areas have been filled, and a 1965 Riviera rear bumper with modified taillights and a gravel pan has been installed. The side scoop area behind the doors has also been redesigned, and the firewall smoothed for a cleaner look. A new windshield and side windows were custom-cut to fit the chopped top, and the vent wings were reworked. The car is bathed in a custom-mixed Tamco Paint color dubbed “Lorraine Green.” All chrome, stainless trim, and aluminum headlight blades have been meticulously redone.
Under the hood, the original engine has been replaced with a non-original 425-cu.in. OHV V8, bored .020-inch over and rebuilt with Egge Machine parts. Offenhauser finned rocker covers and air cleaner add a touch of classic hot-rod style. A Holley 650-cfm carburetor and MSD electronic ignition enhance performance, while an Alan Grove Components accessory drive system keeps everything running smoothly. The engine breathes through a dual exhaust system with a Waldron dual-crossflow muffler. An aluminum U.S. Radiator and Maradyne dual electric fans ensure efficient cooling. A new GearStar 700-R4 four-speed automatic transmission, requiring an adapter from Bendtsen’s Speed Gems, has been installed, and the stock Riviera shifter modified to work with the new transmission. A rebuilt and balanced driveshaft from Dynotech Engineering Services transfers power to the rear wheels.
The interior has also received attention, with restored instruments, a custom two-tone steering wheel mounted on a chrome Ididit tilt steering column, and refreshed seat foam, dash pad, trim, and other items from OPGI. The stock Riviera vinyl seat covers have been reimagined in a custom white and green color scheme. A green carpet and a fabricated headliner complete the interior transformation. Marbleized drum wrap instrument panel and console inserts add a unique touch. A Custom Autosound AM/FM stereo provides entertainment.
The chassis has been upgraded with a RideTech Air Ride system, and the rest of the suspension has been rebuilt. The power drum braking system has been refurbished, and power steering is present. Truespoke 15×6 50-spoke chrome wire wheels wrapped in Coker whitewall radial tires complete the look.
This Riviera represents a significant investment of time, skill, and resources. It’s a rolling testament to the enduring appeal of classic American car design and the boundless creativity of custom car builders.
Summary:
- Custom 1964 Buick Riviera, nicknamed “Lorraine”
- Featured in Car Kulture Deluxe and Ol’ Skool Rodz magazines
- Extensive body modifications, including a chopped top and extended fenders
- Custom paint, trim, and interior
- Upgraded 425-cu.in. V8 engine and 700-R4 automatic transmission
- Air Ride suspension and other chassis upgrades
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general knowledge and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended as an endorsement or recommendation for any specific vehicle. For more information on this specific car, you can reach out to the seller.
Source: hemmings.com
This article was crafted with assistance from Gemini
