Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com
Rare and Potent Riviera with Gran Sport Package: The 1965 Buick Riviera was already a statement of sophisticated style, but the addition of the Gran Sport package elevated its performance credentials. This particular Riviera is one of only 3,354 examples produced in 1965 equipped with this coveted option, which brought a potent 425ci Nailhead V8 featuring dual four-barrel carburetors, a specially tuned exhaust system, an upgraded three-speed automatic transmission, and a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction. Finished in a striking red with a contrasting black vinyl roof over a refined black vinyl interior, this Gran Sport rides on distinctive 15-inch Rally wheels and boasts a host of desirable features, including split front and rear seats, air conditioning, cruise control, and power-operated side and vent windows. Refurbished prior to its acquisition by the current owner in 2018, this Riviera Gran Sport has received subsequent attention, including resealing the speedometer gear housing and replacing the power steering hoses. It is now offered on dealer consignment with comprehensive service records and a clean Arizona title.
Flame Red Elegance with Gran Sport Distinction: Originally finished in the vibrant Flame Red (paint code RR), this Riviera was repainted during a refurbishment completed under previous ownership, ensuring its bold presence remains captivating. The exterior is characterized by a unique stylized “R” hood ornament and concealed stacked headlights, signature design elements of the Riviera. Further refined details include a remote-controlled driver-side mirror, a power antenna, a stylish black vinyl roof, gleaming chrome bumpers, dual exhaust outlets hinting at its performance, and prominent Gran Sport badging signifying its enhanced capabilities. While some minor scratches in the finish were touched up in August 2018, the overall presentation remains impressive.
Rally Wheels, Upgraded Steering, and Power Braking: This Riviera Gran Sport rides on classic 15-inch Rally wheels fitted with 225/75 Nexen white-line tires, with a full-size spare stowed conveniently in the trunk. The driving experience is enhanced by power-assisted steering, providing effortless maneuverability. Braking is managed by power-assisted front and rear drum brakes, a standard setup for the era. Maintenance records indicate replacement power steering hoses were installed in January 2022, and a thorough brake fluid flush was performed in January 2024, ensuring reliable operation of these systems.
Luxurious Black Vinyl Interior with Comfort Amenities: The interior of this Riviera Gran Sport offers a comfortable and refined environment, featuring front and rear bucket seats upholstered in black vinyl, reportedly redone to maintain a fresh appearance. Elegant woodgrain trim accents the dashboard, center console, and door panels, adding a touch of classic luxury. Notable interior appointments include a power-adjustable driver’s seat for personalized comfort, effective air conditioning to maintain a pleasant cabin temperature, cruise control for relaxed highway driving, a push-button AM/FM radio for entertainment, a rear-seat speaker for enhanced audio, a rear window defroster for improved visibility, and the convenience of power-operated side and vent windows.
Driver-Focused Cockpit with Unknown Total Mileage: The two-spoke steering wheel is mounted on a convenient tilting column, framing an analog clock and a 140-mph speedometer. A combination gauge provides essential information, including a fuel-level readout and warning lights for oil pressure, coolant temperature, and amperage. The five-digit odometer currently displays 32k miles, with approximately 1k miles added under the current owner’s stewardship. Notably, the speedometer gear housing was resealed in January 2022, and the ignition switch was replaced in March 2022. The selling dealer indicates that the total actual mileage of the vehicle is unknown. The current Arizona title shows a 130k-mile odometer reading, adding to the uncertainty of the true mileage.
Nailhead Powerhouse with Dual Quads: The heart of this Riviera Gran Sport is the formidable 425ci Nailhead V8 engine, a Buick legend renowned for its torque. Equipped with dual four-barrel carburetors as part of the Gran Sport package, this engine was factory rated at an impressive 360 horsepower and a substantial 465 lb-ft of torque. Recent service in January 2024 included a routine oil change, a coolant flush, and the replacement of the thermostat, ensuring the engine operates optimally. The engine serial number stamp is available for inspection, and additional identification numbers are documented in the gallery.
Upgraded Automatic Transmission and Limited-Slip: Power from the potent Nailhead V8 is efficiently routed to the rear wheels through a Super Turbine 400 three-speed automatic transmission, an upgraded unit specified with the Gran Sport package for enhanced performance and durability. A limited-slip differential further optimizes traction, allowing the Riviera Gran Sport to effectively put its power down. The transmission pan was resealed, and the fluids for both the transmission and the differential were flushed in January 2022 as part of ongoing maintenance.
Summary:
- Rare 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport (one of 3,354 produced).
- 425ci Nailhead V8 engine with dual four-barrel carburetors (360 HP / 465 lb-ft).
- Upgraded Super Turbine 400 three-speed automatic transmission.
- Limited-slip differential.
- Finished in red with a black vinyl roof over black vinyl upholstery.
- 15-inch Rally wheels.
- Air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, power seats.
- Service records available.
Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of any vehicle.
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