Rare Drop-Top: 1983 Buick Riviera Convertible V8

Rare Drop-Top: 1983 Buick Riviera Convertible V8

Full details & bid : bringatrailer.com

The 1983 Buick Riviera convertible marked a return to open-top motoring for the personal luxury coupe, a body style that had been absent from the Riviera lineup for several years. These convertibles were produced in limited numbers, with approximately 1,750 examples built for the model year, making them a relatively rare find today. This particular 1983 Buick Riviera convertible, finished in white over a striking red leather interior, has been recently acquired and undergone significant servicing, ensuring its readiness for enjoyable cruising. Powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine and featuring a host of comfort and convenience options, this Riviera offers a blend of classic styling and open-air enjoyment.

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Smooth V8 Performance: This 1983 Buick Riviera convertible is powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Factory rated at 140 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque, this engine provides smooth and adequate power for comfortable cruising and relaxed driving. Recent maintenance under the current ownership includes the replacement of the starter motor and powertrain mounts, ensuring reliable operation. Power is delivered to the front wheels through a four-speed automatic transaxle, offering ease of use and smooth gear changes. The seller also reports that a transmission fluid service has been performed, along with the replacement of exhaust system components and a CV shaft.

Classic Convertible Styling: Finished in White (code 11), this Riviera convertible features a matching white convertible soft top, providing a clean and elegant appearance whether the top is up or down. The conversion to a convertible was performed by the American Sunroof Company (ASC) when the cars were new. Exterior features include quad rectangular headlights, a hallmark of Buick styling in the early 1980s, along with chrome trim, Riviera badging, an automatic power antenna, and power-operated side mirrors. The window motors are reported to have been replaced in 2025. The car rides on 15-inch 10-spoke wheels fitted with 215/75 Dunlop narrow whitewall tires, maintaining a classic look. The seller notes a tear in the right side of the convertible top.

Red Leather Comfort: The interior of this Riviera convertible features a luxurious red leather upholstery on the split front bench and the rear bench seats, creating a striking contrast with the white exterior. Comfort and convenience features include a power-adjustable driver’s seat, power windows and locks, an AM/FM/cassette stereo for classic tunes, and cruise control for relaxed highway driving. The car is equipped with air conditioning, although the seller notes that it does not blow cold. Other interior details include a foggy rearview mirror, a missing sun visor clip, and a glovebox that occasionally comes open.

Recent Servicing and Unknown Mileage: The two-spoke steering wheel has a leather cover and is mounted to a tilting and telescoping steering column. It fronts a horizontally sweeping 85-mph speedometer, a fuel-level gauge, and a gear indicator. The five-digit odometer shows 10k miles, with approximately 250 miles added under current ownership. Notably, the speedometer servo and cable were replaced in 2025. The total mileage is unknown, and a 2004 Carfax report entry indicates a potential odometer rollover. The car is equipped with four-wheel independent suspension and electronic leveling control at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. Stopping power is provided by power-assisted disc brakes at all four corners. Recent service work under current ownership includes the replacement of the master cylinder, idler arm, Pitman arm, shocks, brake pads, brake rotors, and ball joints, addressing key braking, steering, and suspension components. The battery and freeze plugs have also been replaced. The Carfax report is free of accident or damage entries but does show the potential odometer rollover and a Gross Polluter designation in 2008.

Summary:

  • 1983 Buick Riviera convertible, one of approximately 1,750 produced.
  • Powered by a 5.0-liter V8 engine with a four-speed automatic transaxle.
  • Finished in white over red leather upholstery with a white convertible top.
  • Equipped with power-adjustable driver’s seat, power windows and locks, and cruise control.
  • Recent servicing includes replacement of braking, steering, and suspension components, starter, and powertrain mounts.
  • Odometer shows 10k miles, but a potential rollover is noted in the Carfax report.

Disclaimer: Information provided is for general informational purposes only and is based on available details. The total mileage of this vehicle is unknown, and a potential odometer rollover has been reported. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of the vehicle’s condition and history.

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