1966 Buick Riviera Hardtop

The production Riviera was introduced on October 4, 1962, as a 1963 model, its distinctive body shell was unique to the marque, unusual for a GM product. For 1966, the headlamps remained concealed, but now pivoted behind the grille when not in use, and they were once again horizontally arranged. Inside, the four place cabin with front and rear bucket seats and center console were replaced by a choice of bucket seats or conventional bench seats as standard equipment, making the Riviera a full six passenger car for the first time. Sales for 1966 increased to 45,308, a new record.

For consignment, a 1966 Buick Riviera hardtop that was lovingly cared for and owned for 32 years before health issues resulted in a few years of neglect in the garage, a story that is sadly all too common here at Classic Auto Mall. There are several year models of Rivieras that are unmatched in their uniqueness, certainly 1963 through 1966, and of course the early 1970's boattail versions. Here's a very original 1966 that is ready to pass the baton.

Exterior
Inspired by Bill Mitchell's love of hand built London coaches, the second generation Riviera features a classy body shell that conveys a sense of style and sophistication perfectly befitting its exotic name. Single stage Silver Mist paint covers the car and has lost some luster over the years, but the body is straight and imperfections are few. Original chrome and stainless, which exhibit minimal signs of wear, show very well but are not without their flaws. The front fascia is dramatic and exciting as the fenders create outstretched points, sharply turning into a slotted grille that hides the marker lights and the pattern continues on the center grille that effectively hides the presence of headlights behind doors barely visible in the horizontal design. The black vinyl top is in excellent condition and terminates in back with eight flow through vents which expels air from the interior package shelf as part of Buick's Circulaire system. More horizontal lines become the focal point of the rear, with long tail lights that fit pointed rear fenders that mirror, less dramatically, the front. 15-inch Buick Rallye wheels look fantastic surrounded by narrow white wall tires and we note the exhaust tips exit in front of the rear wheels in what appears to be the only external modification. Flaws include a dent in the rocker panel, various rock chips and scratches, and a ding in the metal wheel opening trim. We also note some color difference between front body panels and the rest of the car.

Interior
Swinging the doors and we have a fine mix of smooth shiny black vinyl covering molded armrests and wide insets of chrome, polished aluminum trimmings and black carpeting on the lowers. Housed here are the power window switches, door actuators, and mirror joystick. Plenty of power conveniences befitting the luxury feel of the exterior, but still maintaining its sporty styling. Low back black vinyl bucket seats with tuck and roll stitching with smooth bolsters are noted for the front passengers and appear in excellent condition. The rear has a luxurious bench in matching style to the front bench that stretches comfortably from door to door and includes a centrally located speaker in the upper. The original angled dash is in black with black padded top while futuristic square gauges lined up around a barrel rolling speedometer are noted along with an AM/FM radio. Fronting the dash is a 3 spoke steering wheel with Buick lettering in the center. The center console is adorned with faux wood covering which matches the horseshoe shifter that straddles the gear indicator. Black loop style carpet is in nice condition and the light colored perforated headliner is intact but shows some discoloration while the visors look good.

Drivetrain
Under the hood is the original 425ci Nailhead V8, topped with a 4-barrel carburetor, rated at 340 horsepower. An automatic Super Turbine 400 3-speed transmission is attached, and spins a 3.07 rear axle, and all looks very original and driver quality under the hood. Power drum brakes occupy all four wheels.

Undercarriage
Driver quality conditions also describe the underside where surface rust is present along with residual fluid on the transmission housing and notable oil sling present in the area of the pinion shaft and rear U-joint. Extra grease build up on the steering and wheel components in front is noted and whether that's from an overzealous grease gun or a leak needs determination. The dual exhaust looks good and includes a pair of Cherrybomb mufflers that intersect the pipes before they exit to the sides. Coil spring suspension is housed up front while a 3-link with coil springs and a panhard bar is out back.

Drive-Ability
A quick starter, and after a warm up it was off to the test loop where the exhaust is notably louder than stock configuration, but not unbearable. At 4,200 pounds, this is a heavy beast, so 340 horsepower is tempered somewhat, but that doesn't mean the car is slow. In fact, it has good acceleration, handles like a dream, and is a nice interior in which to spend time, one hand on the wheel, the other on the horseshoe shifter. And bonus, everything functioned as it should save for the AC blowing warm and the brakes, while operational could use some attention to bring things up to snuff.

This Riviera is a phenomenal classic. Its killer Nailhead V8 will cruise effortlessly at will, and its slick body and first class interior are ready to garner serious stares. Rivs will always be cool whether it's cruise night, the local BCA show, or just headed out for a Sunday drive. Drive this one as is or take it to the next level with some TLC and perhaps some two stage paint.

494876H944612

4-Buick
94-Riviera V8
87-2 Door Hardtop Sport Coupe
6-1966
H-Flint, MI Assy Plant
944612-Sequential Unit Number

TRIM TAG

04A-1st Week April
ST 66 49487-1966 Riviera 2 Door Hardtop Sport Coupe
BODY EUC203295-Euclid Body #
TR 658B-Black Vinyl
PAINT W2-Silver Mist, Black Top
E-Tinted Glass All
X-Power Windows
T-Power Bucket Seat
S-Unknown
2K-AC
G-Console
R-Rear Speaker
4F-Comfort & Convenience Group
5K-Unknown

Classic Auto Mall is home to more than 1,000 classic and collectible vehicles for sale via consignment in a climate controlled 336,000-square foot showroom (that's more than 8 acres!). The largest single location consignment dealer of classic and collectible vehicles in the country is located in Morgantown, Pennsylvania, just 1-hour west of Philadelphia off Exit 298 of the I-76 Pennsylvania Turnpike. For more information visit www.classicautomall.com or call us at (888) 227-0914. Contact us anytime for more information or to come see the vehicle in person.

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