1979 Buick Riviera

This vehicle is located at our Indianapolis facility - 2461 Reeves Rd #194, Plainfield, IN 46168



The 1979 Buick Riviera was built during a time when GM placed a strong emphasis on combining comfort, elegance, and road presence into its luxury line. This example is powered by the larger 5.7-liter Oldsmobile V8, regarded by many enthusiasts as one of the most dependable and well-rounded GM motors of its era. The odometer shows fewer than 22,000 miles, and while mileage claims on cars of this age can sometimes raise eyebrows, the exceptionally well-preserved condition of the interior immediately supports its accuracy. The history behind this Riviera also helps explain the low miles and excellent state of preservation.

Finished in a striking two-tone blue combination Glacier Blue on top and Nautilus Blue along the lower body the Riviera wears its late-1970s style proudly. This pairing of light and medium blue highlights the Rivieras elegant profile, with its squared-off lines, long hood, and distinctive proportions that made it one of the most stylish luxury coupes of its day. The paint is largely original, with only the hood refinished due to a small spot of rust and new fiberglass filler panels painted and installed between the bumpers and frame. These were factory weak points on Riviera, Eldorado, and Toronado models, and the replacement was done to restore a clean and complete appearance.

This Buick comes with outstanding documentation, including the Original Order Form, Original Invoice, and even the 1979 Buick Riviera sales brochure. The current owner is only the second caretaker. The first owner, a farmer, purchased the car new for his wife. After she passed away, the Riviera was only driven occasionally on sentimental dates like anniversaries and birthdays. Eventually, the car was parked in the family barn, where it remained quietly stored from 1995 until it was rediscovered about five years ago. The last registration and license plate from 1995 still accompany the car, further adding to its authenticity and history.

The interior is remarkably well preserved and presents as a true time capsule. From the plush seating to the original GM factory carpeted floor mats, it showcases the kind of preservation that immediately convinces onlookers of the cars mileage. Mechanically, the Riviera has been given thoughtful updates to ensure reliability, including new belts, hoses, spark plugs, fresh transmission and radiator flushes, brake service, new tires with correct white sidewalls, and a replacement air compressor for the factory air conditioning. Power features such as the windows, seats, locks, and trunk release remain in working order, reflecting the quality of Buick engineering during this era. Since being brought out of storage, only about 1,600 additional miles have been added.

The Riviera is a standout at local shows, drawing attention not just for its rarity but also for its originality and the elegant two-tone color scheme that sets it apart. While these late-1970s Rivieras can often be found in the market, few offer the combination of low documented mileage, extensive paperwork, and an ownership history as compelling as this one. For someone who appreciates a true survivor with the right story, this Riviera is an exceptional opportunity.



Price does not include applicable tax, title, license, processing, and/or $240 documentation fees.

To see over 80 photos of this car, including the undercarriage, please visit our website www.grautogallery.com