Picture Perfect: 1982 Buick Riviera Convertible – Sold?

November 3, 2021 Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found, we’re assuming this ride is “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Avid Topless Thursday feature followers likely recall this 1983 Buick Riviera convertible from earlier this summer we labeled “Blurred Beauty” for the badly taken photographs. This 1982 Buick Riviera convertible, originally listed in September 2021 on Craigslist in Westport, Connecticut is proof of the difference in the quality of Craigslist ad looks with just the right pictures. Not only does the seller take advantage of using Craigslist’s 24-picture capacity, but nearly all of the photographs are also taken with a natural backdrop, with the sunlight behind the shooter either early in the morning or late in the day when the sun isn’t as harsh.

Featuring a rebuilt powertrain and just under 63K original miles, the private seller is asking for $20,000 for their 1982 Buick Riviera Convertible.  Comparing that price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the private seller has their Riviera priced between this guide’s #2 “Excellent” estimate of $15,600 and its #1 “Concours” appraisal of $25,500. As a second data point, the Collector Car Market Review Online Tool lags the recent uptick in the value of these cars as the seller’s ask is nearly two thousand dollars higher than this guide’s #1 “Excellent” appraisal of $18,100.

While Lee Iacocca gets credit for bringing back American convertibles at the beginning of 1982, Buick gets the nod for being the first domestic automaker to offer a modern, downsized version of the classic land yacht later that same year. Hoping to capitalize on pent-up demand for a true four-seat convertible (while the Chrysler LeBaron convertible technically offered a back seat, the rear was not exactly a roomy place for even one person to sit), Buick contracted with American Sunroof Corporation (“ASC”) to convert hardtop Rivieras into drop-tops.  The end product was a stunner that offered interior room comparable to the coupe it was based on.  Unfortunately, the $24,000 price tag, the equivalent of $64,000 today, combined with ASC’s craft-like production capacity, limited the take rate to just over 1,200 buyers for its inaugural year.

The Osborne Tramain YouTube Channel features this General Motors Halo commercial from 1982 where they feature the Buick Riviera convertible:

Every convertible looks great photographed with the top lowered, so as good as the pictures are for this Riviera, we would have traded off some of the duplicate angles provided for one shot of the car with the top raised to illustrate it’s condition as well as a shot of the open trunk showing it’s in similar shape. Based on the pictures provided, however, it’s like the condition of those will be consistent with the balance of this Riviera.

Here’s the seller’s description:

“For sale for the first time since 1982! This Buick Riviera Convertible was sold from Wasley Buick Oldsmobile of Bristol, CT, and has been single-family owned since. The 6th Gen Riviera is a time capsule with 62,651 original miles. The White exterior and Maple Red leather interior are also entirely original condition.

The factory equipment includes the matching numbers 5.0L Buick V8, Quadrajet 4-Barrel Carb, and a 4-speed automatic. It is also equipped with Air Conditioning, Powering Steering, and Power Disc Brakes. It is super drivable and comfortable with a classic 80s style. The motor and transmission were recently fully rebuilt and have less than 1,500 miles since. Receipts are available upon request.

The red leather interior is free of any rips or tears. The walnut wood veneer and dashboard are free of any cracks and the gauges are in great condition. The radio has been replaced with an aftermarket unit and offers USB & Bluetooth connectivity. Other trim options include Power Windows, Power Door Locks, Power Mirrors, and even Power Front Bucket Seats.

The original window sticker, manuals, and documentation are included with the sale. A Carfax report is also available upon request. With just over 1,200 ever produced for 1982, this all-original 62K mile luxury cruiser is a rarity. All reasonable offers and trades are always considered, feel free to reach out with any questions!

Specifications:
– 307 CID, 5.0L, V8, 4BBL Carb
– 4-Speed Automatic
– Freshly Rebuilt Motor & Transmission
– Tilt Steering Column
– Sport Steering Wheel
– Power Steering
– Power Windows
– Tinted Glass
– Air Conditioning
– American Classic White Wall Tires“

Show or go: what would you do with this Buick Riviera Convertible?  Comment below and let us know!