1983 Buick Riviera Convertible

1983 Buick Riviera Convertible 5.0L V8 Engine with Auto Trans. Load Riviera Convertible Here. Beautiful Car with Air Condisitoning. Power Everything. Car has only 83,825 Miles. All original interior, 6 way power drivers seat, power windows, white convertible top, electronic touch climate control. Great Sunday Cruizer. 

The 1983 Buick Riviera Convertible is an iconic American luxury car that combines classic styling with refined comfort. Buick reintroduced the Riviera as a convertible in the early '80s after a long absence, making the 1983 Riviera Convertible particularly special as one of the few open-top luxury cars of its era. Here are some key details:

Exterior Design:

• Body Style: 2-door convertible with a fully retractable soft-top roof.
• Distinctive Riviera Look: The Riviera has a squared-off, angular design typical of 1980s American cars, with clean lines, a formal grille, and chrome accents throughout.
• Convertible Top: The power-operated top is fully retractable, and the vehicle includes a glass rear window with a defroster. The top folds into a well behind the rear seats, giving the car a streamlined look when down.
• Wheels: The 1983 Riviera Convertible rides on 15-inch chrome wire wheels with whitewall tires, enhancing its classic luxury appeal.
• Headlights: The Riviera featured rectangular headlights integrated into the body, giving it a sharp, upscale appearance.

Engine and Performance:

• Standard Engine: The 1983 Riviera Convertible is powered by a 5.0L (307 cubic inch) V8 engine producing 140 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque.
• Transmission: Paired with a 4-speed automatic transmission, designed for a smooth and comfortable driving experience rather than performance.
• Front-Wheel Drive (FWD): Unlike many luxury cars of the time, the Riviera used a FWD layout, enhancing its stability and interior space.
• Ride Quality: Buick’s focus for the Riviera was on comfort, with a suspension setup tuned to absorb road imperfections, delivering a quiet and comfortable ride suitable for leisurely cruising.

Interior Features:

• Seating: The interior is fitted with plush leather seating, offering seating for four with ample legroom and comfort in both front and rear seats.
• Dashboard and Controls: The 1983 Riviera has a wood-trimmed dashboard with an array of analog gauges, all positioned for ease of use. The cabin is adorned with chrome and wood accents, elevating its luxury appeal.
• Standard Features: Power windows, power door locks, and power-adjustable seats come standard, as do conveniences like a tilt steering wheel and cruise control.
• Premium Sound System: A Delco sound system with cassette player is standard, providing high-quality sound for the era.

Features and Options:

• Climate Control: An automatic climate control system was available, ensuring that passengers stayed comfortable regardless of the weather.
• Advanced Safety Features: Standard safety features included seatbelts, padded interior surfaces, and a robust chassis design.
• Optional Extras: Buyers could opt for upgrades like power mirrors, additional power seat adjustments, and premium leather interior options.

Performance and Driving Experience:

• Smooth Cruising: The Riviera Convertible is not a performance vehicle but a smooth cruiser. The V8 engine delivers adequate power for highway driving but is tuned for a quiet and relaxed experience.
• Steady and Balanced Handling: With its FWD setup and balanced suspension, the Riviera is predictable and steady, especially on long, straight roads.
• Fuel Economy: Fuel efficiency was around 16-18 mpg on the highway, which was typical for large luxury convertibles at the time.

Production and Rarity:

• Limited Production: The 1983 Riviera Convertible was a low-production model, with only a few thousand units produced. This scarcity has made it a collectible classic.
• Price: In 1983, the Riviera Convertible was a luxury item, with a price significantly higher than the hardtop versions. Adjusted for inflation, this would be a luxury price point today.

Notable Competitors:

• Cadillac Eldorado Convertible
• Lincoln Continental Mark VI
• Chrysler LeBaron Convertible

The 1983 Buick Riviera Convertible stands out as a classic American luxury car with elegant styling and premium features, aimed at buyers seeking a relaxed and sophisticated convertible. Its rarity and refined style continue to make it a sought-after classic today.