Red, Convertable, Black Top, On Chrome Wheels, History on 2040-cars

If you have owned one of these fine Buick automobiles you know what an exciting, luxurious car they are. The Convertible was based on a new Body Style for Riviera, introduced in 1979. Changed little over the next seven years, this Body Style has gone down as the best selling Riviera of all time. By 1982 GM Brass was feeling pretty good about this car and decided to introduce a Convertible version in the spring of 1982. This being the first for Buick since 1975 and the first Convertible of any kind to come out of GM since the “The Last Of A Breed” 1976 Cadillac Eldorado was axed.

This was a big step, it was 1982 and times were tough for the American auto industry.  On February 25, 1982, a press release was sent out to all dealers. The all new, limited production, Buick Riviera Convertible is to debut in the spring, mid April 1982. Available in two colors only; White or Red Firemist with a Maple / Claret Leather Interior with a White Vinyl Top. Most never made it to dealer’s lot before mid to late July of that year and all featured the new updated 1983 Riviera Grill. This was a very well appointed automobile by 1982 standards and the price reflected it. 

Consider this, a brand new 1982 Buick Riviera hardtop, a best seller for Buick, cost $14,898.45 base price with freight. Not a cheap car by any standard. The 1982 Buick Riviera Convertible, a new untested car for Buick, cost $24,494.25 base price with freight. Add some options and this car could top out at over $27,500.00. This was the highest priced automobile GM sold, and that counted the entire brand, including Cadillac.

 In 1982 only 1248 were produced. Not a bad number for a newly introduced, limited production, high end automobile.

While all of the cars began life as a hardtop at the Linden, New Jersey assembly plant, they were soon on their way to American Sun Roof (ASC) in Lansing, Michigan. Here they would have the top removed, the structure strengthened and the final assembly of the convertible top mechanism, rear seat and interior appointments. It should be noted that the rear seat assembly is unique to the convertible alone and will not interchange with the hardtop. After completion here at ASC it was off to the Dealer.

This car is considered a piece of American history for sure and it is fun to drive!

The car is a local consignment and we were told it has 69k original miles on it, it is in very good shape with a new black top and after market wheels and tires its a real eye catcher! the car is rust free and ready to go! This car and drives great all the standard equipment on it is in good working condition.

Email or call for more pictures or questions MIKE 1-425-330-4678