Proud Owner of a 1998 Dark Green Riviera with 145,000 miles when I Purchased it back in February of 2022. Not too common to come across on the road these days. It has been of the best cars I've ever owned to this day!
Hi DanTheBronyMan, Happy to read you're enjoying your car :-) Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
It was the stiffest car made at the time. I had a 97 version of this car and I rue the day I got rid of it. It was by far the best car I had ever owned. Never had any problems with it, towards the end it began needing things but it had about 150000 miles on it. Boy I miss that car, it rode well and was pretty good on gas. Fast accelerating too, if you got the supercharged engine. I swear it was the last good Buick ever built. Thanks Lou for the fond memories. Btw mine was white with dark red interior.
The white peeled. I hear that the reds weren't so hot either. So? Get a better paint job. This car is a classic. Good luck finding parts. It was built too well. Even the starter motor was ahead of the game. Expensive too!
I worked at the Lk. Orion plant where every Riviera of this gen was built. Don's right right about this car being strong , it has a lot of high strength steal in it, including the quarters. You could lay the aluminium hood on the floor and walk across it and not hurt it. Its good to see Don' s kept his in such pristine condition. Thanks for sharing Lou!
This car and the Oldsmobile Aurora were cars I dreamed of owning back then. Beautiful and “stand out” designs that still look great today. Sadly, many of these cars were scrapped during the era of “cash for clunkers”.
Exactly the same for me I was in highschool from 96-2000 and these 2 cars the riv and aurora were my absolutely favorite cars, I have always loved the Riviera 95-99 generation and I still shop for them to try to find a nice one in good shape
I just purchased a 99, pearl white, only 98000 miles. What a gem i have,I didn't realize what i was getting when i bought it, being the caretaker of this car is a privilege. Thank You for this video
Hi bunnyluv045, Happy to read you have a car like this too :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
What a beautiful car by Buick! I always thought the last few years of the Riviera were always underrated and under appreciated. And I love the wrap-around dash. Perfect color combination!!
My mom bought one of these new in 1996 -- with the blower and dark cherry metallic paint. It was her favorite car, next to her '69 Mustang. All I remember is how comfortable it was to drive, and pretty quick for the lumbering hulk that it was. GM dropped these because they were on the Caddy Seville platform, and like the owner said, too expensive to build. Thanks for this video Lou, you just don't see these around.
Really glad to see this car get attention. I first noticed this car in 2002 as a guy in my early 20's. An old dude took a u-ie around a divider right in front of my work and then punched it. He looked like he was having a blast and was obviously getting away with it. The car looked so unique and fun. I didn't understand what I saw or realize that the design had chosen me to pursue ownership of this model. It looked cool, fast, strong, and subtle. Fast forward over a decade later and I finally bought a '97 that ended up getting scrapped but served as a good parts donor for my current '97 Riv. I drive it as a daily as long as the weather is nice. Of course it has some issues but I'm always looking into quality repairs to get it into better than new condition. It's been a long and expensive road but this model Riv is something I cherish very much, and I look forward to every moment I get to cruise around in it. It is fast and smooth and sometimes its weight is an advantage during heavy rain. Cheers.
The real beauty of this car is when you're standing right next to it near the fuel door. One doesn't get an idea of this car's size, potential for power, or smooth lines until they're standing close to it or approaching from an indirect angle. The rear window is so big you'd like to think it came with it's own wiper.
Riviera is perhaps the most boldly styled car ever. Made statements in the 60s and my personal favorite the 71-73 boat tails. Even the smaller 86 with the green touchscreen were just awesome. Sadly Buick doesn't even make cars anymore, just SUVs.
Hi RJ, Happy to read you appreciate the styling of this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Nice car. I own a very clean 99 Diamond White with the Taupe interior and all options. Sunroof, Chrome wheels, etc. 80K miles on it so far. Car was built in Oct of 98'
My dad was Riviera man had three of them. Beautiful cars, fond memories. They just don't make cars like that anymore, I wish Buick would bring it back retro.
In 1998 I was 28 and an older lady at work had a new white riv I've loved them ever since. Had never paid attention before then. Definitely a timeless design it looks great today. A far cry from today's appliances that you can't tell apart. You could see this one coming a mile away.
Hi Robert, Happy to read this car brings back memories of the lady you worked with car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Thanks, Lou - great video as always! This generation Riviera is almost like the end of an era. Although it had several shared components, an effort was made to reflect Buick values, etc.
GM reached out there with the styling in the mid-1990's. The Buick Riviera and its platform mate, the Olds Aurora were well built cars... The Buick stood out because it was a coupe and Buick showcased its 3800 Series II Supercharged engine. I imagine that you can still find a lot of these on the road
Like!! Nothing wrong with exploring the future classics. Nice car. He's right, Holy Crap, did that car have a TON of electronic gizmos. Prob the best v6 ever produced by GM as well.
I love Rivieras, but not this design , the Olds Aurora , which was better looking and had a V8 option sold much better than this Buick and even Buick shut it down after a couple years while the Olds went on till they shut down Olds
@@manoman0 the car in photos us gorgeous, but it's not gorgeous in person, something is off. When it t came by out, what I mentioned was talked about. Most buyer's didn't like it. I keep wishing a Riviera would make a cone back, but now days everyone , but me, wants a freaking SUV
I’ve always thought this is the best of the jellybean body styles. Great car!! No aftermarket support? Sounds like what it is for my Electra. Ebay helps a lot! Thanks for another great car story, Lou. Don Adams always brings the best cars to places like this.
Beautiful car!! One correction: you mentioned in the video that the bench seat and column shifter disappeared in early 1996. It actually lasted through the end of the 1997 model year according to my 1997 Buick brochure I have in my collection of car brochures. 1997 was also the last year for the naturally aspirated 3800 V6.
I've been watching a lot of videos on the Kaiser/Frazier because my wife's uncle did a frame off perfect, original restoration and I thought of it when I first saw this Buick. This is a very pretty car. I am pleasantly surprised at how much I like it. Certainly in fantastic shape. Riviera's were always beautiful cars. My friend's mom had one in the mid- to late-60s with that dramatically sloped rear window. As a little boy it so intrigued me at how striking the car as a whole was. Every boy wanted to he an astronaut back then and that Riviera captured the milieu of the time as having a very futuristic and space-aged look. They are luxurious from any production year.
#438👍 Hello Lou, i found a '99 back 4 years ago and been working on it since, it a daily driver couple times a week. It's in great condition and replacing stuff as it happens. All original still except for fuel pump, new Radiator, Ac compressor new battery, new lock ring for the fuel tank. Other than that all original she drives like a dream. Has the sun roof.
When the Riviera came out for the ‘95 model year, it was considered very futuristic at the time...along with the Olds Aurora that had the cockroach styled rear end...they were leaps and bounds ahead of most other cars that year. It was like buying a concept car right off the dealer lot.
I owned a 95 for 5 years with no issues besides regular wear and tear and just 2 weeks ago, I manifested a 97 Prestige White Diamond. Previous owner had her in Showroom condition and I am blessed to have the opportunity to own another one.💜💜💜
Oh I remember these cars very well. Never have seen one in this color it was very different and pretty. Kind of reminds me of the Oldsmobile Aurora from.that time frame. He has cleaned up.nice and the trunk and treats was pretty cool.too. I do believe I like the red interior in this car better than the putty color he mentioned. Nice car Lou and thanks for sharing!
Just bought almost the identical car ... Also a 1998 in white with only 25k miles. The only difference is his interior is burgandy and mine is beige. Kinda like his better! The car looks amazing and rides as nicely as anything I've ever driven. It's really that good of a car. Very solid. I can't believe Buick never brought the Riviera brand back after all these years.
Hi SaveMagnusHouse, Congratulations on your purchase. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I always liked the look of that Eighth generation (1995-1999) of Riviera, Buick did it right. It's Good looking and probably drives as good as it looks.
Hi Chris, Happy to read you love it :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Hi Michelle, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Hi Dudley, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I'd always wanted this body style, very distinct. Happened across a 1996 that sat up for five years after the owner died. I've bought it back to life and now one of my daily drivers along with my 2001 Saab 9-3. No plans to let it go only to continue to breathe life and beauty back to it.
Beautiful car, an absolute dream. Speaking of the column shifter in Rivieras, Cadillac did a similar thing with the Eldorado when it debuted in 1992. Those Eldos are pretty hard to find, so I can't imagine ever seeing a column shift Riviera, but it would be cool as heck.
Hi Omega Zapruder, High praise :-) Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
One of the two best interior colors. This one being the dark red. The other I really like is the dark charcoal. I had a 1996 white with boring blue interior. I have had 4 of its sister cars: 1998-1999 Aurora, each with the Autobahn package. These cars are SO rigid. It feels like you are driving a one piece metal tube, they are so strong. In fact when GM was testing the Aurora (same platform as the Riviera) for strength on their car body stress machine the MACHINE broke. To get the body to fail they had to put it on the truck stress machine!
I had a 76 Riviera when I was 16 and talked a friend's mom to purchase a brand new 97 Riv and she loved the feel but said there were too many bells and whistles. She kept it until she gave it to a niece with only 22.900 miles.
Hi Ricky, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your Friends Moms car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, and here is that 1976 Riviera for you to enjoy, Lou th-cam.com/video/Zh-YaL8b07Q/w-d-xo.html
Two of their best cars, both Buicks, & GM drops them. The 3800 engine was good enough, but w/ a supercharger, incredible. Self-leveling according to weight. Loaded. Really smart, GM. You wouldn't know a winner if it came down from heaven.
Hi Stravo Lukos, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I just bought a junk yard 1996 Riv, same ext color with a gold package earlier this year... too much for me to fix on it, but I sold it to another enthusiast. Supercharged engine was still good, body was still good. It needed brake lines and paint mainly, among other things. But it drove great- poor thing had been neglected by teens (I found pictures inside). Great to see this one and what could have been with the one I had! I had the electrical manual for mine, and it showed the Aurora also. I'm told some was shared with the Eldo of the time too. The Riv was longer than the Eldo though, and in my eyes more elegant/sporty. Great curves, but one of those love it or hate it cars. Thanks for sharing!
My Grand Am GT 3800 w/o a super charger would get up and go . I'm sure that car will fly . It has a whole herd of cows for interior . Nice car . Thanks for posting .
The 3800 is the best Gm 6 , a proven power plant . I owned 6 different Oldsmobile trofeos , they had shortcomings in the dash electronics , then the transmissions always gave out around 135k , like clockwork . These Buick’s with the super chargers had better trannies built and stronger motors , so it could be this is the crown jewel of the 3800 series ., engineered to perfection .
Just as an FYI... the Prestige package did NOT include the sunroof in 1998. I'm looking at my actual window sticker and in the Prestige Package the sunroof is not listed.
Hi Jeffrey, Thank you for viewing and sharing your knowledge. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Hey Lou. Nice looking Buick Riviera. At the time I didn't find it very attractive, at least not compared to earlier Riviera models. But compared to what's being sold today, I find it quite handsome. :)
I had the '98 Grand Prix GTP, same exact drive train. The problem was that the 4T65E transmission was the weak link on these cars; I went through 2 of those. But I did have the car until 196,000 miles (also replaced the supercharger once).
This, for me hitherto unknown car, has terrific presence. I’m not usually a fan of American cars from this era, but I’ll make an exception here. Terrific documentation in the trunk, possibly the best place to hide it from the wife.
Hi Andrew Graham, The massive doors in the middle of all those rounded curves makes for a unique and unmistakable design. Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
I just found one of these it has 94 k miles and they want 3k plus . Is this a hood deal for 2024? I love the comfort of the seating design and the car I found has cream seats and white paint . I hope I get an answer
Hi Sandee, Usually that V6 is a good engine. Would be helpful if you were able to see if this person has oil change receipts. If there have been proper oil changes and maintenance, this car may have many more miles for you to enjoy. If you have someone who has knowledge of cars, I'd suggest bring them with to ask questions too,. Hope that helps, Lou
Hi Gaylon, Happy to read you appreciate the looks of this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
After it took the ’94 model year off, the Riviera returned with its eighth generation in 1995. It transitioned to the G-body platform that was used for the large Buick Park Avenue of 1997. Riviera’s wheelbase grew to 113.8 inches (from 108), and overall length increased from a paltry 187.8 inches to a more proper 207 inches. It was also a couple of inches wider and taller than the outgoing model. VALUE of anything you have what it cost to replace it try replacing a 1999 Riviera with the toy cars of today and see how much you will pay! FEW computers have 4 to sell $12,000 make a commission
Hi Rainey Riley, Happy to read you have a fun car too. Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Had a 96 bought in 98 traded it in 16 for a new Ram. Nice car did well on the CA freeways nice car for trips good on gas. I had 206k miles at trade. If I remember correctly the Rev limiter hit at 105 mph.
I really really like this car. Have wanted one so bad for years and still do. Been borderline obsessed with this car for about 9 years now. Its not everyones cup of tea and that makes me like it even more. I thought I hated the brown interior. But on a white exterior paint, works way better than other combos. I wish they did like a two tone interior color scheme, just to break up the ocean of brown in the interior. Like this color brown with some Black. I think a brown black two tone interior color with a dark waulnut dash kit would be Amazing. And If you could replace all the plastic controls and vents with metal pieces? Wow man... (I love how the delco stereo looks in this car, but imho, youd have to switch it out for one of those newer stereos with touch screen navi hands free bluetooth Rear cam with parking assist). The absolute worst part of the interior (for me) is the Shifter. Theres nothing elegant about the shifter at all, despite the rest of the interior feeling very high end. Again please dont think Im doggin this car. I have never wanted another (realistic) car more in my life.
Hi The Horizon, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Wow I had a comp G GTP series 3 motor in it, thing was so fun to drive until I blew the transmission, it came with its problems but that whine made you forget about them
I have done a lot of work includes shocks and struts, brakes rotors etc. It's got 118k and I still brake hubs and fix cruise. Then start the process of making cherry 🍒
I have da same exact one but mines have wood grain all around da door nd dashboard.. but sadly they crashed into me on the drive side wheel .. hopefully I’ll fix it soon ..
I was going to look for one and there were many out there 4sale and the 1999 is probably the best year to own. I found many mechanical DIFFERENT issues with the Car. I would like to know what would be the best to do or get ready to fix? Air Ride to conventional Shocks? All new Rubber bushings in the front end (Which ones)? What Supercharger Upgrade or Rebuild should I expect to do? What is the Transmission Upgrades or Is there just a Transmission Rebuild? Please Help me I am a not able to do any work myself. I have to pay a Mechanic for the Repairs
I saw one going up the I-80 freeway here in Northern California. I loved Rivieras, I even owned one in years ago, but was not crazy about this one. It photographed much better than it looked, and the Olds Aurora in a 4dr just had a much better look. It was not the car to have , as it just didn't go over well, the Riv before this one, was beautiful this one wasn't . My Mom was replacing her 81 Riviera in 2000 and the lot had one, of these used, but she settled on a Cadillac Seville.
Hi Southernson1220, Happy to read you appreciate this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Hi Brian White, Happy to read this car reminds you of your cars :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Lou, I have the twin to your car except it is a 99 with 60k for a daily driving toy in NYC. It looks like a great white whale among a sea of Toyota's and Honda's. It runs and rides great & I would post or send you a pic but I am not sure how.
It is a mystery to me why you just do not see many 1995-99 Rivieras. Many of the few you DO see, they are beat to hell. Heck, I see more 1990-1993 Riviera around here. Well, I have TWO 1996 Rivieras now. Although I prefer the same era Olds Auroras, I do not like that the North Star engine tends to lose the threads in the block holding the head bolts! No matter what car it is in, the 3800 is just bullet proof. I see plenty of 1990s Buicks around here with that engine. But the 1995-99 Rivieras are like spotting a UFO.
Proud Owner of a 1998 Dark Green Riviera with 145,000 miles when I Purchased it back in February of 2022.
Not too common to come across on the road these days. It has been of the best cars I've ever owned to this day!
Hi DanTheBronyMan, Happy to read you're enjoying your car :-) Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
It was the stiffest car made at the time. I had a 97 version of this car and I rue the day I got rid of it. It was by far the best car I had ever owned. Never had any problems with it, towards the end it began needing things but it had about 150000 miles on it. Boy I miss that car, it rode well and was pretty good on gas. Fast accelerating too, if you got the supercharged engine. I swear it was the last good Buick ever built. Thanks Lou for the fond memories. Btw mine was white with dark red interior.
Hi Terri Bel Bliss, Thank you for viewing and sharing your 1st hand knowledge of a car like this, Lou
The type of color on this car is absolutely gorgeous. The car itself is also gorgeous.
Hi John Corelli, Glad to read you enjoy the design and color of this car :-) Lou
Hi, Lou Costabile, it's great to finally interact with people like you who's into the older automobiles just like me.
The white peeled. I hear that the reds weren't so hot either. So? Get a better paint job. This car is a classic. Good luck finding parts. It was built too well. Even the starter motor was ahead of the game. Expensive too!
Diamond white it was extra cost on all Buick's.
I had two of this generation, a 95 and a 99. They were great cars, quick, smooth, and reliable!
HI Edwin Massie, Thank you for viewing and sharing your 1st hand knowledge of a car like this, Lou
one of the most beautiful GM cars in the past 3 decades
Hi Willy, High praise :-) Lou
I worked at the Lk. Orion plant where every Riviera of this gen was built. Don's right right about this car being strong , it has a lot of high strength steal in it, including the quarters. You could lay the aluminium hood on the floor and walk across it and not hurt it. Its good to see Don' s kept his in such pristine condition.
Thanks for sharing Lou!
Hi Robert Lee, Thank you for viewing and sharing your 2st hand knowledge of the car :-) You're welcome, Lou
Thank you for viewing and sharing.
This car and the Oldsmobile Aurora were cars I dreamed of owning back then. Beautiful and “stand out” designs that still look great today. Sadly, many of these cars were scrapped during the era of “cash for clunkers”.
Hi wmalden, Glad to read this car is a "dream car" for you :-) Lou
I owned a 1998 Oldsmobile Aurora in pearl white. Beautiful cars
Exactly the same for me I was in highschool from 96-2000 and these 2 cars the riv and aurora were my absolutely favorite cars, I have always loved the Riviera 95-99 generation and I still shop for them to try to find a nice one in good shape
100%. Aurora and Riv's were the best styled cars in this era. Disappointing that Olds is gone and Buick only makes SUVs.
I just purchased a 99, pearl white, only 98000 miles. What a gem i have,I didn't realize what i was getting when i bought it, being the caretaker of this car is a privilege. Thank You for this video
Hi bunnyluv045, Happy to read you have a car like this too :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
What a beautiful car by Buick! I always thought the last few years of the Riviera were always underrated and under appreciated. And I love the wrap-around dash. Perfect color combination!!
Hi Rusty, Glad to read you enjoy the design and interior of this car :-) Lou
My mom bought one of these new in 1996 -- with the blower and dark cherry metallic paint. It was her favorite car, next to her '69 Mustang. All I remember is how comfortable it was to drive, and pretty quick for the lumbering hulk that it was. GM dropped these because they were on the Caddy Seville platform, and like the owner said, too expensive to build. Thanks for this video Lou, you just don't see these around.
Hi Mark Drukenbrod, Glad to read Mom enjoyed her car like this one. You're welcome, Lou
Really glad to see this car get attention. I first noticed this car in 2002 as a guy in my early 20's. An old dude took a u-ie around a divider right in front of my work and then punched it. He looked like he was having a blast and was obviously getting away with it. The car looked so unique and fun. I didn't understand what I saw or realize that the design had chosen me to pursue ownership of this model. It looked cool, fast, strong, and subtle. Fast forward over a decade later and I finally bought a '97 that ended up getting scrapped but served as a good parts donor for my current '97 Riv. I drive it as a daily as long as the weather is nice. Of course it has some issues but I'm always looking into quality repairs to get it into better than new condition. It's been a long and expensive road but this model Riv is something I cherish very much, and I look forward to every moment I get to cruise around in it. It is fast and smooth and sometimes its weight is an advantage during heavy rain. Cheers.
The real beauty of this car is when you're standing right next to it near the fuel door. One doesn't get an idea of this car's size, potential for power, or smooth lines until they're standing close to it or approaching from an indirect angle. The rear window is so big you'd like to think it came with it's own wiper.
Hi VivaLePunk1307, Happy to read you appreciate this car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing your story too, Lou
Riviera is perhaps the most boldly styled car ever. Made statements in the 60s and my personal favorite the 71-73 boat tails. Even the smaller 86 with the green touchscreen were just awesome. Sadly Buick doesn't even make cars anymore, just SUVs.
Hi RJ, Happy to read you appreciate the styling of this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Nice car. I own a very clean 99 Diamond White with the Taupe interior and all options. Sunroof, Chrome wheels, etc. 80K miles on it so far. Car was built in Oct of 98'
Hi Truth Serum, Happy to read you enjoy this "Nice car" :-) Glad to read you have one too, Lou
My dad was Riviera man had three of them. Beautiful cars, fond memories. They just don't make cars like that anymore, I wish Buick would bring it back retro.
Hi Jeffrey Kraus, Sounds like good memories of Dad's cars :-) Lou
Welcome back Don. I am glad to see Don packed the full 1998 Buick Encyclopaedia in the trunk.
Hi Right Lane Hog, You know how I enjoy the "trunk & treats" details, and Don brought all the books and info out on his car :-) Lou
@@loucostabile I am still marveling at Don's Buick convertible from last year and the history lesson he had in its trunk.
He enjoys the details :-)
In 1998 I was 28 and an older lady at work had a new white riv I've loved them ever since. Had never paid attention before then. Definitely a timeless design it looks great today. A far cry from today's appliances that you can't tell apart. You could see this one coming a mile away.
Hi Robert, Happy to read this car brings back memories of the lady you worked with car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Thanks, Lou - great video as always!
This generation Riviera is almost like the end of an era. Although it had several shared components, an effort was made to reflect Buick values, etc.
Hi Jeff King, I agree with the "end of an era" comment. You're welcome, Lou
Always loved these. It's kind of scary to think this car is 21 years old. I had to say it out loud. LOL.
Hi Todd Wall, Glad you "love" this model :-) You're right, just a few more year for antique status :-( Lou
Great paint and interior. That is it. A car with no after market support speaks volumes.
Hi Old Town, Glad to read you enjoy the details of this car :-) Lou
The 3.8 is well supported in the aftermarket.
GM reached out there with the styling in the mid-1990's. The Buick Riviera and its platform mate, the Olds Aurora were well built cars... The Buick stood out because it was a coupe and Buick showcased its 3800 Series II Supercharged engine. I imagine that you can still find a lot of these on the road
Hi Keith Jackson, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts, Lou
I just purchased one of these(97) and I love this car...really wanna take good care of it....rides smooth...and is pretty long for a coupe
Hi What will we talk about next ?, Congratulations on your purchase :-) Sounds like you're the right Care Taker for your car. Enjoy the ride, Lou
Beautiful car....2 door supercharged personal luxury performance car....LOVE THE COLOR COMBO.
Hi Mike, Happy to read you enjoy the looks of this car :-) Lou
Like!! Nothing wrong with exploring the future classics. Nice car. He's right, Holy Crap, did that car have a TON of electronic gizmos. Prob the best v6 ever produced by GM as well.
Hi Michael R, Glad to read you enjoy this car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
I love Rivieras, but not this design , the Olds Aurora , which was better looking and had a V8 option sold much better than this Buick and even Buick shut it down after a couple years while the Olds went on till they shut down Olds
What can one say? 3.8 V6 Series II S/C.
@@manoman0 the car in photos us gorgeous, but it's not gorgeous in person, something is off. When it t came by out, what I mentioned was talked about. Most buyer's didn't like it. I keep wishing a Riviera would make a cone back, but now days everyone , but me, wants a freaking SUV
@@califdad4 I think I now what you mean. I think it is a beauty and I'd take it any day but the proportions are a bit off.
I’ve always thought this is the best of the jellybean body styles. Great car!! No aftermarket support? Sounds like what it is for my Electra. Ebay helps a lot! Thanks for another great car story, Lou. Don Adams always brings the best cars to places like this.
Hi Fred and Debra MacDonald, Glad to read you consider this a "Great car!!" :-) You're welcome, Lou
I haven't seen that gen Rivera with that interior color before,must be a rare color.
Hi David Cruz, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts. Lou
Beautiful car!! One correction: you mentioned in the video that the bench seat and column shifter disappeared in early 1996. It actually lasted through the end of the 1997 model year according to my 1997 Buick brochure I have in my collection of car brochures. 1997 was also the last year for the naturally aspirated 3800 V6.
Hi Thomas Perkins, Thank you for viewing and sharing your knowledge, Lou
I've been watching a lot of videos on the Kaiser/Frazier because my wife's uncle did a frame off perfect, original restoration and I thought of it when I first saw this Buick. This is a very pretty car. I am pleasantly surprised at how much I like it. Certainly in fantastic shape. Riviera's were always beautiful cars. My friend's mom had one in the mid- to late-60s with that dramatically sloped rear window. As a little boy it so intrigued me at how striking the car as a whole was. Every boy wanted to he an astronaut back then and that Riviera captured the milieu of the time as having a very futuristic and space-aged look. They are luxurious from any production year.
Hi Rudolph Guarnacci, Thank you for viewing and sharing your story. Glad to read you enjoy the design of this car, Lou
@@loucostabile
Yes, all generations of a most beautiful model. Timeless in it's design.
Very elegant car - I would gladly own one of these beauties!😎
Happy to read you enjoy this "Very elegant car" :-)
I'm glad someone covers cars like this. Thanks for the vid
Hi OPTIMA PRIME, Thank you for viewing and sharing :-) You're welcome, Lou
@@loucostabile the more oddball and offbeat the better. Keep it up
#438👍 Hello Lou, i found a '99 back 4 years ago and been working on it since, it a daily driver couple times a week. It's in great condition and replacing stuff as it happens. All original still except for fuel pump, new Radiator, Ac compressor new battery, new lock ring for the fuel tank. Other than that all original she drives like a dream. Has the sun roof.
Hello Edward, Sounds like you are taking care of your great car, Lou
When the Riviera came out for the ‘95 model year, it was considered very futuristic at the time...along with the Olds Aurora that had the cockroach styled rear end...they were leaps and bounds ahead of most other cars that year. It was like buying a concept car right off the dealer lot.
HI Brian Blair, Thank you for viewing and sharing your knowledge, Lou
I owned a 95 for 5 years with no issues besides regular wear and tear and just 2 weeks ago, I manifested a 97 Prestige White Diamond. Previous owner had her in Showroom condition and I am blessed to have the opportunity to own another one.💜💜💜
Hi V, Happy to read this one brings back memories of your car, Lou
Oh I remember these cars very well. Never have seen one in this color it was very different and pretty. Kind of reminds me of the Oldsmobile Aurora from.that time frame. He has cleaned up.nice and the trunk and treats was pretty cool.too. I do believe I like the red interior in this car better than the putty color he mentioned. Nice car Lou and thanks for sharing!
HI Steve Flad, Glad to read this one brings back memories :-) Happy to see you enjoy the details on the truck too. You're welcome, Lou
Just bought almost the identical car ... Also a 1998 in white with only 25k miles. The only difference is his interior is burgandy and mine is beige. Kinda like his better! The car looks amazing and rides as nicely as anything I've ever driven. It's really that good of a car. Very solid. I can't believe Buick never brought the Riviera brand back after all these years.
Hi SaveMagnusHouse, Congratulations on your purchase. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I always liked the look of that Eighth generation (1995-1999) of Riviera, Buick did it right. It's Good looking and probably drives as good as it looks.
Hi Marten Trudeau, Glad to read you enjoy the design of this car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
Love it. There's one in my little home town here on the west coast of Canada. I've been coveting it since I first saw it over a year ago.
Hi Chris, Happy to read you love it :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Those darn "Good Tunes" will get you a speeding ticket in this car...🤣🤣🤣
:-)
Man i want a buick Riviera
Hi 1997 Daniel Flores, Hope you're behind the wheel of the right Riviera for you soon, Lou
@@loucostabile thanks
I loved that car. It had a Super Charged one in white.
Hi Michelle, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I had one just like that brand new. It was one sweet ride.
Hi Dudley, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I'd always wanted this body style, very distinct. Happened across a 1996 that sat up for five years after the owner died. I've bought it back to life and now one of my daily drivers along with my 2001 Saab 9-3. No plans to let it go only to continue to breathe life and beauty back to it.
Hi F Swanson, Glad to read you're comment, and happy to read you're doing a great job taking car of your 1996 :-) Lou
Beautiful car, an absolute dream.
Speaking of the column shifter in Rivieras, Cadillac did a similar thing with the Eldorado when it debuted in 1992. Those Eldos are pretty hard to find, so I can't imagine ever seeing a column shift Riviera, but it would be cool as heck.
Hi Omega Zapruder, High praise :-) Thanks for sharing your knowledge. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
One of the two best interior colors. This one being the dark red. The other I really like is the dark charcoal. I had a 1996 white with boring blue interior. I have had 4 of its sister cars: 1998-1999 Aurora, each with the Autobahn package. These cars are SO rigid. It feels like you are driving a one piece metal tube, they are so strong. In fact when GM was testing the Aurora (same platform as the Riviera) for strength on their car body stress machine the MACHINE broke. To get the body to fail they had to put it on the truck stress machine!
Happy to read you had a 1996 & the Aurora too :-) Thank you for viewing & sharing.
I had a 76 Riviera when I was 16 and talked a friend's mom to purchase a brand new 97 Riv and she loved the feel but said there were too many bells and whistles. She kept it until she gave it to a niece with only 22.900 miles.
Hi Ricky, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your Friends Moms car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, and here is that 1976 Riviera for you to enjoy, Lou th-cam.com/video/Zh-YaL8b07Q/w-d-xo.html
Great car, Lou. GM made some awesome cars back in the day...so unfortunate that todays cars lack any excitement...…..
Hi William Colella, Glad to read you enjoy this car :-) Well will enjoy some of the older cars on this Channel then, Lou
Two of their best cars, both Buicks, & GM drops them. The 3800 engine was good enough, but w/ a supercharger, incredible. Self-leveling according to weight. Loaded. Really smart, GM. You wouldn't know a winner if it came down from heaven.
Hi Stravo Lukos, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
didn't realize it at the time,... But my dad was pretty damn cool.
Nice :-)
Thanks for your efforts here. Beautiful machine!
Glad to read you enjoy the looks of this car and you're welcome.
Don is a proud owner of this Buick and I would be too. I never knew how good this gen of Riv's are
Hi David Kastin, Agreed, Don enjoys this car :-) Glad to read you enjoy learning about this car too, Lou
Thank you for viewing and sharing.
U welcome. It’s a good car. Love the 70s riviera
Glad you enjoy this car :-)
Beautiful car and wonderful content, as usual ☺
Hi Drak Vaclav, Thank you for viewing and sharing a wonderful comment :-) Lou
I own one of these Rivieras. I love it!
Hi 1aikane, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
@@loucostabile I own it now
I just bought a junk yard 1996 Riv, same ext color with a gold package earlier this year... too much for me to fix on it, but I sold it to another enthusiast. Supercharged engine was still good, body was still good. It needed brake lines and paint mainly, among other things. But it drove great- poor thing had been neglected by teens (I found pictures inside).
Great to see this one and what could have been with the one I had! I had the electrical manual for mine, and it showed the Aurora also. I'm told some was shared with the Eldo of the time too. The Riv was longer than the Eldo though, and in my eyes more elegant/sporty. Great curves, but one of those love it or hate it cars. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Consure, Thank you for viewing and sharing your 1996 Riv story :-) Regarding the video, you're welcome, Lou
it cool to see something from that era not many would show one thanks
Hi larry borlstrom, Glad to read you're enjoying the variety of cars on this Channel :-) Lou
My Grand Am GT 3800 w/o a super charger would get up and go . I'm sure that car will fly . It has a whole herd of cows for interior . Nice car . Thanks for posting .
Hi Bud Lee, Thank you for sharing details of your car, and glad you thought this one was nice :-) Lou
The 3800 is the best Gm 6 , a proven power plant . I owned 6 different Oldsmobile trofeos , they had shortcomings in the dash electronics , then the transmissions always gave out around 135k , like clockwork . These Buick’s with the super chargers had better trannies built and stronger motors , so it could be this is the crown jewel of the 3800 series ., engineered to perfection .
Hi David, Happy to read you have many Olds you enjoy. Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
Wow!! Luxury comparable to a Bentley or Jaguar! One of my favorite car of 90"s, and a state of the art in design, very fluid.
Hi Luciano Korn, Glad to receive a "Wow!!" from you :-) Happy to read this one is a favorite of yours, Lou
@@loucostabile yeah! I love the Riviera and the Eldorado, when we gona see a Cad Eldorado in your channel?
Just as an FYI... the Prestige package did NOT include the sunroof in 1998. I'm looking at my actual window sticker and in the Prestige Package the sunroof is not listed.
Hi Jeffrey, Thank you for viewing and sharing your knowledge. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Hey Lou. Nice looking Buick Riviera. At the time I didn't find it very attractive, at least not compared to earlier Riviera models. But compared to what's being sold today, I find it quite handsome. :)
Hey Jason, Glad to read you enjoy the looks of this Riviera :-) Lou
Love the color
Nice :-)
I had the '98 Grand Prix GTP, same exact drive train. The problem was that the 4T65E transmission was the weak link on these cars; I went through 2 of those. But I did have the car until 196,000 miles (also replaced the supercharger once).
Hi mitchlu, Thank you for viewing and sharing details on your 1998 Grand Prix GTP :-) Lou
This, for me hitherto unknown car, has terrific presence. I’m not usually a fan of American cars from this era, but I’ll make an exception here. Terrific documentation in the trunk, possibly the best place to hide it from the wife.
Hi Andrew Graham, The massive doors in the middle of all those rounded curves makes for a unique and unmistakable design. Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
Interesting video. A nice car in its day
Hi J Lo, Thank you for watching and commenting, Lou
I just found one of these it has 94 k miles and they want 3k plus . Is this a hood deal for 2024? I love the comfort of the seating design and the car I found has cream seats and white paint . I hope I get an answer
Hi Sandee, Usually that V6 is a good engine. Would be helpful if you were able to see if this person has oil change receipts. If there have been proper oil changes and maintenance, this car may have many more miles for you to enjoy. If you have someone who has knowledge of cars, I'd suggest bring them with to ask questions too,. Hope that helps, Lou
@@loucostabile i thought i was bringing you lmao!!!! Thank you for advice
It's a nice looking car I like that color of white. The buick Riveras were always great cars that was GM's elite car.
Hi Pete Medina, Glad to read you think this car is nice looking :-) Lou
Love the looks and interior 💯
Glad to read the details you enjoy :-)
Just beautiful !!! .
Hi Gaylon, Happy to read you appreciate the looks of this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Sweet 😀 One of my favorate Buick Models
Hi Michael Coffey, Glad to read this one is a favorite of yours :-) Lou
😀@@loucostabile
Nice ride
:-)
Oh, I also own a 65 factory AC car w/ Deluxe interior, power everything. White w/Green Interior.
Nice !
I still like it.
Nice :-)
I remember seeing a similar color on the Lincoln Mark VIII and they called it Oyster Pearl White.
Thank you for viewing and sharing William
What goes wrong on these cars and are they like the older bmw in terms of maintaince and repairs please lmk I’m about to buy one
Hi Sandee, If it was me, I'd ask on Google "What goes wrong with a 198 Buick Riviera" and study what you've found. Hope that helps, Lou
Did any riviera's come with a white interior?
Hmmm, not sure. Hoping a Viewer can share knowledge, Lou
After it took the ’94 model year off, the Riviera returned with its eighth generation in 1995. It transitioned to the G-body platform that was used for the large Buick Park Avenue of 1997. Riviera’s wheelbase grew to 113.8 inches (from 108), and overall length increased from a paltry 187.8 inches to a more proper 207 inches. It was also a couple of inches wider and taller than the outgoing model. VALUE of anything you have what it cost to replace it try replacing a 1999 Riviera with the toy cars of today and see how much you will pay! FEW computers have 4 to sell $12,000 make a commission
Thank you for viewing and sharing.
I have a 1998 Riviera white t tipe supercharge but it has a wing on the back
Hi Rainey Riley, Happy to read you have a fun car too. Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
I have loved my 1995 and 1998
Hi Mike Fifer, Hi Ed, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
@@loucostabile I am currently looking at buying another 1998 supercharged.
Mike
Had a 96 bought in 98 traded it in 16 for a new Ram. Nice car did well on the CA freeways nice car for trips good on gas. I had 206k miles at trade. If I remember correctly the Rev limiter hit at 105 mph.
Hi Thomas, Happy to read this car brings back memories of your car :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
@Lou Costabile Also ran the 96 riv and 67 Buick Special Deluxe 225 V6 auto together at Pomona in the 1/4. The Riv ran low 15s and the 67 ran 18s.
I really really like this car.
Have wanted one so bad for years and still do.
Been borderline obsessed with this car for about 9 years now.
Its not everyones cup of tea and that makes me like it even more.
I thought I hated the brown interior. But on a white exterior paint, works way better than other combos. I wish they did like a two tone interior color scheme, just to break up the ocean of brown in the interior. Like this color brown with some Black. I think a brown black two tone interior color with a dark waulnut dash kit would be Amazing. And If you could replace all the plastic controls and vents with metal pieces? Wow man... (I love how the delco stereo looks in this car, but imho, youd have to switch it out for one of those newer stereos with touch screen navi hands free bluetooth Rear cam with parking assist).
The absolute worst part of the interior (for me) is the Shifter. Theres nothing elegant about the shifter at all, despite the rest of the interior feeling very high end.
Again please dont think Im doggin this car. I have never wanted another (realistic) car more in my life.
Hi The Horizon, Thank you for viewing and sharing your thoughts. Hope you see many more cars on this TH-cam Channel you enjoy. Please subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
Wow I had a comp G GTP series 3 motor in it, thing was so fun to drive until I blew the transmission, it came with its problems but that whine made you forget about them
Hi SS103, Happy to read this car / video brings back memories of your GTP :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
I have one .this car is so great on highway
Hi Mark, Happy to read you have a cool car too, Lou
I have done a lot of work includes shocks and struts, brakes rotors etc. It's got 118k and I still brake hubs and fix cruise. Then start the process of making cherry 🍒
Looks just like my baby sitting in the garage. Mine is a 1996!!
Happy to read you have one too :-)
Thanks - I never knew there was a Riviera in 1998!
You're welcome.
Just picked up a 99 diamond white riviera 109k on it love the car
Congratulations!
@@loucostabile thanks Lou
I have da same exact one but mines have wood grain all around da door nd dashboard.. but sadly they crashed into me on the drive side wheel .. hopefully I’ll fix it soon ..
Hi Backdooh Payed me, Ouch! Hope you and your car are ok, and back on the road soon, Lou
I was going to look for one and there were many out there 4sale and the 1999 is probably the best year to own. I found many mechanical DIFFERENT issues with the Car. I would like to know what would be the best to do or get ready to fix? Air Ride to conventional Shocks? All new Rubber bushings in the front end (Which ones)? What Supercharger Upgrade or Rebuild should I expect to do? What is the Transmission Upgrades or Is there just a Transmission Rebuild? Please Help me I am a not able to do any work myself. I have to pay a Mechanic for the Repairs
Hi Alan Charlap
, Thank you for viewing and hope you're behind the wheel of the right car for you soon, Lou
Anyone know where I can find some after market headlights I can't seem to locate any
eBay
I saw one going up the I-80 freeway here in Northern California. I loved Rivieras, I even owned one in years ago, but was not crazy about this one. It photographed much better than it looked, and the Olds Aurora in a 4dr just had a much better look. It was not the car to have , as it just didn't go over well, the Riv before this one, was beautiful this one wasn't . My Mom was replacing her 81 Riviera in 2000 and the lot had one, of these used, but she settled on a Cadillac Seville.
Hi califdad4, Thank you for viewing sharing your 1st hand knowledge, Lou
You either love or hate the body styling, no middle of the road. I would love to have one.
Hi Southernson1220, Happy to read you appreciate this car :-) Thank you for viewing, sharing and I believe you're going to see many more cars on this Channel you'll enjoy. Hope you Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
🔝🏁📹 merci mon Lou 📹🏁🔝
Hi LIBERTY MAN, You're welcome, Lou
What was the horsepower rating on The Supercharged Riviera?
Hmmm, not sure. Hopefully a Viewer can share knowledge.
240 hp
Just picked up a 98 with only 25,000 miles for sale here located in South New Jersey today’s date 11/24/24
Hi Dave, Congratulations!
I love rivieras i own two of them one base model and one super charger and im buy other one tomorrow too
Hi Brian White, Happy to read this car reminds you of your cars :-) Thank you for viewing and sharing. Hope you see many cars on this Channel you enjoy! Please Subscribe, and hit the "bell" so you can see all the cars when they are uploaded on this TH-cam Channel, Lou
@@loucostabile you have one for sale
Lou, I have the twin to your car except it is a 99 with 60k for a daily driving toy in NYC. It looks like a great white whale among a sea of Toyota's and Honda's. It runs and rides great & I would post or send you a pic but I am not sure how.
Hi Brian C, Thank you for sharing you have one like this car, and it's Don's car, I'm videoing and sharing with the Car Friends across the Globe. Lou
@@loucostabile Is there a way for me to send Don my contact info?
I kinda like it
Hi Lou Tom, Thank you for viewing and sharing, Lou
How many 1996s are there?
Not sure.
Buick built 18,036 Riviera's in 1996. How many are still left is anyones guess.
Hard to believe but these Rivieras are about the same size as the Park Avenue!
Thanks for sharing.
nice looking car, and it has the supercharger
HI itsjustme, Glad to read you enjoy the looks of this car :-) Lou
It is a mystery to me why you just do not see many 1995-99 Rivieras. Many of the few you DO see, they are beat to hell. Heck, I see more 1990-1993 Riviera around here. Well, I have TWO 1996 Rivieras now. Although I prefer the same era Olds Auroras, I do not like that the North Star engine tends to lose the threads in the block holding the head bolts! No matter what car it is in, the 3800 is just bullet proof. I see plenty of 1990s Buicks around here with that engine. But the 1995-99 Rivieras are like spotting a UFO.
Hi humbuckerpickups, Happy to read you have two Rivieras :-) Twice as nice! Lou
I currently own a 97 that is almost as nice as this one. It's exactly like this one but the wheels are different.
Hi Frank, Happy to read you have a fun car like this one :-) Lou