by Mike Gulett –
I had a 1965 Buick Riviera HO slot car when I was a young boy and have loved the style ever since. The ’65 seems more loved than the ’63 and ’64 models because the headlights are hidden behind the clam shell covers which open when the headlights are turned on. The ’63 and ’64 models had the quad headlights visible in the grille area.
This Buick Riviera generation was designed by Bill Mitchell and was praised because of its European looks, Coke bottle shape, American power and comfort. It was a true personal luxury car with elegant styling. I am not a fan of most ’60s American car interiors. The Buick Riviera is a rare exception.
With the many million dollar cars at auction during Monterey Car Week this year this sub-$100k car attracts me very much, especially since it is a Gran Sport. RM Sotheby’s is auctioning off this beauty.
1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport
RM Sotheby’s writes,
Chassis No. 494475H935131
Engine No. L X432 5H935131
Desirable first year of the Riviera Gran Sport
Believed to be one of 3,354 Gran Sports built for 1965
Sold new through Braley & Graham Buick in Sacramento, California
Striking Bill Mitchell design; finished in Verde Green over Green
Equipped with period accessory RAC tachometer and Moto Monitor vacuum gauge
Estimate: $50,000 – $60,000 USD | Offered Without Reserve
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
Photos by Rasy Ran Photography and compliments of RM Sotheby’s.
One of the most beautiful automotive designs. The 1965 Riviera, of the three years of this design, is by far the best due to the clamshell headlight covers as you mention.
I forgot to mention that I love green cars though I have never owned one. This green on green looks great in the photos.
The rear window is elegant in the top 90% like a coachbuilt Rolls wind no cheap chrome border but then they spoiled it with a slab of chrome across the bottom that looks like it was installed i n five minutes. You didn’t repeat the PR gem of the time but , begging your indulgence, I would like to believe it so I’ll re-tell it. The lines of the car were originally inspired when Mitchell, during a stop-off in London, saw a Rolls in the fog and decided to do a car as elegant. He almost succeeded.
Also the famed mechanic who kept Hollywood stunt man Carey Loftin’s Bizzarrinis running also dabbled in Buick Riviera Gran Sports ,so if he loved them I hafta believe there was something equally special about them
In addition to its gorgeous exterior design, the first generation Riviera has one of the most beautiful interior designs as well. Glenn in Brooklyn, NY.
It sold for $100,800, which must be a record for a ‘65 Riviera.
I also loved to have old model cars. I furnished them and resale with a high price. some of them are still with me.