by Mike Gulett –
As collector car prices have increased over the past few years many of us have been priced out of certain collector cars. However, there are still some interesting cars available for under $50,000 USD that would be fun to own and drive or show or race or whatever the plan.
More and more modern cars (1980 or later) are falling into the collector car category like the Chrysler Crossfire, and the Acura NSX. However, today we look at a beauty from 1965 which is the final iteration of the ’63-’65 Buick Riviera.
1965 Buick Riviera
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 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.
The engines available were: 401 V8 325bhp @ 4400rpm, 425 V8 340bhp @ 4400rpm, 465 lb-ft @ 2800rpm, 425 V8 (2×4) 360bhp (for the Gran Sport model). The Gran Sport would be my choice but it exceeds the $50k price limit for a condition 2 example.
The 1965 Riviera came with every luxury option and represented cutting edge styling and performance. It was at the top of Buick’s coupe line up in 1965.
Number made: 34,586
Hagerty Price Guide value for a condition 2 example: $34,900
Sports Car Market Pocket Price Guide median price: $33,000
Read about other cars in the Under $50k series.
Let us know what you think in the Comments.
You’re spot on, Mike — the ’65 Riv is ultra cool. It lets its fundamental design magic do the talking, without ornamentation. A friend has a black ’65 with black steelies and a pristine interior — he calls it Freak Sinatra. It out-cools all other cars when he parks it. (I expect Sammy & Dean to step out of it.) I didn’t realize the prices has moved up that far but it’s good to know there are tasteful shoppers out there.
Those 3 new cars, each the nicest of their year and make have always been highly desirable, big and bold. Their looks hearken back to the end of the golden era of the personal luxury cars of the ’30s.
For a short time they stood out from the rest. They have hung on to their unique appearance and style and as far as I am concerned remain so.
Throw in the competition and you have a line of somewhat under the radar, but emerging beauties.
What do you out there believe I’m speaking of.
Oh, remember I’m always right, right?
YEAH, THEY WERE ALWAYS A GREAT CAR. BUT WHAT ABOUT THE , GRAND NATIONAL’S”, WITH THE TURBOCHARGERS?