1963 Buick Riviera

Highlights

• Rust-free California import with matching numbers 401ci nailhead V8 engine
• Bare metal respray in 2018 by Alchemy Paint, known for respraying Magnus Walker's Porsches
• In current ownership for approximately a decade and dry stored throughout
• Extensive recent mechanical work including new brake lines, radiator and electronic ignition
• Custom-made stainless steel exhaust system

The Appeal

The 1963 Buick Riviera established a whole new level of American luxury when it hit the market in 1963. Bill Mitchell's personal luxury coupe boasted clean, razor-edged coke-bottle styling, long before Studebaker became synonymous with it, and the first-generation car remains the most coveted in the line; certainly the purest in the lineage. Finding one in the UK is rare enough, but this handsome machine is a particular head-turner!

This example was sourced in California and imported in 2017, bringing with it the fine condition that only a dry-climate car can offer. In 2018, the car was taken back to bare metal and resprayed in Ferrari Rubino red pearl, with the underside fully sealed in Raptor liner at the same time. The drivetrain pairs its matching-numbers nailhead V8 with a rebuilt 'switch pitch' gearbox from a later Riviera, and the suspension has been upgraded with air equipment for fully adjustable ride height.
A good deal of mechanical renewal has been carried out in recent years, and the vendor describes the car as running very smoothly and strongly. Dry stored and only occasionally used, this Riviera presents an appealing opportunity to acquire a well-sorted, striking example of an iconic American grand tourer.

Key Information

• Mileage: 38,443 miles (indicated)
  • Believed to have gone around the clock
• Country of registration: UK (ex-California)
• Technical inspection status: MOT exempt
• Technical specs: 6,600cc V8, three-speed automatic
• Paperwork: Gearbox rebuild receipt from 2018, photocopied American title, some US paperwork, UK V5C

The Detail

• Original matching numbers 401ci 'nailhead' V8
• Fitted with a 'switch-pitch' gearbox sourced from a later model Riviera, rebuilt in 2018 with receipt
• Suspension fitted with air bags allowing fully adjustable ride height
• Bare metal respray carried out in 2018 in Ferrari Rubino red pearl
• Underside fully protected with black Raptor liner
• The vendor describes the bodywork and paint as being in very good order, with all original trim retained
• The vendor states the interior is complete and original but showing some signs of wear
• The vendor states due to a small air leak in the front suspension, the car needs to be periodically raised by using the adjustment switches on the control box to keep it at a raised level
• All instruments reported to be in working order
• New windscreen, seals, radiator, electronic ignition and battery fitted within the last five years
• New brake lines and bushings recently fitted
• Recent oil changes and general servicing carried out
• Dry stored throughout the current ownership period and only occasionally used
• The vendor notes that the car carries a custom-made stainless exhaust system which is quiet on tick-over but gives a nice sound when revved

BEFORE YOU BUY

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