The Buick Riviera is a significant personal luxury car produced by Buick from 1963 to 1999, excluding the 1994 model year. It marked General Motors' first venture into the personal luxury car segment and was met with acclaim by automotive critics upon its introduction. The Riviera was built on a brand-new GM E platform for the 1963 model year and represented Buick's maiden unique Riviera model.
Initially, the Riviera featured a front engine/rear-wheel drive layout, distinguishing it from its GM E platform counterparts, the Oldsmobile Toronado and Cadillac Eldorado. However, the design was transitioned to front-wheel drive from the 1979 model year onwards. Over its production span, the Riviera underwent eight subsequent generations characterized by notable variations in size and styling.
Key points:
1. Buick Riviera was a personal luxury car marketed from 1963 to 1999, except for the 1994 model year.
2. General Motors' inaugural foray into the personal luxury car segment was met with positive reviews.
3. The Riviera was based on the new GM E platform debut for the 1963 model year and was Buick's first distinct Riviera model.
4. A shift from front engine/rear-wheel drive to front-wheel drive occurred from the 1979 model year onwards.
5. Over its lifespan, the Riviera experienced eight generations with considerable diversity in size and design.
