1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport

This 1965 Buick Riviera is a little more special as it has the Gran Sport package that included a bigger engine, dual exhaust system with extra large exhaust pipes (giving reduced back pressure), a high-performance 3,42 to 1 rear axle ratio with positive traction differential and bright metal engine accents.

First introduced in 1963 this was the last Riviera of the first generation cars before a complete revamp for 1966.

One of the distinguishing features of the new ’65 Riviera was the moving of the headlights from the grille to behind the shields on the front fender. At the flick of the light switch the clam shell would open revealing the lights. The taillights were relocated to the bumper giving the back of the car a cleaner look.

rear of a 65 Buick Riviera GS
rear view

TRIVIA: The movie Roadhouse with Patrick Swayze playing James Dalton the professional ‘Bouncer’ featured the 1965 Buick Riviera, further adding to the car’s popularity.

interior shot of a 65 Buick Riviera
personal luxury

The Riviera was a personal luxury car and as such came with the following as standard: woodgrain veneer interior panels, power steering, power brakes, tilt steering wheel, 2-speed electric wipers, windshield washer, map light, electric clock, automatic trunk light, glove compartment light, foam-padded bucket seats, center console amongst a host of other things.

This Riviera was also purchased with air conditioning which was a $500 option. Other options on this car include: Am radio, tinted glass, remote mirror, power 4-way driver’s seat and power windows.

The standard Riviera came with a 325 horsepower 401 cubic inch V8 as standard paired with a Super Turbine automatic transmission.

However, as this is a Gran Sport it is equipped with a 425 cubic inch Super Wildcat V8 that outputs 360 horsepower and features dual 4-barrel carburetors.

425 Super Wildcat V8

Buick produced 34,586 Riviera cars for the 1965 model year at a base price of $4,318 with the Gran Sport package costing an additional $188.

This 1965 Riviera GS is currently for sale on eBay. (follow the link for lots more photos)

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