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The 1985 Buick Riviera represented the pinnacle of American personal luxury coupes, marking a remarkable moment in automotive history when style, innovation, and performance converged. As the final year of its first front-wheel-drive generation, this model showcased Buick’s commitment to luxury and technological advancement during a transformative era in automotive design.
A Pinnacle of Personal Luxury
The 1985 Riviera stood as a testament to American automotive engineering, offering multiple powertrain options that catered to different driver preferences. Buyers could choose from three distinct engine configurations:
- Standard 307 cu. in. V8 with 140 horsepower
- Optional Turbocharged 3.8L V6 with 180 horsepower
- Optional 350 cu. in. Diesel V8
Impressive Production and Popularity
Production numbers for the 1985 model year were remarkable, with 65,305 total vehicles manufactured. This included: - 1,069 T-Type models - 400 convertibles (with only 47 featuring the turbocharged V6)
Design and Features
The Riviera’s exterior embodied elegance with its long hood and short deck profile. Distinctive features included: - Waterfall grille - Classic wire wheel covers - Plush interior with wood or faux wood accents
Technological Innovations
For its time, the 1985 Riviera was surprisingly advanced. Noteworthy technological features included: - Electronic climate control - Optional Graphic Control Center (a touchscreen computer interface) - Advanced turbocharged engine with port fuel injection
Performance and Driving Experience
The turbocharged T-Type model was particularly impressive, offering: - 190 horsepower - 300 lb-ft of torque - Significantly more responsive performance compared to the standard V8
Historical Significance
The 1985 Riviera represented one of the final expressions of traditional American car design before aerodynamics and fuel efficiency became paramount. Its rear-wheel-drive layout set it apart from competitors moving towards front-wheel-drive configurations.
Pricing and Options
Base pricing for the 1985 Riviera included: - Standard V8 Coupe: $16,710 - Turbo Convertible: $27,457
Notable optional features: - Astroroof: $1,195 - GM Delco/Bose music system: $895 - Electric rear defroster: $140
Legacy
The 1985 Buick Riviera remains a cherished classic, symbolizing an era when American luxury cars prioritized style, comfort, and individual expression. It stands as a final brilliant chapter in the Riviera’s storied history before significant design changes in subsequent years.
How many 1985 Buick Rivieras were produced?
+65,305 total vehicles were produced in 1985, including 1,069 T-Type models and 400 convertibles.
What made the 1985 Riviera special?
+The 1985 Riviera offered multiple engine options, advanced technological features like the Graphic Control Center, and represented the last year of its first front-wheel-drive generation.
What was the base price of a 1985 Buick Riviera?
+The standard V8 Coupe was priced at $16,710, while the Turbo Convertible started at $27,457.