1965 Buick Riviera - Classic Car Gallery and Historical Insights
Explore the history, iconic appearances, and high-value sales of the 1965 Buick Riviera, one of the most celebrated luxury cars of its time.
1965 Buick Riviera Gallery
The 1965 Buick Riviera is a remarkable piece of automotive history, revered for its elegant styling and impressive performance. A personal luxury car produced by Buick from 1963 to 1999, the Riviera set new standards for design in the automotive world. It became especially popular for its combination of sophisticated design and powerful performance.
Top-Selling 1965 Buick Rivieras
The 1965 Buick Riviera, particularly in its Gran Sport variants, continues to capture the attention of collectors, with some of the highest-selling examples fetching impressive prices at auction:
| Model | Condition | Price Sold |
|---|---|---|
| 1965 Buick Riviera GS | Original & Highly Original | $275,000 |
| 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport | Original & Highly Original | $185,000 |
| 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport | Original & Highly Original | $162,000 |
| 1965 Buick Riviera GS | Original & Highly Original | $137,500 |
| 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport | Original & Highly Original | $132,000 |
| 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport | Original & Highly Original | $126,000 |
History of the 1965 Buick Riviera
Introduced as a personal luxury car by Buick in 1963, the Buick Riviera quickly gained recognition for its innovative design and powerful performance. The 1965 model is part of the first generation of the Riviera, standing out with its distinctive styling and exceptional engineering. Unlike other GM E-platform cars, the Riviera remained rear-wheel-drive, making it a more dynamic driving experience.
The vehicle's popularity continued throughout its production years, with the 1965 model marking a significant year for the car's success. A total of 1,127,261 Rivieras were produced during its run, solidifying its place in American automotive history.
Celebrity Owners of the 1965 Buick Riviera
Several prominent figures have shown their appreciation for the 1965 Buick Riviera, including comedian Bill Burr, who praised the car's design and performance on *Jay Leno's Garage*. Actor Danny Trejo also displayed his personal 1965 Buick Riviera on Leno’s show, further cementing the car’s cultural significance.
Additionally, the Riviera's presence on screen has helped solidify its status as an iconic vehicle. In films like *The Graduate* (1967) and *The Big Lebowski* (1998), the Riviera became synonymous with luxury and elegance, further enhancing its allure.
The 1965 Buick Riviera in Pop Culture
Beyond its automotive legacy, the Buick Riviera has appeared in various films and television shows, where it played a role in symbolizing status and sophistication:
- The Graduate (1967): Dustin Hoffman’s character, Benjamin Braddock, drives a 1966 Buick Riviera, symbolizing rebellion and independence.
- The X-Files (1993-2018): The sleek and mysterious design of the Buick Riviera made it a fitting choice for the paranormal investigations of FBI agents Mulder and Scully.
- The Big Lebowski (1998): A black 1973 Buick Riviera belonging to the character Jackie Treehorn adds an element of luxury and intrigue to this cult classic.
- Fast Times at Ridgemont High (1982): Brad Hamilton’s 1960 Buick Riviera serves as a symbol of his social aspirations.
Noteworthy Facts about the 1965 Buick Riviera
The 1965 Buick Riviera is not just a beautiful car, but a powerhouse of performance and innovation. Here are some key features that set it apart:
- Clamshell Headlights: These innovative headlights used a single electric motor to open and close, maintaining the car's smooth, aerodynamic appearance when not in use.
- Powerful Engine: With options like the 425-cubic-inch (7.0L) Super Wildcat V8, producing up to 360 horsepower, the Riviera delivered impressive speed and acceleration.
- Luxury Interior: Equipped with leather upholstery, bucket seats, and a center console, the Riviera provided a comfortable, premium driving experience.
- Superior Handling: The X-frame chassis combined structural stiffness with smooth handling, making it one of the best-handling full-size cars of its era.
- Limited Production: Only 34,586 Rivieras were produced in 1965, adding to the vehicle's rarity and desirability among collectors.
1965 Buick Riviera Value Today
Depending on its condition, the 1965 Buick Riviera can be worth quite a bit. Below are the estimated values for various conditions:
| Condition | Value |
|---|---|
| Rough | $12,300 |
| Average | $27,300 |
| Clean | $43,600 |
| Outstanding | $59,100 |
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Frequently Asked Questions
The 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport features a powerful 425/360 HP dual 4-barrel V8 engine, offering an exhilarating driving experience with outstanding acceleration and power.
The 1965 Buick Riviera switched from the Dynaflow transmission to the new Turbo-Hydramatic 400 3-speed automatic transmission, known for its smooth shifting and durability.
The 1966 Buick Riviera grew slightly larger than its 1965 predecessor. The 1966 model also incorporated more refined styling elements to appeal to high-end buyers seeking luxury and performance in one package.
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