This 1973 Buick Riviera Boattail is a Beautiful Classic Today, But Was Controversial In Its Time

The third generation Riviera was meant to be a classic from the get-go. Legendary designer Bill Mitchell was nearing the end of his career, and wanted to go out with a masterpiece. He certainly designed one in the Boattail, but GM brass and the accountants would throw a serious curve ball in the process, that pretty much changed the entire direction of the car, if not the concept itself.

That said, this Riviera was really the last bespoke generation, that shared virtually no cosmetics with any other GM product. It's unique styling and the inherent goodness of the mechanicals have contributed toward these cars now being fully appreciating collectibles with a strong following.

This is an in-depth review and test drive of a 12K mile 1973 Riviera GS. Vehicle is from a private collection, and not for sale.

Videos referenced in this video:

1971 Buick Riviera Road Test:
   • BUD LINDEMANN ROAD TEST 1971 BUICK RI...  

1964 Corvette Sting Ray:
   • The Mid-Year C2 Corvette is the Most ...  

1968 Buick Riviera:
   • This 1968 Buick Riviera Sport Coupe w...  

1974 Pontiac Formula Firebird:
   • 1 of 58!  This Ultra Rare 1974 Pontia...  

1977 Pontiac Grand Prix by:
   • This 1977 Pontiac Grand Prix SJ was O...