The 1979 Buick Riviera, a sleek and stylish American coupe, stands as a testament to the automotive design trends of the late 1970s. This model year marked a significant turning point for the Riviera, as it embraced a more angular and modern aesthetic while still retaining the luxurious feel that had defined the model since its inception.
Its distinctive features, from the sharp lines of its bodywork to its opulent interior, made it a head-turner on the roads and a coveted collectible today.
The 1979 Riviera was available with a choice of two powerful V8 engines, offering a blend of performance and comfort that catered to a diverse range of drivers. The car’s advanced features, including air conditioning, power steering, and automatic transmission, contributed to its reputation as a luxurious and technologically advanced automobile for its time.
Moreover, the Riviera’s cultural impact was felt in its appearances in films, television shows, and music videos, further solidifying its status as an icon of the era.
Introduction
The 1979 Buick Riviera was a significant iteration in the history of this iconic American luxury coupe. It marked the beginning of a new generation for the Riviera, with a revised design, updated features, and a focus on fuel efficiency.
The 1979 model year was crucial for the Riviera as it navigated the challenges of the energy crisis and the evolving automotive landscape.
Key Features and Design Elements
The 1979 Riviera featured a redesigned body that was sleeker and more aerodynamic than its predecessors. It retained the distinctive long hood and sloping roofline that defined the Riviera’s aesthetic. However, the 1979 model introduced a new grille with a more prominent horizontal bar and rectangular headlights.
The rear end also received a makeover, with new taillights and a revised bumper.
- The 1979 Riviera’s interior was also updated with a new dashboard, seats, and upholstery. The emphasis was on comfort and luxury, with features like power windows, power locks, and air conditioning.
- The 1979 Riviera was offered with a choice of two engines: a 350 cubic inch V8 and a 403 cubic inch V8. The 350 V8 was the standard engine, while the 403 V8 was optional. Both engines were designed for fuel efficiency, a critical consideration during the era of high gasoline prices.
- The 1979 Riviera’s suspension was also revised to improve handling and ride quality. The car featured a front independent suspension and a rear live axle with leaf springs.
Design and Styling
The 1979 Buick Riviera was a statement of luxury and style, embodying the spirit of the late 1970s. Its design was a departure from previous models, reflecting the era’s trends toward larger, more ostentatious vehicles.
Exterior Design
The 1979 Riviera featured a distinctive, angular design that was both elegant and aggressive. The long hood, sloping roofline, and prominent grille gave it a distinctive profile. The car’s overall size was substantial, reflecting the popularity of larger vehicles at the time.
The rear end, with its integrated taillights and bumper, was a key design element, adding to the car’s imposing presence. The Riviera’s exterior was characterized by a generous use of chrome trim, which emphasized its luxurious nature. The chrome accents on the grille, bumpers, window moldings, and side trim created a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Interior Design
The 1979 Riviera’s interior was designed to provide a luxurious and comfortable driving experience. The cabin featured plush upholstery, woodgrain accents, and an abundance of soft-touch materials. The dashboard was designed with a focus on ergonomics, with easy-to-read gauges and controls.
The front seats were spacious and supportive, while the rear seats offered ample legroom and headroom.
Use of Chrome and Decorative Elements
The 1979 Riviera’s exterior design was heavily influenced by the use of chrome. Chrome accents were used extensively on the grille, bumpers, window moldings, side trim, and wheel covers. The liberal use of chrome added to the car’s luxurious and sophisticated appearance, reflecting the era’s taste for ostentatious styling.
In addition to chrome, the Riviera also featured other decorative elements, such as woodgrain accents on the dashboard and door panels, which further enhanced its luxurious feel.
Comparison to Earlier and Later Models
The 1979 Riviera represented a significant departure from earlier models. Its angular design and generous use of chrome marked a shift from the more rounded and understated styling of the 1960s and early 1970s. Compared to later Riviera models, the 1979 version was larger and more ostentatious, reflecting the era’s preferences for bigger and more luxurious cars.
However, the 1979 Riviera’s design elements, such as the prominent grille and sloping roofline, would continue to influence the design of subsequent Riviera models.
Performance and Handling
The 1979 Buick Riviera, while known for its luxurious interior and stylish exterior, didn’t prioritize performance in the same way as its muscle car counterparts. However, it still offered a respectable driving experience, catering to a more relaxed and comfortable driving style.
Engine Options
The 1979 Riviera came with a selection of engine options, each offering varying levels of power and fuel efficiency. The standard engine was a 350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8, producing 150 horsepower and 250 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more power, a 403 cubic inch (6.6L) V8 was available, generating 175 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque.
The 403 engine was also offered with an optional 4-barrel carburetor, increasing output to 210 horsepower.
Transmission and Drivetrain
All Riviera models were equipped with a 3-speed automatic transmission, paired with a rear-wheel drive system. This configuration provided smooth acceleration and a comfortable ride, aligning with the car’s overall emphasis on luxury and comfort.
Performance Characteristics
The 1979 Riviera was not known for its blistering acceleration. With its standard engine, the car could reach 0-60 mph in approximately 10 seconds, while the 403 engine shaved a few seconds off that time. The Riviera’s handling was generally described as stable and comfortable, but not particularly sporty.
Its relatively soft suspension provided a smooth ride, but it wasn’t as responsive or agile as some of its competitors.
Comparison to Competitors
Compared to other luxury coupes of the time, such as the Cadillac Eldorado and Lincoln Continental, the 1979 Riviera offered a more affordable option without sacrificing much in terms of comfort and features. However, in terms of performance, it lagged behind some of its rivals.
For example, the Eldorado offered a more powerful engine option and a sportier handling experience.
Features and Technology
The 1979 Buick Riviera, a luxury coupe, was equipped with a range of features and technologies that reflected the automotive landscape of the late 1970s. The car offered a blend of comfort, convenience, and performance, with several notable features that set it apart from its competitors.
Available Options and Packages
The 1979 Riviera was available with a variety of options and packages that allowed buyers to customize their vehicles to meet their individual needs and preferences.
- Luxury Options: The Riviera offered a wide range of luxury features, including leather upholstery, power windows, power locks, power seats, air conditioning, cruise control, and an AM/FM stereo with an optional cassette player.
- Performance Packages: For those seeking a more spirited driving experience, Buick offered a “Sport” package that included a more powerful engine, a firmer suspension, and larger wheels and tires.
- Convenience Features: The Riviera also included several convenience features that enhanced the driving experience, such as a tilt steering wheel, a rear window defroster, and a trip computer.
Innovative Features and Technology
The 1979 Riviera featured several innovative features and technologies that were considered cutting-edge for the time.
- Electronic Ignition: The Riviera’s electronic ignition system was a significant advancement over traditional points-style systems. It provided more precise spark timing, leading to improved fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
- Digital Instrument Cluster: The Riviera’s digital instrument cluster, a feature that was becoming more common in luxury cars, displayed vehicle information such as speed, engine temperature, and fuel level. This technology provided a more modern and informative driving experience.
- Automatic Climate Control: The Riviera’s automatic climate control system allowed drivers to set the desired temperature, and the system would automatically adjust the airflow and temperature to maintain that setting. This feature provided enhanced comfort and convenience.
Cultural Impact and Legacy: 1979 Buick Riviera
The 1979 Buick Riviera, with its bold styling and luxurious features, left a lasting mark on automotive culture, influencing design trends and appearing in popular media. Its distinctive silhouette and innovative features helped solidify Buick’s reputation for building stylish and technologically advanced vehicles.
The Riviera’s Role in Popular Culture
The 1979 Riviera’s presence in popular culture helped solidify its status as a symbol of luxury and sophistication. It appeared in various movies, television shows, and music videos, often driven by characters representing wealth and success. Its sleek design and powerful engine made it a popular choice for filmmakers seeking to portray a sense of style and prestige.
For instance, in the 1980 film “The Blues Brothers,” a 1979 Riviera is driven by the film’s protagonists, highlighting its association with rebelliousness and coolness.
Collecting and Restoration
The 1979 Buick Riviera, a symbol of American luxury and style, has garnered a devoted following among collectors. While not as sought-after as some of its predecessors, the 1979 model holds a unique place in automotive history, offering a glimpse into the design and engineering trends of the late 1970s.
Collector Value and Market
The collector value of the 1979 Riviera varies significantly based on condition, mileage, and originality. Pristine examples, especially those with low mileage and documented history, can command a premium price. However, more common models with higher mileage or signs of wear and tear are generally priced lower.
The market for 1979 Rivieras is relatively niche, with a limited number of buyers actively seeking these cars. However, interest in classic American luxury cars is steadily growing, potentially leading to increased demand and values in the future.
The 1979 Buick Riviera, a symbol of American luxury in its time, was a far cry from its ancestors. While the 1979 model embraced a more conservative design, its predecessors like the 1926 Buick Master were known for their opulent styling and powerful engines.
The 1979 Riviera, despite its more subdued aesthetic, still held its own in the luxury car market, offering a comfortable and spacious ride.
Restoration Challenges and Solutions
Restoring a 1979 Riviera can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Some common restoration challenges include:* Finding Original Parts:Sourcing original parts can be difficult due to their age and availability.
Corrosion
The 1970s saw a surge in the use of steel that was susceptible to corrosion.
Interior Materials
Original interior materials like vinyl and fabric can deteriorate over time, requiring replacement or restoration.
Engine and Transmission
The 1979 Buick Riviera, with its sleek lines and opulent interior, was a departure from the more traditional styling of its predecessors. While it shared the General Motors C-body platform with other large luxury cars like the Oldsmobile Toronado, the Riviera stood out with its unique design.
This approach wasn’t entirely new, as Buick had already experimented with similar styling cues in the 1967 Buick Electra , which featured a fastback design and a more athletic stance. The Riviera, however, took these elements to a new level, further solidifying its position as a bold and stylish statement in the luxury car market.
The 350 cubic-inch V8 engine and Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission, while reliable, may require rebuilds or replacements depending on condition.
The 1979 Buick Riviera, with its distinctive angular styling, marked a departure from the more rounded designs of the previous decade. This evolution in design can be traced back to the 1966 Buick Riviera , which itself was a radical departure from the traditional Buick styling of the time.
While the 1966 Riviera introduced a sharp, sculpted look, the 1979 model refined that concept with more pronounced edges and a more aggressive stance.
Solutions:
- Online Parts Suppliers:Numerous online retailers specialize in classic car parts, including those for the 1979 Riviera.
- Restoration Shops:Professional restoration shops have the expertise and resources to tackle complex restoration projects.
- Riviera Clubs and Forums:Online forums and clubs dedicated to the Riviera provide valuable resources, including parts leads, restoration advice, and connections with other enthusiasts.
- Alternative Parts:Aftermarket parts are available for many components, offering cost-effective solutions when original parts are unavailable.
Resources and Communities
Several resources and communities exist to support Riviera collectors and enthusiasts:* Buick Club of America:The Buick Club of America is a national organization with local chapters dedicated to preserving and promoting Buick vehicles, including the Riviera.
Riviera Owners Club International
This international organization provides resources and support for Riviera owners, including technical information, parts sourcing, and event listings.
Online Forums
Numerous online forums dedicated to the Buick Riviera offer a platform for enthusiasts to share information, ask questions, and connect with other collectors.
Key Aspects of Restoration
| Common Issues | Solutions | Resources |
|---|---|---|
| Corrosion | Professional rust repair, replacement panels, rust-resistant coatings | Body shops specializing in classic car restoration, online forums, parts suppliers |
| Interior Deterioration | Reupholstery, replacement seat covers, carpet replacement | Interior restoration specialists, online parts suppliers, classic car upholstery shops |
| Engine and Transmission Issues | Engine rebuild, transmission rebuild, replacement parts | Engine rebuilders, transmission specialists, online parts suppliers, classic car mechanics |
| Electrical System Malfunctions | Diagnosis and repair by a qualified electrician, replacement parts | Electrical specialists, classic car mechanics, online parts suppliers |
Conclusion
The 1979 Buick Riviera, a symbol of American luxury and style, stands as a testament to a bygone era of automotive design and engineering. Its unique blend of classic elegance and futuristic features made it a standout vehicle in its time.
While its production ended in 1999, its legacy continues to resonate with car enthusiasts and collectors.
The Enduring Appeal of the 1979 Buick Riviera
The 1979 Riviera’s enduring appeal lies in its distinctive design, powerful engine, and luxurious features. Its sleek lines, sculpted bodywork, and distinctive grille, combined with its comfortable interior and advanced technology, made it a compelling choice for drivers seeking a balance of performance and refinement.
The 1979 Riviera’s enduring appeal lies in its distinctive design, powerful engine, and luxurious features.
The Riviera’s Legacy in Automotive History, 1979 Buick Riviera
The 1979 Riviera, like its predecessors, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of American luxury cars. It represented a departure from the more conservative designs of the past, embracing a more futuristic and aerodynamic aesthetic. This approach paved the way for future generations of luxury vehicles, emphasizing both performance and style.
The 1979 Riviera, like its predecessors, played a significant role in shaping the landscape of American luxury cars.
Last Word
The 1979 Buick Riviera stands as a compelling example of American automotive design and engineering during a pivotal time in history. Its unique blend of style, performance, and luxury continues to captivate enthusiasts and collectors today. While its production may have ended decades ago, the Riviera’s legacy lives on, reminding us of a bygone era when American cars were synonymous with grandeur and innovation.