Image of 1987 Buick Riviera, sourced from bringatrailer.com , Image Link.

1987 Buick Riviera: A Touchstone of Personal Luxury

The 1987 Buick Riviera glides into the annals of automotive history with a blend of elegance and technological ambition that encapsulated the era's American luxury car ethos. Born from the distinguished lineage of Buick, a marque synonymous with upscale sophistication, the Riviera model first made waves in the early 1960s. By the time the '87 model rolled off the assembly line, it had already established itself as a personal luxury coupe that combined comfort with a touch of innovation. Notably, this iteration of the Riviera was one of the first American cars to feature a touchscreen interface, known as the Graphic Control Center, setting a precedent for future in-car technology.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the '87 Riviera was a departure from its predecessors, featuring more aerodynamic lines that reflected the design trends of the late 80s. The front fascia, with its distinctive grille and headlamp arrangement, presented a modern face to onlookers. Inside, passengers were greeted by plush seating and an array of luxury appointments that spoke to Buick's commitment to comfort. The use of high-quality materials such as genuine leather and wood trim created an environment that was both inviting and opulent. The aforementioned Graphic Control Center was revolutionary, offering drivers control over various vehicle functions through a touchscreen interface—a concept far ahead of its time. Color options for this model year included classic hues such as "Medium Garnet Red Metallic" and "Light Sage Metallic," with darker colors often accentuating the car's sleek profile. Body styles were limited to the two-door coupe, but this focus allowed for refinement and coherence in design that appealed to buyers seeking a personal luxury experience.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Buick Riviera's introduction of advanced electronics set it apart from many contemporaries and foreshadowed an industry-wide shift towards integrating more technology into vehicles. While not all innovations were met with universal acclaim—some found the touchscreen system complex—the Riviera helped pave the way for future user interfaces in cars.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its refined exterior, the '87 Riviera housed a 3.8-liter V6 engine capable of delivering smooth performance that aligned with its grand touring nature. While not designed as a sports car, it offered respectable acceleration, moving from 0-60 mph in just under 10 seconds—a decent figure for its class at the time. Handling was tuned more towards comfort than agility, but it managed bumps and less-than-perfect road conditions with grace. Drivers often remarked on the quietness of the ride and how well-insulated the cabin was from external noise, allowing for a serene driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The Riviera served various roles ranging from daily driver to showpiece on the lawns of classic car shows. Its reliability was typical of American cars in that era; solid if well-maintained but could be costly if neglected. Parts availability remained reasonable due to shared components with other General Motors vehicles. Maintenance could generally be handled by mechanically inclined owners or any reputable mechanic familiar with GM products.

Fun Facts

The '87 Riviera may not have been known for setting speed records or dominating sales charts, but it did carve out its niche among enthusiasts who appreciated its blend of technology and luxury. While not commonly associated with celebrity ownerships or high-profile events, it remains a beloved piece in many collectors' portfolios. Common criticisms at the time included some hesitancy towards adopting new technology interfaces and a desire for more potent engine options.

Collector's Information

Today, values for an '87 Buick Riviera vary widely based on condition, mileage, and history. Estimates suggest that anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 could be expected for well-preserved examples. Production numbers were not exceedingly high compared to mass-market vehicles; thus, finding one in excellent condition can be somewhat rare. Price trends have shown slight appreciation for pristine models as nostalgia for 80s luxury coupes grows among collectors.

Conclusion

The 1987 Buick Riviera stands as a testament to an era when personal luxury and technological experimentation went hand-in-hand. It may not have been everyone's quintessential dream car at its inception, but today it garners respect for what it represented—an ambitious fusion of comfort and innovation.

1987 Buick Riviera Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot