The 1987 Buick Riviera is a personal luxury coupe that was produced by Buick from 1986 to 1993. It was the ninth generation of the Riviera and was a restyled version of the previous generation car. The 1987 Riviera was available in two trim levels: base and T-Type.
The base model came with a 3.8L V6 engine that produced 150 horsepower. The T-Type came with a turbocharged 3.8L V6 engine that produced 205 horsepower. Both engines were paired with a four-speed automatic transmission. The 1987 Riviera was also available with a variety of features, including power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a premium sound system.
The 1987 Buick Riviera was a popular car, with over 50,000 units sold. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and strong performance. The Riviera was also a significant car for Buick, as it helped to revive the brand’s image in the 1980s.
1987 Buick Riviera
The 1987 Buick Riviera stands out as a significant automobile, offering a unique blend of style, luxury, and performance. Its key aspects encapsulate the essence of this remarkable vehicle:
- Year of Production: 1987
- Manufacturer: Buick
- Body Style: Personal luxury coupe
- Engine Options: 3.8L V6 and turbocharged 3.8L V6
- Transmission: Four-speed automatic
- Features: Power windows, power locks, air conditioning, premium sound system
- Popularity: Over 50,000 units sold
- Significance: Helped revive Buick’s brand image in the 1980s
These aspects intertwine to showcase the 1987 Buick Riviera’s significance in the automotive industry. Its sleek design and luxurious interior appealed to style-conscious buyers, while its powerful engine options provided an exhilarating driving experience. Furthermore, its impressive sales figures and contribution to Buick’s brand rejuvenation highlight its commercial success and lasting impact.
Year of Production
The year of production, 1987, holds great significance in the context of the 1987 Buick Riviera. It marks the year when this iconic vehicle emerged from General Motors’ assembly lines, shaping its identity and leaving a lasting legacy in the automotive world.
- Technological Advancements: The 1980s witnessed significant technological advancements in the automotive industry. The 1987 Buick Riviera incorporated many of these advancements, including fuel injection systems, electronic engine controls, and improved suspension designs. These advancements contributed to the car’s enhanced performance, efficiency, and handling characteristics.
- Design and Styling: The year 1987 also marked a notable period in automotive design. The 1987 Buick Riviera showcased a sleek and aerodynamic profile, characterized by its distinctive sloping roofline and sharp body lines. Its design reflected the evolving tastes of consumers who sought vehicles that exuded both elegance and sportiness.
- Market Positioning: The 1987 Buick Riviera was introduced amidst a competitive automotive market. In 1987, the luxury coupe segment featured several prominent players, including the Cadillac Eldorado and the Lincoln Continental. The Riviera’s unique combination of style, performance, and features allowed it to stand out in this competitive landscape.
- Cultural Context: The year 1987 was a time of economic prosperity and cultural change. The 1987 Buick Riviera appealed to buyers who valued luxury, style, and performance, reflecting the aspirations and lifestyles of the era.
In conclusion, the year of production, 1987, played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of the 1987 Buick Riviera. It represented a confluence of technological advancements, design trends, market dynamics, and cultural influences, contributing to the car’s enduring legacy as a symbol of luxury, style, and performance.
Manufacturer
The connection between “Manufacturer: Buick” and “1987 Buick Riviera” is significant, as Buick, the renowned American automobile marque, played a pivotal role in designing, engineering, and producing the 1987 Buick Riviera.
- Brand Identity and Heritage: Buick, established in 1899, has a long and distinguished history in the automotive industry. The 1987 Buick Riviera embodies the brand’s core values of luxury, style, and performance, which have been synonymous with Buick vehicles for generations.
- Design and Engineering: Buick’s team of designers and engineers invested significant effort in developing the 1987 Riviera, ensuring that it met the highest standards of quality and innovation. The car’s sleek and aerodynamic profile, advanced powertrain, and refined interior are testaments to Buick’s commitment to excellence.
- Production and Assembly: The 1987 Buick Riviera was meticulously assembled at Buick’s manufacturing facility, utilizing state-of-the-art production techniques and rigorous quality control measures. Buick’s dedication to precision and craftsmanship is evident in every aspect of the Riviera’s construction.
- Marketing and Sales: Buick’s marketing and sales strategies played a crucial role in the success of the 1987 Riviera. The car was positioned as a premium luxury coupe that offered a compelling blend of style, performance, and comfort. Buick’s extensive dealer network and effective advertising campaigns contributed to the Riviera’s strong sales performance.
In conclusion, the connection between “Manufacturer: Buick” and “1987 Buick Riviera” is deeply intertwined. Buick’s legacy of automotive excellence, design expertise, and commitment to quality are all reflected in the 1987 Buick Riviera, making it a true embodiment of the Buick brand.
Body Style
The “Body Style: Personal luxury coupe” holds significant relevance to the “1987 Buick Riviera” due to its direct impact on the car’s design, functionality, and market positioning.
The personal luxury coupe body style is characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic profile, spacious and comfortable interior, and powerful engine. These attributes align perfectly with the Riviera’s intended purpose as a luxurious and performance-oriented vehicle. The coupe body style provides a balance of style, comfort, and performance, making it an ideal choice for buyers seeking a vehicle that combines elegance with driving enjoyment.
The 1987 Buick Riviera exemplifies the personal luxury coupe body style. Its sloping roofline, sharp body lines, and muscular stance give it a distinctive and eye-catching appearance. The Riviera’s interior is equally impressive, featuring premium materials, ample legroom, and a driver-centric cockpit. The powerful V6 engines provide exhilarating performance, further enhancing the car’s appeal as a personal luxury coupe.
The personal luxury coupe body style has played a crucial role in shaping the identity of the 1987 Buick Riviera. It has contributed to the car’s enduring popularity among enthusiasts and collectors, making it a true icon of the personal luxury coupe segment.
Engine Options
Within the automotive realm, the “Engine Options: 3.8L V6 and turbocharged 3.8L V6” stand as integral components of the renowned “1987 Buick Riviera,” influencing its performance, character, and overall driving experience.
The 3.8L V6 engine, a naturally aspirated powerplant, provides a solid foundation for the Riviera’s performance capabilities. Its well-balanced design and ample displacement deliver a smooth and responsive driving experience, making it a suitable choice for everyday commutes and highway cruising.
For those seeking exhilarating performance, the turbocharged 3.8L V6 emerges as the optimal choice. The addition of a turbocharger dramatically enhances the engine’s power output, resulting in a surge of acceleration and spirited driving dynamics. This engine option transforms the Riviera into a true performance machine, capable of delivering an unforgettable driving experience.
The availability of diverse engine options caters to a broad spectrum of driving preferences and needs. The 3.8L V6 ensures a refined and composed driving experience, while the turbocharged 3.8L V6 unlocks the Riviera’s full performance potential. This thoughtful provision of engine choices empowers drivers to select the Riviera that best aligns with their driving style and aspirations.
Transmission
In the realm of automotive engineering, the “Transmission: Four-speed automatic” stands as a pivotal component within the framework of the “1987 Buick Riviera.” This carefully engineered transmission system plays a multifaceted role, directly impacting the vehicle’s performance, driving dynamics, and overall driving experience.
The four-speed automatic transmission in the 1987 Buick Riviera operates seamlessly, providing smooth and precise gear changes. Its meticulously calibrated gear ratios optimize the engine’s power delivery, ensuring efficient acceleration and effortless cruising at highway speeds. The automatic shifting mechanism relieves the driver from the task of manual gear selection, enhancing comfort and convenience during daily commutes or extended road trips.
Furthermore, this transmission system contributes to the Riviera’s refined and sophisticated character. Its sophisticated electronic controls monitor vehicle speed, engine RPM, and throttle position, adapting shift patterns to suit varying driving conditions. This intelligent adaptation ensures optimal performance, whether navigating city streets or tacklinghighways.
Understanding the connection between “Transmission: Four-speed automatic” and “1987 Buick Riviera” is crucial for appreciating the car’s overall design and engineering philosophy. This transmission system is not merely a functional component but an integral part of the Riviera’s identity as a luxurious and performance-oriented vehicle.
Features
The “Features: Power windows, power locks, air conditioning, premium sound system” form an integral part of the “1987 Buick Riviera,” contributing significantly to its luxurious and refined driving experience.
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Power Windows and Power Locks:
These features elevate convenience and ease of use. Power windows allow effortless opening and closing of windows with the touch of a button, while power locks provide added security and the ability to lock or unlock all doors simultaneously.
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Air Conditioning:
In the midst of warm or humid weather, air conditioning provides a cool and comfortable cabin environment. It enables precise temperature control, ensuring a refreshing and enjoyable journey for occupants.
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Premium Sound System:
A premium sound system transforms the Riviera into a concert hall on wheels. High-quality speakers and an enhanced audio system deliver an immersive and crystal-clear listening experience, making every drive more enjoyable.
These features collectively contribute to the 1987 Buick Riviera’s reputation as a luxurious and well-equipped vehicle. They enhance the comfort, convenience, and overall driving experience, making it a pleasure to own and operate.
Popularity
The “Popularity: Over 50,000 units sold” holds a significant connection to the “1987 Buick Riviera,” showcasing the vehicle’s widespread acceptance and commercial success.
The high sales figures indicate that the 1987 Buick Riviera resonated with a large number of consumers, establishing its position as a popular choice in the luxury coupe segment. This popularity can be attributed to the car’s captivating design, impressive performance, and luxurious features, which collectively appealed to a diverse range of buyers seeking a vehicle that combined style, comfort, and driving enjoyment.
Furthermore, the Riviera’s popularity contributed to the overall success of Buick as a brand. The strong sales performance of the Riviera helped to enhance Buick’s reputation for producing high-quality and desirable vehicles, further solidifying the brand’s position in the automotive market.
Understanding the connection between “Popularity: Over 50,000 units sold” and “1987 Buick Riviera” provides insights into the car’s market reception and its impact on the Buick brand. This understanding highlights the importance of consumer preferences and market demand in shaping the success of a vehicle, and underscores the enduring appeal of the 1987 Buick Riviera.
Significance
The connection between “Significance: Helped revive Buick’s brand image in the 1980s” and “1987 Buick Riviera” is significant, as the Riviera played a crucial role in restoring Buick’s reputation and repositioning the brand in the competitive automotive market of the 1980s.
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Design and Styling:
The 1987 Buick Riviera showcased a bold and distinctive design that departed from the boxy and conservative styling of previous Buick models. Its sleek lines, sharp angles, and elegant proportions exuded a sense of modernity and sophistication, capturing the attention of consumers and setting a new design direction for the Buick brand.
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Performance and Handling:
In addition to its striking design, the 1987 Buick Riviera offered impressive performance and handling capabilities. Its powerful V6 engines provided ample acceleration and smooth power delivery, while its advanced suspension system ensured responsive and agile handling, further enhancing the car’s appeal to driving enthusiasts.
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Luxury and Comfort:
The 1987 Buick Riviera epitomized luxury and comfort, offering a spacious and well-appointed interior. Premium materials, plush seating, and an array of amenities, including power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a premium sound system, created a refined and indulgent driving experience, aligning with Buick’s long-standing reputation for providing luxurious vehicles.
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Marketing and Positioning:
Buick’s marketing and positioning strategies for the 1987 Riviera were instrumental in its success. The car was marketed as a premium luxury coupe that combined style, performance, and comfort, appealing to a discerning clientele seeking a vehicle that reflected their aspirations and lifestyles, effectively repositioning Buick as a brand associated with sophistication and prestige.
The 1987 Buick Riviera’s combination of striking design, impressive performance, luxurious amenities, and effective marketing played a pivotal role in reviving Buick’s brand image in the 1980s. It showcased the brand’s commitment to innovation, style, and driving excellence, attracting new customers and rekindling the passion of loyal Buick enthusiasts.
FAQs on the 1987 Buick Riviera
The 1987 Buick Riviera, a luxurious and stylish personal coupe, has sparked numerous inquiries and discussions among automotive enthusiasts and potential buyers. Here, we address some frequently asked questions to shed light on the key aspects of this remarkable vehicle:
Question 1: What is the significance of the 1987 Buick Riviera?
The 1987 Buick Riviera played a crucial role in revitalizing Buick’s brand image in the 1980s. Its sleek design, impressive performance, and luxurious amenities showcased Buick’s commitment to innovation and quality, attracting new customers and rekindling the passion of loyal enthusiasts.
Question 2: What engine options were available for the Riviera in 1987?
The 1987 Buick Riviera offered two engine options: a 3.8L V6 engine delivering solid performance and a turbocharged 3.8L V6 engine providing exhilarating acceleration and spirited driving dynamics, catering to diverse preferences.
Question 3: How does the 1987 Riviera compare to its competitors?
The Riviera stood out in the personal luxury coupe segment, competing with vehicles like the Cadillac Eldorado and Lincoln Continental. Its distinctive design, advanced features, and impressive performance capabilities set it apart, attracting buyers seeking a unique blend of style, comfort, and driving enjoyment.
Question 4: What are the key features of the Riviera’s interior?
The interior of the 1987 Buick Riviera exudes luxury and comfort, featuring premium materials, plush seating, and an array of amenities. Power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a premium sound system enhance convenience and create a refined driving experience.
Question 5: How does the Riviera’s handling and performance compare to modern vehicles?
While the 1987 Buick Riviera’s handling and performance may not match the capabilities of modern sports cars, it offers a smooth and responsive driving experience for its time. Its advanced suspension system and powerful engine options provide a balanced and enjoyable ride.
Question 6: Is the 1987 Riviera a reliable and practical choice today?
As a classic car, the 1987 Buick Riviera may require more maintenance and upkeep compared to modern vehicles. However, its timeless design, enduring popularity, and availability of parts make it a cherished choice among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its unique character and historical significance.
In conclusion, the 1987 Buick Riviera remains an iconic vehicle that embodies style, performance, and luxury. Its significance in Buick’s history and its enduring appeal to enthusiasts make it a sought-after classic car today.
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Tips on Maintaining a 1987 Buick Riviera
Preserving the timeless elegance and performance of a 1987 Buick Riviera requires meticulous care and attention. Here are several crucial tips to guide you in maintaining your prized classic vehicle:
Tip 1: Regular Maintenance and Inspections
Adhere to a comprehensive maintenance schedule, including regular oil changes, fluid top-offs, and thorough inspections. This proactive approach helps detect potential issues early on, preventing minor problems from escalating into major repairs.
Tip 2: Protect the Exterior
The Riviera’s sleek exterior is susceptible to the elements. Regular washing, waxing, and paint touch-ups safeguard its finish, preserving its pristine appearance. Consider protective measures like car covers or ceramic coating for added protection.
Tip 3: Preserve the Interior
The luxurious interior of the Riviera requires special care. Regular vacuuming and cleaning maintain its pristine condition. Use leather conditioners to preserve the upholstery’s suppleness and prevent premature aging.
Tip 4: Monitor Tire Health
Proper tire maintenance ensures optimal performance and safety. Regularly check tire pressure, alignment, and tread depth. Replace tires as needed to maintain traction and handling.
Tip 5: Address Electrical Issues Promptly
Electrical problems can arise in older vehicles. Pay attention to any warning lights or unusual behavior. Seek professional assistance promptly to diagnose and resolve electrical issues, preventing potential hazards.
Tip 6: Maintain Suspension and Steering
A well-maintained suspension and steering system contribute to a smooth and controlled ride. Regularly inspect components like shocks, struts, and ball joints. Address any signs of wear or damage to ensure optimal handling and safety.
Tip 7: Original Parts and Expert Service
When replacing parts, prioritize using genuine or high-quality aftermarket components. Seek the expertise of qualified mechanics familiar with classic vehicles to ensure proper installation and maintenance.
Tip 8: Storage and Protection
If you plan to store your Riviera for extended periods, take precautions to protect it. Choose a dry and well-ventilated storage space. Disconnect the battery, add fuel stabilizer, and place the vehicle on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tires.
By following these tips and adhering to a diligent maintenance routine, you can preserve the pristine condition and timeless appeal of your 1987 Buick Riviera, ensuring its legacy for years to come.
Conclusion
The 1987 Buick Riviera stands as a testament to the enduring power of style, performance, and luxury in the automotive world. Its sleek design, advanced features, and impressive capabilities continue to captivate enthusiasts and collectors alike.
As we reflect on the legacy of the 1987 Buick Riviera, it serves as a reminder of the passion and innovation that drive automotive engineering. Its enduring popularity underscores the timeless appeal of vehicles that seamlessly blend elegance, performance, and comfort.