1965 Buick Riviera Sport Coupe

For 1965, Buick introduced the 'Gran Sport' option on the Riviera. It included the dual-quad Super Wildcat 425 V8 engine, a 3.42 axle ratio, and a stiffer, heavy-duty suspension. The stock dual exhaust was replaced with a high performance system. The 401 cubic-inch (6.6 liter) V8 returned as the standard Riviera engine and the Super Turbine 400 transmission retained the variable pitch torque converter, fitted with a three-speed gear selector.

Externally, the non-functional side scoops between the doors and rear wheel arches were removed, and the taillights were moved from the body into the rear bumper. A vinyl roof became available as an option, initially offered only in black.

Inside, the Riviera featured a four-place cabin with bucket seats front and rear, separated by a center console with a floor shifter and storage compartment that was built into the instrument panel. A deluxe interior option included real walnut inserts on the doors and below the rear side windows.

The 1963-1965 Riviera met with the approval of Jaguar founder and designer Sir William Lyons, who said that Bill Mitchell had done 'a very wonderful job.' In addition, Sergio Pininfarina declared it 'one of the most beautiful American cars ever built; it has marked a very impressive return to simplicity of American car design.' Designer, Raymond Loewy said the Riviera was 'the handsomest American production car-apart from his Avanti.' The first-generation Riviera is considered a styling landmark, and is quite collectible today.