Ground-Up Restored "Boattail" Riviera 455ci V8 Automatic Air Conditioning

Few cars from the early '70s made waves like the 1971 Buick Riviera. All-new and unapologetically bold, the third-generation Riviera debuted with sweeping lines, curvaceous fenders, and one of the most controversial rear-end designs to ever hit the road. That flowing, tapered tail earned the nickname “boattail” for its resemblance to the stern of a yacht, and today it remains one of the most recognizable shapes of the era. Add in Buick's Gran Sport (GS) package, and you've got a unique mix of personal luxury and genuine performance.

This particular 1971 Riviera GS Sport Coupe benefits from a complete ground-up restoration and shows beautifully in its original color, Vintage Red…a deep, metallic ruby hue that gives the sculpted bodywork a dramatic glow. Accented by a black vinyl roof, polished trim, and gleaming chrome bumpers, it's a striking machine from every angle. Signature Riviera cues like the rear decklid louvers, quad T3 headlights, and hidden windshield wipers add to the distinctive look. At each corner sit correct 15-inch Buick Rallye wheels wrapped in Toyo whitewall tires, completing the period-correct presence. 'Riviera GS' badging on the lower fenders quietly calls out the performance pedigree.

Under the hood, the big Buick carries a torquey 455 cubic inch V8, featuring casting number 1238861 and topped with a 4-barrel Rochester Quadrajet carburetor. The GS package added a chrome air cleaner and mild performance tweaks to the engine, giving this car stronger off-the-line grunt and high-speed poise. The heavy duty TH400 3-speed automatic transmission routes power to a 12-bolt rear axle with 3.42 gears and a Positraction differential, all standard GS features. Also part of the Gran Sport upgrade was firmer suspension and quick-ratio steering, making this full-sized cruiser surprisingly capable when the road gets twisty. Power front disc brakes and rear drums, along with factory power steering, keep the ride controlled and smooth.

Inside, the Riviera continues to impress with a fully restored black vinyl interior that blends sport and comfort. The front bucket seats feature a power-operated driver's seat, and a long center console houses the unique, cantilevered shifter. The dash is finished in handsome engine-turned trim, with controls angled toward the driver for a cockpit-like feel. Contrasting woodgrain accents appear on the three-spoke steering wheel, console, and door panels, giving the cabin a warm, upscale vibe. Front and rear seating is finished with elegant, luxury-style stitching. Factory options include power windows, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio, rounding out a spec sheet that was quite impressive in 1971.

While the boattail Riviera stirred up plenty of controversy when it debuted, decades later, it still stands out…because it dared to be different. Today, it draws admiration from enthusiasts of all generations. Seeing one this well restored in its striking red over black color combo with the full GS package is a rare treat. It's the kind of car that sneaks up on you. You might not expect to love it, until you see it up close.

Key Highlights

* Ground-up restoration
* Gran Sport package
* 455ci Buick V8
* TH400 3-speed automatic transmission
* Rochester 4-barrel carburetor
* 12 bolt rear axle with 3.42 gearing
* Positraction differential
* Correct Vintage Red on Black color combination
* Power-operated driver's seat
* Factory power windows
* Factory power brakes (discs front, drums rear)
* Factory power steering
* Factory air conditioning