1997 Buick Riviera Review

Best since '69 225 Electra

Written by: lovethatriv on 06/24/2008

Vehicle

1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coupe

Review

This car is always a pleasure, even in the worst of circumstances. It has taken deep water on the road a few times with no problem. Once, when it did lose power, it maneouvred beautifully, and safely to the parking lane - no panic! However, at 11 years old, I get only 15-17 miles a gallon, but the performance and resulting safety are well worth it.

Favorite Features

This car is a top performer. It responds instantly and easily, making driving much safer. The ride, the seat comfort and ease of adjustment, the safety from its power potential (which has allowed me to avoid several accidents), are all superb - at 11 years old!

Suggested Improvements

I wish the sunroof/moonroof control were on the dashboard.

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Awesome

Written by: lisa m on 09/14/2007

Vehicle

1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coupe

Review

Great car. I have had this car since 1997. I have driven to date 233,335. Amazing huh? Very roomy and reliable.

Favorite Features

The seats are the most comfortable thing. The interior design is beautiful. It's great for long drives.

Suggested Improvements

Security wiring. My car sometimes thinks it's being stolen and cuts out engine until I can restart it later.

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Above the trend

Written by: turtleman on 06/10/2007

Vehicle

1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coupe

Review

Got it used with 150k miles - now at 160. It is an excellent car overall. Great power, utility, and exquisite design, in and out. The inside is just pure class and comfort with out the techno junk. Still looks great as far as paint and finish very solid chassis and drivetrain. Easy and effective to modify if your looking to improve performance. Not unreasonably expensive to buy.

Favorite Features

You are much cooler than the little boy in his GTP Grand Prix

Suggested Improvements

Fuel economy has room for improvement and handling is somewhat wishy-washy but still good considering it's a 4000lb FWD car.

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Disappointed in Buick

Written by: Bruce on 01/27/2007

Vehicle

1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coupe

Review

Bought as a dealer certified vehicle. Transmission went out in 5 months at 79,000 miles and at 86,000 miles intake, power steering, old pan, and transmission pan all leaks and will cost more to fix than trade value. Car was serviced every 3000 miles

Favorite Features

Beautiful style and comfortable when not in the shop

Suggested Improvements

Should have had the Buick quality. My '83 Regal has never had a non maintenance problem and has the same 3.8 type V-6

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Last sharp-looking Buick

Written by: LarryMit on 07/18/2005

Vehicle

1997 Buick Riviera 2 Dr STD Sprchgd Coupe

Review

I finally got my Riviera since lusting after the 1963 model when it came out. This is the best looking American car since 1963 and the last good-looking one. If only Buick would make another Riviera like this, I'd consider buying another Buick. Oh, well!

Favorite Features

Styling, comfort, interior room, durability of seating materials, performance, gas mileage.

Suggested Improvements

Supposedly "bullet-proof" Buick V-6 has leaked oil in every possible place. I got my money's worth from the extended warranty.

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