Buick Riviera (8th gen)

The eighth-generation Riviera (1995-1999) was the final model of Buick's long-running personal luxury coupe line — and the one most identified by enthusiasts today. Built on GM's G-platform shared with the Oldsmobile Aurora and (in part) Cadillac Eldorado/Seville. Two engines: 3.8L L36 Series II V6 NA (205 hp) standard; 3.8L L67 supercharged Series II V6 (240 hp / 280 lb-ft) optional and the volume seller. 4T65E four-speed automatic. FWD only. Two-door coupe body — Buick's last new coupe for the US market. Radical-for-Buick aero styling that broke completely from previous Riviera tradition: long flowing surfaces, no chrome accents, modern proportions. Reception in period was mixed — Buick traditionalists found it too radical, but motoring press largely praised it. Sales were modest and the model was killed for 1999 with the broader decline of the personal luxury coupe segment. Total eighth-gen production approximately 41,000 cars across the run. Now firmly affordable used and quietly cult-status — supercharged examples are particularly desirable.