A true piece of American automotive history has resurfaced and is now available to the highest bidder. A 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport—originally unveiled at the 1964 New York Auto Show—is currently listed for sale on the popular online auction platform Bring a Trailer.
The vehicle, a standout model from one of Buick’s most revered design eras, holds historical significance as the exact car showcased by the automaker during one of the country’s most prominent auto exhibitions. The 1965 Riviera, widely regarded as the pinnacle of the Riviera’s first generation, features a unique one-year-only design that includes concealed headlights hidden behind clamshell doors—a feature introduced specifically for the 1965 model year.
This particular car is a Gran Sport variant, equipped with Buick’s most powerful engine offering at the time: a 425-cubic-inch V8 with dual four-barrel carburetors. From the factory, the engine produced 360 horsepower and 465 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain includes a three-speed automatic transmission and factory-original 15-inch Rally wheels.
The Riviera’s design was considered revolutionary during its debut, earning praise for its clean lines, long body, and seamless integration of European-inspired luxury with American muscle. Buick’s decision to name the model after the French Riviera reflected its aim to compete not just with domestic rivals like Ford’s Thunderbird, but also with international grand touring coupes.
The car on auction has undergone a comprehensive cosmetic restoration completed in 2023, including a respray in its original Verde Green color and refreshed chrome components. According to the listing, the Gran Sport badging was also replaced to restore the car’s factory appearance. In addition to exterior refinements, the suspension system has been overhauled with new bushings and ball joints, and Bilstein shock absorbers have been fitted to enhance ride quality without sacrificing period authenticity.
Mechanically, the V8 engine was last rebuilt in 2012 and is reported to be in good condition. The braking system remains true to the original configuration with four-wheel drum brakes. While not designed for modern performance, the Riviera retains the character and ride quality that made it a favorite among luxury coupe enthusiasts of its era.
The car’s interior features several period-appropriate options including a power driver’s seat, power windows, cruise control, and a full suite of gauges. These amenities, considered luxurious for the time, add to the car’s appeal as a roadworthy classic rather than a static showpiece.
This vehicle also has an interesting ownership history. It was held by a single owner—a retired U.S. Navy fighter pilot—for over 40 years. The seller notes that the car was well-maintained during this time and reflects the meticulous care of its long-term custodian.
The 1965 Buick Riviera has long been a favorite among collectors, not only for its limited production features but also for its place in popular culture. One of the model’s most notable admirers was actor Leonard Nimoy, who drove an early 1963 Riviera to the set during the filming of Star Trek. Nimoy’s choice contrasted with co-star William Shatner, who drove a Corvette, highlighting the Riviera’s blend of restraint and performance as a more “logical” option—true to Nimoy’s famously stoic character, Spock.
In recent years, Bring a Trailer has become a trusted platform for the sale of premium vintage and collector vehicles. The auction of this Riviera has already generated buzz within the classic car community, not only for its rarity and condition but also for its provenance as a former auto show display vehicle. Listings of this caliber often attract both domestic and international attention, especially among serious collectors who value originality and historical relevance.
The one-year-only design of the 1965 Riviera continues to make it a sought-after model. Its distinct styling, coupled with the performance enhancements offered by the Gran Sport package, make this example particularly rare. Furthermore, being the exact unit displayed by Buick during its public unveiling in 1964 adds an irreplaceable layer of significance.
Bidding on Bring a Trailer is expected to be competitive, as opportunities to acquire such well-documented, historically significant vehicles are increasingly rare. For the winning bidder, this Riviera offers not just the chance to own a collectible car, but to become a steward of a unique chapter in American automotive history.
With its blend of beauty, power, and provenance, this 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport stands as a testament to an era when design and performance merged seamlessly. As the auction continues, it remains to be seen which collector will secure this legendary ride—but what’s certain is that its next journey will be one for the history books.
