In the early 1970s, Buick was facing stiff competition from their counterparts at Ford. The Personal Luxury segment has become highly popular among the American public, promising to provide luxury and performance often found in European luxury cars at a fraction of the cost. The introduction of the 1971 Riviera caused quite a stir in the automotive community after its debut/ While its comfort and performance well universally applauded, the new boattail styling created a divide; some believed this was the most attractive automotive design in decades while others felt the new appearance was a mistake. Buck softened the boattail design slightly for 1972, quickly putting an end to the debate: this update was indeed a work of automotive art. This 1973 Buick Riviera was extremely well-equipped from the factory with the Grand Sport package, air conditioning, power windows, and a vinyl roof. The Grand Sport package, or GS trim, turned a competent luxury car into a shocking performer by offering a high-performance engine, a sport-calibrated Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission, a 3.54:1 positive traction differential, heavy-duty suspension, and special whitewall tires. Power output increased to 330 horsepower with the use of larger valves and a higher lift camshaft. Reception of the Riviera GS was overwhelmingly positive, with critics going so far as to say, "there's nothing better being made on these shores." Finished in Harvest Gold paint over brown saddle vinyl, this GS epitomizes the fourth generation Riviera's styling. It is in excellent condition throughout, and the 455 cubic inch V8 performs flawlessly. It is offered with the original Rallye-style wheels as well as the currently installed wire-spoke wheels and is ready for the open road ahead.
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