Image of 1981 Buick Riviera, sourced from www.autobarnclassiccars.com , Image Link.

1981 Buick Riviera: A Touch of Class and Innovation

The 1981 Buick Riviera glides into the annals of automotive history with a blend of elegance and technological prowess that still resonates among classic car enthusiasts today. Born from the esteemed Buick division of General Motors, this luxury coupe was a testament to American automotive craftsmanship in an era where opulence met the road. With its sleek lines and sophisticated presence, the Riviera was not just a car; it was a statement. A unique fact that might pique your interest is that the '81 Riviera was one of the first cars to offer a computer command control for its engine, marking it as an early adopter of electronic engine management.

Design and Innovation

The exterior styling of the 1981 Riviera was both contemporary and classic, featuring a long hood, short deck proportion, and subtle use of chrome that exuded luxury without being ostentatious. Inside, occupants were greeted with plush seating and an array of conveniences wrapped in premium materials such as genuine leather and wood trim. The technological features were ahead of their time, with options like automatic climate control and an advanced stereo system. Color options ranged from deep blacks to vibrant reds, with popular choices often reflecting the era's penchant for earth tones. The most iconic body style was undoubtedly the two-door coupe, which offered various trim levels including the luxurious Limited Edition.

Historical Significance

The 1981 Riviera made its mark by offering a level of personal luxury that set it apart from other vehicles in its class. Its front-wheel-drive platform was innovative for a luxury coupe at the time, providing more interior space and better handling characteristics. This model year also saw the introduction of the V6 turbocharged engine option, which would influence future powertrain strategies across the industry.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its refined exterior lay a capable powerplant. The standard V6 engine provided adequate performance, while the optional V8 engines – including a 5.7-liter diesel – catered to those seeking more thrust. For those desiring spirited driving, the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 was the choice du jour, pushing the Riviera from 0-60 mph in respectable times for its day. On winding roads or when cruising over imperfections, the Riviera maintained composure, offering a serene driving experience that was complemented by the hushed purr of its engine.

Ownership Experience

The 1981 Buick Riviera found its niche both as a daily driver for those who appreciated finer automobiles and as a showpiece for collectors. Maintenance was typical for cars of this era, with reliability generally considered good for well-maintained examples. Parts availability and ease of repair made it an accessible classic for enthusiasts.

Fun Facts

Did you know that some '81 Rivieras found their way into celebrity garages? Or that this model year stood out for introducing a convertible version later on during its production cycle? Despite facing some criticism over performance limitations compared to European rivals, it held its own as an American luxury icon.

Collector's Information

Today, values for a well-preserved 1981 Buick Riviera can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and options. While production numbers were not exceedingly low, finding one in pristine condition can be challenging. As such, prices can range significantly but typically fall between $5,000 to $15,000 depending on various factors. The market has shown appreciation for well-kept examples of this model year.

Conclusion

The 1981 Buick Riviera stands as a testament to an era where luxury met innovation on America's highways. With its distinctive design and forward-thinking features, it remains a beloved piece of automotive history that continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike.

1981 Buick Riviera Front coil-spring insulator-BN 110Front coil-spring insulator. Fits '41-'60 Oldsmobile and '50-'83 GM passenger models. 5-3/8 in. OD x 3-3/4 in. ID x 3/4 in. high with 13/16 in. wide bottom flange 1/4" thick, 12 flutes. Each.

1981 Buick Riviera Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores-IS-MW00101Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores. 1-3/8" X 3/4" X 17'. Each

1981 Buick Riviera Molded Door Seals. For 2-door hardtop. Pair R&L-LM 18-QMolded Door Seals. For 2-door hardtop. Pair R&L

1981 Buick Riviera Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide-M 30Trunk Liner. Loose weave, jet black. 50" wide. Sold by the foot

1981 Buick Riviera Trunk seal-MW00101Trunk seal. Also replaces '75-'79 Buick Skylark hatchback seal. Made with steel cores. 1-3/8 in. x 3/4 in. x 17 ft. L. Each.

1981 Buick Riviera Basic Kit, for 2-Door Hardtop-RKB 2007-119Basic Kit, for 2-Door Hardtop. Door (LM 18-Q) Roof Rail (RR 5010-B) Trunk (MW00101), Seals.

1981 Buick Riviera Brake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861-RP 2-EBrake Master Cylinder Cover Seal. Replaces OEM #5470861. 5" X 2-1/2". Each

1981 Buick Riviera Molded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L-RR 5010-BMolded Roof Rail Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair R&L

1981 Buick Riviera Rear Roll-Up Quarter Window Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop-VS 3-ZRear Roll-Up Quarter Window Seals, for 2-Door Hardtop. Pair

1981 Buick Riviera Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 211Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 15/16" X 3/4". Each

1981 Buick Riviera Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel-WF 213Rear Windshield Reveal Molding Clip. Made of steel. 7/8" X 5/8". Each

1981 Buick Riviera Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon-WF 214Lower Side Window Reveal Molding Clip. Made of nylon. 1-1/4" x 3/4". Each