Buick Riviera

Price Paid:  $18000.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
1998 2 dr Supercharged

Summary:
I got a GREAT price on this car, and haven't had any problems. Granted, its not a 'sports sedan' like its billed to be, but its sure is a great value for one heck of a lot of car. I'd recommend that you at least test drive one, though its not what everyone is looking for.

Strengths:
I love the Riv's power, though it is a heavy car. It looks great, and the interior is full of thoughtful touches. The stereo is flawless, as well. Nobody ever whines about having to sit in back - it has uncommonly comfy rear seats for a 2 dr. Wonderfully quiet and smooth. I really like the big 2 dr nature of this beast. With the windows down and the stereo up, its a lot of fun. The trunk is cavernous, as well.

Weaknesses:
The car is too heavy for its own good, I think. A 70 yr old wouldn't mind its performance, but the styling sells to much younger buyers, so it seems like Buick sort of mismatched performance and styling. Some dash bits are bit cheesy, and I'm glad I don't have young kids that mess around with it, because I'm sure they'd break on bend something. Also, the ride can be considered a bit too comfy. I find myself almost falling asleep in it sometimes.

Similar Products Used:
96 Caddy Eldo - About equal. The Caddy is even cushier, but the Buick is sleeker, and I had a few more maintenance issues with the Caddy.

Price Paid:  $18000.00

Year / Model Reviewed:
1998 buick riviera

Summary:
this car is a great mix of speed and luxury. a true sport luxury car. it's got flash, but not to much. it's very functional. looks great....great lines. more than enough power to satisfy a 17 year old males need for speed. Also a very safe feeling car. has a very stout front bumper...u cant see it from looking at it..just looks like a thin plastic deal...but open the hood and look infront of the radiator and u will see what i mean.
dual air bags and well designed seat belts also give u peace of mind. there is even shoulder belts for the rear passengers. So to sum it up....this car can take 4 grown people...in comfort and style...and get them to there destination quickly and safely...i really couldnt ask for more in a car...and im being completely honest. give this car a chance...and hey....it's a pretty rare car..wont see 100 of them running down the road with u like camaros and mustangs...and u can even keep up with some of those guys =)

Strengths:
power,style,comfort,quality,dependabilty,makes u want to drive it and not come home. This car goes! Im only 17, and this is my moms car but i get to drive it often, and i can honestly say this car hauls butt. especially off the line. it pins u pretty good. I've grew up with trucks and not so fast cars...but when i first got to drive this i was blown away. it's only a high 15 second car on the drag strip....but it feels like a jet. The power suprises alot of people. When u put your foot in it...and it down shifts...u wont be disspointed. This car is also very comfortable. Any where u sit in the car your comfortable. Im 5'10 and 300 pounds...and i fit in it just fine. The seats move any way u can imagine and there heated when u need it...a very nice feature. I love the dash...wraps around the whole car...and tons of guages. I read another review that said this was a bad thing...but i dont agree with that. It gives the car a very user friendly feel. there is a ton of a\c vents for the summer....even in the back. the stereo cranks pretty good...and convient storage for your extra cd's. The moon roof is very nice. I really havent found a flaw on the car. At the very least drive this car and you will see. It's very addictive.....makes long trips very comfy and fun.

Weaknesses:
it's hard for me to think of many but i will try....cause i know nothing is perfect. Power is great, but when u load it with a few big guys u can feel the difference. so if you plan on racing go alone. Also i dont like the 110 mph govenor. I havent taken it that fast...but it would make me feel better if i knew the car would let me top of the speedo. I know the car could do the 120 mph on the speedo...and i believe u could hit 140 mph with it if it let u. Another thing is when something breaks..it's exspensive to fix. The only thing we have had to replace is the alternator. started to make noise and create dust. it was probably the bearing. Luckily it was under warranty and only cost us the 100 deductable. hmmm...what else? breaks squeak a bit..but are solid. a little body roll in the corners...but once u get used to it then it's fine.

Similar Products Used:
well nothing like this. The only other thing i drive is a 90 ford bronco...and thats no comparison to this..whole different type of vehicle. I can say this is the nicest, fastest. most enjoyable car i have ever driven...wouldnt change it for anything. my mom chose this car over camaros and mustangs and i thank her for it!

Price Paid:  $0.00

Summary:
My best description of the BUICK RIVIERA is "LUXURY SPORTS COUPE". Its in a class of its own. My 1998 Riviera is not only luxury but it''s also very quick (I seriously almost beat a 2001 vette). The car is a classic waiting to happen.

Price Paid:  $12000.00 from Dealership

Summary:
This car is a big piece of junk. My 2000 Honda Accord V6 kicks the crap outta it. And my 350Z is one in a million in comparison to the Buick. Buick did some things right with this car, the seats and and quietness of the engine but that is all. I would rather drive a japanese car ANYDAY.

Strengths:
It has a pretty gutsy engine, but I was expecting more. Leather seats are comfortable, but I dont want a car to just make my ass feel good.

Weaknesses:
Sound system is weak. Engine needs more juice. Already changed the fuel pump, fan belts, and alternator. Next on the list is the transmission because its shot too. Rather drive a Honda or Nissan.

Similar Products Used:
NON

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Price Paid:  $12900.00 from Camp Chev

Year / Model Reviewed:
1998 Buick Riviera

Summary:
The many features make the Riviera a luxerous ride...that can beat an Accord, Civic, or Corolla S in a one block race (1/4 mi?). Once that Supercharger kicks in its all over, I rarely have to wind up past 3k rpm to dust most people. And your passengers in their comfortable leather seats usually fail to notice you just smoked a rice-burner on the green light. You usually have to cruise around 90 for your passengers to notice you happen to be travelling rather fast. The rear-passengers (under 6') have plenty of room, with comfortable seats.

Strengths:
Comfort, Luxury Power, Speed....with silence. Concert Sound Temperature Control Cockpit feel Smooth ride Mirrors adjust automatically when reversing

Weaknesses:
Back seat does not fold down. Loose suspenion provides smooth ride, but worsens tight cornering To many buttons for simpletons to use (I like buttons) Lights are always on. I like to be able to turn them off (daylight running lights) American made cars still fail to guarantee their products like competitors do.

Similar Products Used:
Test Drove many vehicles. Mustang(V6) to small and weak. Accord small and overpriced. Dodge Stratus, Intrepid...not impressed. Oldsmobile...umm not. Pontiacs were nice, Grand Am, Grand Pre, Bonnaville