USA vs USA — 1971 vs 1965
| Riviera GS (Boattail) | Riviera Gran Sport 425 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 330 hp | 360 hp |
| Torque | 450 lb-ft | 465 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 6,965 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 7.5 sec | 7.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 120 mph | 130 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 15.5 sec | 15.3 sec |
| Weight | — | 4,500 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 3,048 mm | 3,073 mm |
| Length | 5,523 mm | 5,410 mm |
| Units Produced | — | 3,961 |
| Original MSRP | — | $4,424 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $95,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 7/10 |
Numbers favor the 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 with quicker acceleration, higher top speed, stronger collectibility. The 1971 Buick Riviera GS (Boattail) offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Buick Riviera. The 1971 and 1965 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 330 hp, a 30-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Riviera uses a V8 OHV 16V displacing 7,456 cc, while the Buick Riviera relies on a V8 OHV (Buick 425 Nailhead) with 6,965 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 edges ahead at 7.2 seconds versus 7.5 seconds. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1965 Buick Riviera Gran Sport 425 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.