Buick Riviera

vs

Buick Roadmaster

USA vs USA — 1963 vs 1991

Buick Riviera (1963)
Buick Roadmaster (1991)
Specifications
Riviera 1st GenerationRoadmaster Estate Wagon
Horsepower325 hp180 hp
Torque425 lb-ft
Engine Size6,571 cc5,733 cc
0-60 mph8.0 sec
Top Speed120 mph
¼ Mile15.5 sec
Wheelbase3,023 mm2,944 mm
Length5,334 mm5,528 mm
Units Produced40,000
Value (Excellent)$65,000$30,000
Collectibility5/105/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

It's a closely fought contest. The 1963 Buick Riviera 1st Generation brings more power to the table, and the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon answers with better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.

Overview

Buick has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1963 Buick Riviera 1st Generation with the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1963 Buick Riviera 1st Generation holds a clear advantage in raw power with 325 hp compared to 180 hp, a 145-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Riviera uses a V8 OHV displacing 6,571 cc, while the Buick Roadmaster relies on a V8 with 5,733 cc. On the collector market, the 1963 Buick Riviera 1st Generation commands a significant premium over the 1991 Buick Roadmaster Estate Wagon, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.