It happens to the best of us, even seasoned automotive enthusiasts. The subtle nuances of classic cars can sometimes lead to misidentification, as was humorously highlighted when a writer, yours truly, initially mistook a stunning Buick Riviera. What was thought to be a 1966 model turned out to be its slightly younger sibling, a 1967 Buick Riviera Auto. This correction, prompted by keen-eyed readers and a touch of self-re-education, offers a perfect opportunity to delve into the fascinating details that set these iconic vehicles apart.
The initial article sparked some passionate feedback, a testament to the dedication of classic car aficionados. One particularly spirited reader even voiced his, albeit slightly overstated, disapproval of the initial mislabeling. This incident underscores a crucial point: the devil is in the details when it comes to vintage automobiles. While claiming expertise isn’t on the agenda – and transparency about continually learning is key – this journey of discovery into the world of classic cars, particularly the Buick Riviera auto, is one worth sharing.
Mistakes are, after all, learning opportunities. Just as previous articles had minor factual errors about a Volkswagen sand rail engine and a Chevrolet pickup model designation, the Buick Riviera auto presented another chance to refine understanding. The key is to embrace these corrections and use them to deepen our knowledge and appreciation for these automotive masterpieces.
Decoding the 1966 vs. 1967 Buick Riviera Auto
Further investigation into the Buick Riviera auto revealed the subtle yet significant changes implemented between the 1966 and 1967 models. While both years represent the second generation of this celebrated vehicle, a closer look uncovers distinct characteristics. One key mechanical difference lies under the hood: the 1966 Riviera boasted the renowned Nailhead V8 engine. However, the 1967 Buick Riviera auto saw this engine replaced with a more robust 430-cubic-inch big block eight-cylinder engine. For the untrained eye, distinguishing between these engines without a detailed inspection would be challenging.
Beyond the engine, the 1967 Buick Riviera auto also experienced a slight increase in weight, tipping the scales at 4,420 pounds, a mere 14 pounds heavier than the previous year. Again, this is a detail unlikely to be noticed without precise measurements.
However, the most readily apparent differences between the two model years are cosmetic. Subtle design tweaks provide visual cues for accurate identification. One such detail is the placement of the lock post on the interior door panels, positioned further back in the 1966 model. Furthermore, the 1967 Buick Riviera auto incorporated newly mandated safety features, elements not present in the 1966 version, though these are not immediately obvious to casual observers.
Spotting the Visual Cues: Grille and Script
The real “aha!” moments in differentiating the 1966 and 1967 Buick Riviera auto models come from two distinct cosmetic features. The 1967 model year introduced a horizontal chrome grille bar that gracefully extends over the flip-up headlight doors and parking lights. This addition provides an immediate visual distinction when comparing front-end designs.
Perhaps the most straightforward identifier, as highlighted by online resources and vintage Buick advertisements, is the hood ornamentation. On the 1966 Buick Riviera auto, the chrome identifier on the hood proudly displays the word “Riviera” in printed block letters. Conversely, the 1967 model elegantly presents the “Riviera” name in a cursive script. This simple detail, readily visible on the front of the car, serves as a definitive marker for distinguishing the two years. It was this cursive script on the hood that ultimately confirmed the car in question to be a 1967 Buick Riviera auto.
Meeting the Owner: A Passion for the Riviera
The owner of this particular 1967 Buick Riviera auto is Carl Vandurmen of Martinsville. His story of acquiring this classic car is one of persistence and passion. Vandurmen, a true Buick enthusiast, had admired this Riviera for four years, consistently attempting to persuade the previous owner to sell. Despite repeated refusals, Vandurmen’s admiration and desire for the car never waned.
Fate intervened when Vandurmen spotted the Riviera parked at the owner’s workplace. Seizing the opportunity, he made a lighthearted yet serious inquiry, joking, “Did you drive the car to work today to sell it to me?” While the initial response was still hesitant, Vandurmen’s offer lingered in the owner’s mind. Just a few days later, a text message arrived: the Riviera was ready to be sold. Vandurmen wasted no time, heading straight to Bedford to claim his prize and drive his dream car home.
Upon acquiring the 1967 Buick Riviera auto, Vandurmen embarked on a journey of restoration. The car, while a classic beauty, showed signs of age with faded paint, dents, scratches, and rust. Undeterred, Vandurmen undertook bodywork, applied a fresh coat of paint, and revitalized the Riviera to its former glory. Since its restoration, this stunning Buick Riviera auto has graced several car shows, a testament to Vandurmen’s dedication and the enduring appeal of this classic American automobile.
My Favorite Ride Continues
The journey of identifying classic cars is ongoing, filled with learning curves and delightful discoveries. The case of the 1967 Buick Riviera auto serves as a reminder that even perceived missteps can lead to deeper understanding and appreciation. Each car has a story, and each correction refines our knowledge. The road of automotive enthusiasm is paved with continuous learning, and that’s part of what makes it so rewarding.
