1994 Buick Riviera review from North America
"Fast personal luxury car, not for the family"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Serpentine Belt replaced at 20,000mi.
Water Pump replace at 20,000mi.
Electric window motors replaced twice within 2 years.
Factory tires didn't make 20,000 miles.
Rear window was poor fit, lots of sealant used.
Trunk leaks in heavy rain.
Fuel cap release failed.
General comments?
Despite all the above mentioned problems this is probably the most comfortable performance, luxury car I have owned.
Good high speed handling qualities, over-steers a bit which takes getting used to.
Great acceleration both from a stop and passing. Super charger a must on the 3.8 six cylinder.
Super gas mileage, 29-31 on highway with a very generous fuel tank.
Very quite at all speeds.
There are some warts.
The doors are very heavy, especially on a slope.
Rear seat access is difficult, but once seated very comfortable.
Slope of the roof invites water into the doors when opened in the rain. Results in the window motors failing.
Seat belt recall not well publicized.
Everything is expensive to fix.
Leather seats are not good quality (read thin), Buick makes fine leather interiors why not in the Riviera?
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | 1995 - Riviera 2 dr. coupe 3.8 supercharged I love this car!!! |
![]() ![]() | 1989 - Riviera NA 3.8 litre V6 Man... what a beautiful buzz... what a beautiful buzz |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| First year of ownership | 1994 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2003 |
| Engine and transmission | 3.8 Supercharged Automatic |
| Performance marks | 10/10 |
| Reliability marks | 9/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 7/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 1200 miles |
| Most recent distance | 97000 miles |
| Previous car | GMC Van |
| Date of Entry | 3rd January, 2003 |

