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1970 Buick Riviera
2dr Sport Coupe
8-cyl. 455cid/370hp 4bbl
#1 Concours condition#1 Concours
#2 Excellent condition#2 Excellent
#3 Good condition#3 Good
$16,400*
+5.1%
#4 Fair condition#4 Fair
Apr 2025
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1966-1970 Buick Riviera stats
Highest sale
$95,700
Lowest sale
$1,375
Most recent sale
$71,500
Sales
244
Photos
40 photosImages may not reflect selected vehicle.
Past sales
$27,500
1967 Buick Riviera Base
24030 M
Automatic
North America
Jan 15, 2025Mecum Auctions
View details
$13,312
1966 Buick Riviera Base
97000 M
Automatic
North America
Nov 6, 2024AutoHunter
View details
$2,420
1970 Buick Riviera Base
58000 M
Automatic
North America
Oct 2, 2024Bring a Trailer
View details
$12,100
1969 Buick Riviera Base
38364 M
Automatic
North America
Sep 5, 2024Mecum Auctions
View details
$1,375
1967 Buick Riviera Base
14635 M
Automatic
North America
Sep 4, 2024Mecum Auctions
View details
$11,502
1966 Buick Riviera Base
35127 MILES
Automatic
North America
Aug 14, 2024Hagerty Marketplace
View details
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Model overview
Model description
The 1970 Buick Riviera was a fairly big departure from the year before with open headlights and skirted rear fenders. Buick production dropped almost 250,000 units in 1970 to 459,931, but everybody else saw their numbers drop as well, and the division held onto fourth place nationally. Riviera sales plunged from 52,872 unit to 37,366, of which 3,505 were Gran Sports with the $132 handling package that included stiffer springs and shocks and a limited-slip. Gran Sports often had Strato bucket front seats and console automatic shifter. Base Riviera price was $4,854, still the most expensive model in the company’s lineup.
The redesigned 1970 Riviera featured a new vertical grille between four open headlights, now pushed to the side of the grille. Fine grille bars swept downward behind the front bumper and the rear bumper was redesigned altered for larger taillights. The Riviera’s sides could be accented by long sweep-spears and the rear fenders smoothed off to accept skirts, if you so desired. Vinyl roofs were common. Though buyers didn’t flock to the 1970 Buick Riviera initially, the model has become a favorite with low-riders in recent years.
A new engine developed 370 bhp from 455 cid and the GS model could do 0-60 mph in 7.9 seconds, on its way to 125 mph. Standard Riviera equipment included the 3-speed Turbo-Hydramatic transmission, dual exhaust, power steering, anti-theft steering lock ignition on the collapsible tilt column, power brakes, two-speed electric wipers with washers, safety buzzers and warning lights, upper and lower dash safety pads, console gear option, walnut paneling on the dash and full carpeting. Carpeted lower door panels were optional.
Other Riviera options included air conditioning, power windows, power front disc brakes, four- and six-way power seats, tinted glass, cruise control, wire wheel covers, 5-spoke chrome wheels and AM/FM stereo.
The five millionth Buick was built at the Doraville, Ga. Plants this year. It was a Le Sabre Custom 4-door Hardtop.
Vehicle specifications
- Shipping Weight4216 lbs
- Vehicle Length215.5 in
- Wheelbase - Inches119 in
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Common Questions
The value of a 1970 Buick Riviera can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $16,400 for a 1970 Buick Riviera in good condition with average spec.
The highest selling price of a 1970 Buick Riviera at auction over the last three years was $16,500. The highest prices are usually reserved for rare or exceptionally well-maintained examples with desirable features or modifications and excellent history.
The lowest selling price of a 1970 Buick Riviera at auction over the last three years was $2,420. The lowest prices are usually paid for examples that have extensive maintenance needs, differ greatly from their original configuration, or have accident histories or title problems.
In the last three years there have been 3 1970 Buick Rivieras sold at public auction.
The most recent auction sale of a 1970 Buick Riviera was $2,420 on October 02, 2024 by Bring a Trailer.
Many factors can increase a car's value including excellent condition, exceptional originality, a recent restoration, low mileage, unique provenance, desirable options, popular or unique color choices, and excellent maintenance records. Upgrades and modifications that enhance performance or aesthetics can also add value.
Factors that can decrease a car's value include unusually high mileage, poor maintenance history, visible wear and tear, accidents or damage, title issues, and gaps in ownership history. Additionally, less popular color choices and extensive modifications that don't appeal to a broad audience can reduce value.
Mileage plays a significant role in a classic car’s value. Lower mileage usually increases value because it indicates a higher degree of originality, is rarer, and suggests less wear and tear. However, cars with exceptionally low mileage may also have maintenance needs due to lack of use. Whether someone should pay more for a vehicle with lower miles will depend on how they plan on using it, and the vehicle's specific condition.
The value of modified cars differs widely based on the type and quality of modifications. While some modifications can significantly increase value, especially performance enhancements and high-quality custom work, others may not add much or could even detract from the car’s value if they appeal to only a limited audience.