The Buick Riviera received a facelift in 1968 with new front sheet metal and a hefty grille that was almost (but not quite) as clunky as the Oldsmobile Toronado. Calendar year production took a big jump for Buick to 652,059 units, but everybody’s sales increased, so the division stayed in fifth place nationally. Base price was $4,615, making the ’68 Riviera Buick’s most expensive model.

The Riviera’s engine remained the 430 cid V-8, now good for 360 bhp, though additional weight slowed it slightly to 0-60 mph in 8.1 seconds and a 15.9 second quarter-mile. Top speed was 125-132 mph depending on the magazine that was testing the car. Tom McCahill of Mechanix Illustrated called the Rivera “just about the best of any 1968 car we have tested.”

Standard Riviera equipment included the 3-speed Super Turbine transmission, dual exhaust, power steering, power brakes, two-speed electric wipers with washers, safety buzzers and warning lights, tilt and telescopic steering column, upper and lower dash safety pads, console gear selector, walnut paneling on the dash and full carpeting.

1968 Buick Rivera options included air conditioning, power windows, power front disc brakes, four- and six-way power seats, tinted glass, cruise control, cornering lights, wire wheel covers, five-spoke chrome wheels and an automatic trunk release.