1990-1993 Buick Riviera: Road Test

Adding those 11 inches to the Riviera's length for 1989 did not increase interior room. All told, the quiet-running coupe was not as roomy as its exterior dimensions suggest. Sure, you do get plenty of luxury and convenience features in the plush interior; but space is adequate for only four people and their luggage. Climbing into the back also demands maneuvering around the seatbelts and squeezing through a narrow opening. Over-the-shoulder visibility is obscured by wide rear pillars, while the large, heavy doors need a lot of room to open. Acceleration from the Riv's 3.8-liter engine ranges from adequate to peppy and spirited, depending on the circumstances. The early (1990) automatic transmission didn't always respond quickly to the throttle. An improved automatic for '91 yielded passing response that was consistently prompt. The gutsy engine and improved automatic transmission combine for brisk acceleration and smooth power delivery. Fuel-economy tests of a 1990 model averaged 17 mpg: 20 mpg on suburban expressways, but less than 15 in the city. Ride and handling are competent, and the Riviera is quite agile as well, with good high-speed stability. The soft base suspension puts ride comfort over handling ability. A Gran Touring package with its wider tires and stiffer suspension improves handling and yields a more controlled feel, at some cost in ride comfort. Antilock braking produces sure, stable stops, even under slippery conditions. Instruments and controls are far more logical than in earlier Rivieras. Positioning of climate and stereo controls, high on the dash within easy reach of the driver, is another "plus." The Riviera's wide trunk has a flat floor, but isn't very deep, or shaped to hold more than a couple of large suitcases.

Value for the Money
Despite its enhanced appearance, the early '90s Riviera does nothing exceptional and doesn't stand high on our older luxury-coupe shopping list. Though far beyond earlier Rivs in acceleration, handling, and stability, this version simply doesn't offer quite as much as we'd expect for its still-lofty price.