Hey car enthusiasts! Let's dive into the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type, a classic that blends luxury with a sporty edge. Understanding the specs and performance of this model can give you a real appreciation for its design and engineering. Whether you're a long-time Buick fan or just curious about vintage cars, this deep dive will cover everything you need to know.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type is its engine. The standard engine was a 3.8-liter V6, which, while not the most powerful, provided a smooth and reliable ride. For those looking for a bit more pep, there was also an optional 3.8-liter turbocharged V6. This turbo variant significantly boosted the car's performance, making it a more exciting drive. The turbocharged engine was a standout feature, offering a noticeable increase in horsepower and torque compared to the base model. This made the T-Type a desirable option for drivers who wanted a blend of comfort and performance.

Horsepower figures for the base engine typically hovered around 110 horsepower, while the turbocharged version could deliver around 165-170 horsepower. Torque was also significantly improved with the turbo, offering better acceleration and overall responsiveness. The turbo lag, a common issue with early turbo engines, was present but manageable, adding to the car's unique character. The transmission was a 4-speed automatic, designed to provide smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission was well-matched to both engine options, contributing to a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience. Fuel economy was reasonable for its time, with the base engine offering around 18-20 mpg in the city and 25-28 mpg on the highway. The turbocharged version saw a slight decrease in fuel economy, but the trade-off in performance was often considered worth it. The Riviera T-Type's suspension was tuned to offer a balance between comfort and handling. It featured a * MacPherson strut front suspension* and an independent rear suspension, providing a smooth ride while still allowing for decent cornering. The T-Type package included specific suspension enhancements, such as stiffer springs and shocks, which further improved handling and reduced body roll. Overall, the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type offered a compelling combination of luxury and performance, making it a memorable car from the mid-1980s.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

The exterior design of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type is distinctive and reflects the era's styling trends. It features a sleek, aerodynamic profile with clean lines and a bold front end. The T-Type package added sporty touches such as blacked-out trim, unique badging, and specific wheel designs, enhancing its visual appeal. The car's dimensions contributed to its comfortable ride and spacious interior. It had a length of approximately 205 inches, a width of around 71 inches, and a height of about 54 inches. These dimensions gave the Riviera a substantial presence on the road while maintaining a manageable size for everyday driving.

The front end of the Riviera T-Type is characterized by its rectangular headlights and a prominent grille. The T-Type package often included a blacked-out grille, which added to its sporty appearance. The hood sloped gently down to meet the grille, contributing to the car's aerodynamic shape. Along the sides, the Riviera featured clean, uncluttered lines with minimal chrome trim. The T-Type package typically included blacked-out window trim and body side moldings, further enhancing its sporty look. The rear end of the Riviera was equally distinctive, with horizontal taillights that spanned the width of the car. The T-Type package often included a subtle rear spoiler, which added a touch of sportiness without being overly aggressive. The wheel options for the 1985 Riviera T-Type included both standard and T-Type specific designs. The T-Type wheels were typically alloy wheels with a sporty design, complementing the car's overall aesthetic. The paint options for the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type were varied, with both solid and metallic colors available. The T-Type package often included unique color combinations, such as black or dark gray exterior paint with red or silver accents. These color schemes further enhanced the car's sporty and aggressive appearance. Overall, the exterior design of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was a stylish and well-executed blend of luxury and sportiness, making it a standout car of its era.

Interior Features and Comfort

Stepping inside the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type, you're greeted with a blend of comfort and technology typical of the era. The interior was designed with an emphasis on providing a luxurious experience for both the driver and passengers. The seats were plush and supportive, often upholstered in high-quality cloth or optional leather. The dashboard was well-organized, with easy-to-read gauges and controls. The T-Type package added sporty touches to the interior, such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel and unique trim accents. The instrument panel provided essential information, including speed, engine RPM, fuel level, and coolant temperature. Some models also featured an optional digital instrument panel, which was a high-tech feature for the time.

The comfort features of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type included air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and cruise control. The air conditioning system was effective at keeping the cabin cool, even in hot weather. The power windows and locks added convenience, while the cruise control made long drives more comfortable. The sound system in the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was a standout feature for its time. It typically included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, and some models were equipped with an optional premium sound system. The speakers were strategically placed throughout the cabin to provide balanced and immersive sound. The seats in the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type were designed for comfort, with ample cushioning and support. The front seats were typically bucket seats with adjustable headrests and lumbar support. The rear seat offered comfortable seating for two adults, with plenty of legroom and headroom. The interior trim in the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was available in a variety of colors and materials. The T-Type package often included unique trim accents, such as brushed aluminum or woodgrain trim. Overall, the interior of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was a comfortable and well-appointed space, offering a blend of luxury and convenience that was typical of the era.

Technology and Innovations

The 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was ahead of its time in terms of technology and innovations. One of the most notable features was the optional electronic touch climate control system. This system allowed drivers to precisely adjust the cabin temperature with the touch of a button. The digital instrument panel, available on some models, was another innovative feature. It provided a modern and high-tech look compared to traditional analog gauges. The computer command control system managed various engine functions, optimizing performance and fuel efficiency. This system used sensors to monitor engine parameters and adjust fuel delivery and ignition timing accordingly.

The audio system in the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type was also advanced for its time. It featured an AM/FM radio with a cassette player, and some models were equipped with an optional premium sound system. The premium sound system included features such as Dolby noise reduction and multiple speakers, providing a high-quality listening experience. The ride control system allowed drivers to adjust the suspension settings to suit their preferences. This system offered three modes: soft, normal, and firm, allowing drivers to customize the ride quality based on road conditions and driving style. The onboard diagnostics system helped mechanics diagnose and repair problems more efficiently. This system could detect and store trouble codes, which could then be accessed using a diagnostic tool. The security system in the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type included features such as a theft alarm and remote keyless entry. The theft alarm would sound if the car was tampered with, while the remote keyless entry allowed drivers to lock and unlock the doors from a distance. These technological innovations made the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type a standout car of its era, offering a blend of luxury, performance, and advanced features.

Collectibility and Market Value

For collectors and vintage car enthusiasts, the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type holds a special appeal. Its unique combination of luxury, performance, and sporty styling makes it a desirable model. The T-Type package, with its specific trim and features, adds to its collectibility. The condition of the car plays a significant role in its market value. Models in excellent condition, with low mileage and original parts, command the highest prices. The rarity of the car also affects its value. Models with rare options or unique color combinations are more sought after by collectors.

The market value of a 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type can vary widely depending on its condition, mileage, and location. Generally, well-maintained examples can range from $5,000 to $15,000 or more. Restored models in excellent condition can fetch even higher prices. The availability of parts can also influence the value of the car. Models with readily available parts are easier to maintain and repair, making them more attractive to collectors. The historical significance of the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type also contributes to its collectibility. As a representative of the 1980s automotive design and technology, it holds a place in automotive history. The number of previous owners can also affect the value of the car. Models with fewer previous owners are generally considered more desirable. Overall, the 1985 Buick Riviera T-Type is a collectible car that offers a unique blend of luxury, performance, and style. Its value is influenced by various factors, including its condition, rarity, and historical significance.