Buick Riviera IV gallery (1973–1976)

The fourth generation transitioned from the boattail design to a formal Colonnade coupe profile emphasizing traditional American comfort.

All photos 38 I 0 1962–1965 II 0 1965–1970 III 0 1970–1973 IV 0 1973–1976 V 0 1976–1978 VI 0 1978–1985 VII 0 1985–1993 VIII 0 1994–1999

For the 1974 model year, Buick replaced the radical boattail styling with a formal Colonnade hardtop coupe body style featuring fixed B-pillars and stylish rear quarter opera windows. Built upon the full-size rear-wheel-drive E-body platform, the fourth-generation Riviera shifted its focus squarely toward ride isolation, opulence, and plush passenger comfort. Propulsion continued to come from the 455 cu in (7.5-liter) V8 engine developing between 205 and 245 net horsepower, paired with GM's durable three-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 automatic transmission. In 1975, the front styling was updated with contemporary dual rectangular headlamps and an updated grille assembly. A smaller 350 cu in (5.7-liter) Buick V8 became available in 1976, while the Stage 1 handling package provided sportier suspension calibration. The fourth-generation model represented the final era of heavyweight full-size traditional cruisers before industry-wide downsizing took hold.