The first generation Buick Riviera was introduced for the 1963 model year. The Riviera name had been previously used by Buick for trim levels, but starting in 1963, the Riviera was its own model. The first generation Riviera was available as a two door hardtop, and was powered by a 6.6L or 7.0L V8 engine. The most notable Riviera variant was the Riviera Gran Sport, which only became available for 1965, otherwise, there was only the Base Model. The first generation Riviera was built until 1965 and was replaced by the Second Generation Buick Riviera.