Description
Frank Sinatra bought a Lamborghini Miura in 1969. That same year, his son was driving this Buick Riviera. There is a story that Frank Sr. was secretly a little envious of it. And when you see this Buick, that is not such a far-fetched thought.
The first registered owner of this particular Riviera was Frank Wayne Sinatra Jr. His name does not simply appear in a story that somehow became attached to the car—it is listed on the original American title documents as well as on the original GM Protect-O-Plate. Even the factory build sheet is still with the car. As a result, this Buick comes with exactly the kind of documentation that turns a good story into a genuine one.
Frank Sinatra Sr. was often associated with large Chryslers and other American luxury automobiles. His son, however, chose a Riviera: a substantial two-door coupé with a long hood, a low roofline, and enough presence to stand out even on the streets of Los Angeles.
The Riviera was Buick’s luxury coupé. It was not a sports car in the European sense, nor was it simply a four-door sedan with two doors removed. This was an automobile for someone who wanted comfort without ever going unnoticed.
Under the hood lies a 430 cubic-inch V8, displacing approximately seven liters. For the 1969 model year, Buick rated the engine at 360 SAE gross horsepower and 475 lb-ft of torque. Those figures belong to a different era and cannot be compared directly with modern performance ratings, but even then the message was unmistakable: this car lacked for nothing. You start the engine, shift the Hydra-Matic into Drive, and let the V8 do what it does best. There is no nervous engine demanding constant high revs—just an immense reserve of effortless power waiting quietly until you press the accelerator a little farther.
This particular example is also exceptionally well equipped. Power windows, power seats, central locking, tinted glass, a trunk release operated from inside the cabin, and air conditioning all make it clear that Sinatra Jr. did not select the entry-level version from the order form. Front disc brakes, a limited-slip differential, and a power antenna were also specified.
The car was imported into Sweden in 2016. That same year, the body was repainted and the engine was rebuilt, including new pistons and bearings, while the cylinder heads were modified to run on unleaded fuel. The car’s original character was carefully preserved, but its mechanicals were made more practical for modern driving. Even the period-style radio now features Bluetooth. One wonders what Frank would have thought of that.
Today, the Riviera presents itself in remarkably attractive and authentic condition. Not only because of its imposing bodywork or its mighty V8, but above all because of the wealth of historical details that remain with the car. Behind the original radio, an old business card was even discovered from the company that installed it back in 1968. With most classic cars, the history is found in a folder of invoices. With this Buick, it turns up behind the dashboard as well.
A 1969 Buick Riviera, first registered to Frank Sinatra Jr., complete with its original title, Protect-O-Plate, and factory build sheet.
Interested? Contact Gallery Aaldering today and discover this extraordinary Buick for yourself. We export our vehicles worldwide—please inquire about the available possibilities.
