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Evolution
of the Riviera - 1976
by Sean Cahill #6613
Originally published in The Riview Vol. 20, No. 3Mar./Apr.
2004
I was originally going to combine '75 and '76 Evolution
article due to the small amount of difference there is in the cars. Then,
after thinking about it, I realized each one of us has an interest in individual
cars. After receiving the beautiful pictures of Boyd Barker's '76 Riviera,
which is showcased in this issue, I knew I had made the right decision.
The last of an era, the ultimate in size and beauty. No other full size
car was able to present itself like the '76 Riviera.
For the first time in five years, the engine horsepower rating
remained the same, at 205. And, for the first time since 1965, the GS package
was not available. Luxury was easier to sell than horsepower, and it was
proven in the option sheet for the Riviera. Only 80 cars were sold without
air conditioning. Power seats were on 93.7% of the '76 model year. 82% had
cruise control, and vinyl roof production increased to be included on 76.4%
of the cars. Also, the S/R trim package appeared for this year only. It
consisted of 40/40 seats, power windows, and the S/R emblems on the front
fenders. Only 1,619 S/R packages were sold. Only two interior colors were
available, red, which was the most popular, and buckskin.
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As some of us remember, the rise in fuel prices also
meant a rise in the manufacturers' dedication to improving fuel
economy. The Riviera was not ignored, as test showed an improvement
from 10 mpg to 14 mpg, poor by today's standards, but for 1976,
it was quite a feat for a car this size. Road tests quoted a top
speed of 121 mph. The weight had dropped almost 200 pounds from
the previous year, to 4,8 10. And production had increased to 20,082
cars. Also up another $378 was the price, to $6,798.
This was the last year for the full size Riviera,
as it was for other full size GM cars. Downsizing to improve economy
was at the top of the list for GM. This would also be the last year
for the 455 engine that was introduced in the 1970 model.
|
| Year |
Body |
Total Production |
|
|
Engine Size |
HP |
Carbs |
Produced |
1976 |
4EZ87 |
20,082 (Includes 1,619 S/R Option) |
Standard: |
|
455 cu. in. V8 |
205
|
1x4bbl |
|
| Year
|
Curb Weight |
Wheelbase
|
Track |
Length
|
Width
|
Height
|
Tire |
| Front |
Rear |
Size |
1976 |
5002
|
122.0 |
63.6 |
64.0 |
226.4 |
80.0 |
54.0 |
JR78x15 |
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