Buick added the Riviera to its lineup in 1963 as the GM division’s first personal luxury car. It would remain in the portfolio through 1999 (taking off the 1994 model year). The automobile was redesigned in 1966 and its slippery new looks contributed to the nameplate’s best sales year to date. This ’66 Riviera spent much of its life in New Mexico and has recently emerged from a 40-year slumber, minus its engine. Located now in Brandon, Florida, this roller is available here on eBay for $4,250 (Buy It Now). Thanks for the heads up on this one, local_sheriff!

Though the Riviera retained its rear-wheel-drive layout in 1966, it would share its platform with Oldsmobile’s new Toronado and – a year later – the Cadillac Eldorado, both using front-wheel-drive. The Riviera was a bigger car in 1966 and a full 200 lbs. heavier, common in the 1960s and 1970s when gasoline was cheap. Its vent windows, a GM feature from the 1930s, were gone, but the Riviera’s headlights remained concealed, now pivoted behind the grille when not in use. The 425 cubic inch V8 that the Riviera used in 1965 was carried over into 1966.

We don’t know how ago this Riviera’s engine went missing, but its absence might explain why this car was in storage for four decades. Because of its time out west, the body is largely rust-free, although there are some small holes in the trunk floor. Otherwise, it wears surface rust galore which should appeal to those who are into “patina.” The interior is going to need some attention, especially the driver’s seat back.

While the motor is MIA, the TH-400 automatic transmission is still present and ready to accept another motor. This was a factory air-conditioned automobile, though we don’t know where the hardware is hiding. We’re told this is otherwise a complete car and ready for restoration, perhaps with a shiny new LS V8 under the hood.