Comments on: 1983 Buick Riviera Indy Pace Car

By: Ed Mertz

Ed Mertz — Thu, 02 Feb 2012 21:48:43 +0000

As I recall, there were five or six ’83 Riviera pace cars. A “real one” that was used, a back-up “real one,” and 2-3 replicas. The pre-pace laps started with 3-5 cars and with each lap one of the replicas dropped off while the others continued until the start of the race. I rode one lap in a replica and it was a thrill. Ed

By: Bobby Berry

Bobby Berry — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 16:31:33 +0000

My friend Tom Sneva from Paradise Valley Az, and winner of the 1983 Indy 500, still has the official 1983 Buick Regal Pace car he received as the winner of that event, sitting in his garage. What’s it worth; I’ll tell him.

By: Brian Jackson

Brian Jackson — Sat, 17 Apr 2010 16:15:37 +0000

I got to see this car in 2006 at the Buick Horse Power Nationals at IRP. GM Heritage brought many Buicks to this event. They also let me take a picture of my 1983 Buick Indianapolis 500 ball cap on top of the Riviera Pace Car that my Father-Inlaw gave me. When I got the hat I thought it had a different color and then I understood when I got to see the car. The car was pristine and the engine with the twins looked perfect. 20th anniversary for the Riv the fender emblem has XX after “Riviera” Brian Jackson

By: Jim G

Jim G — Sun, 31 Jan 2010 22:36:14 +0000

I worked at a Buick dealership in 1983 in Indiana and we were VERY fortunate to have “THE” Pace car on our showroom. It was taken off the showroom and I was given a ride in it as a few others were too. It was beyond fast and listening to those 2 turbos wind back down was a sound I will never forget. I understand there is only one in existence. I met a guy last year who said he worked on it some time back when it was being moved from one location to another. He said it “choked and puked” for a while but once it was dialed in, it was very fast. We compared stories and I had a great time talking about it. I am very greatful for the experience and being part of some automotive history. Thanks, Jim G.