Jeff Mosing’s 1965 Buick Riviera is the perfect showcase of Detroit Speed’s capability to blend artistry and engineering. This beautiful cruiser was brought to life with the vision of creating a refined pro-touring masterpiece while preserving the classic lines of Buick’s first-gen Riviera. The result? A car that effortlessly balances nostalgia and modern performance.

Jeff’s passion for the Riviera led him to Detroit Speed, where he entrusted our team to transform the car into something truly exceptional. From the outset, the project aimed to retain the Riviera’s essence but elevate every element. Multiple renderings laid the groundwork, with each refinement in the plan building toward a cohesive vision. At its heart sits a Mast Motorsports Black Label LSX, delivering 650 horsepower with the look of a vintage Buick Nailhead, thanks to custom-machined valve covers. Power is managed by a Bowler Performance 4L80E transmission and transferred to a Detroit Speed-built Ford 9-inch rearend. This drivetrain guarantees smooth cruising and enough punch for spirited drives.

The engineering marvel begins beneath the body. Detroit Speed’s Hydroformed Front Subframe—originally designed for a first-gen Camaro—was integrated into a custom chassis. Paired with tubular control arms, forged uprights, and a DSE steering rack, the front end delivers precision handling. Out back, a custom three-link rear suspension with DSE swivel-link technology ensures modern ride quality. Coilovers and a Brembo braking system, bolstered by Bosch ABS, complete the chassis upgrades, turning the Riviera into a serious performer without compromising comfort.

The finished bodywork shows attention to detail. The factory “clamshell” headlight doors were reimagined with billet aluminum construction, subtly echoing the grille’s design. Custom rockers now house functional exhaust side dumps, operated by Hooker Blackheart cutouts for an aggressive soundtrack at the driver’s discretion. Both bumpers were completely reshaped; the rear bumper, in particular, was streamlined to relocate the taillights into a billet aluminum rear panel, giving the car a sleeker, more modern profile.

The Buick Riviera’s presence is further elevated by its Ferrari Rosso Mugello paint, applied to accentuate the car’s classic and flowing lines. Forgeline Rodster wheels wrapped in Michelin rubber complete the exterior, adding a performance edge while maintaining elegance. Every chrome accent, replated by Advanced Plating, radiates perfection.

Inside, the story continues with a cabin that bridges the past with the modern. Cato’s Custom Upholstery created a rich brown interior that shares cues of the original design while introducing modern appointments. Recaro seats, a custom-machined steering wheel with integrated paddle shifters, and Classic Instruments gauges bring functionality and style together. Vintage Air ensures cruising comfort, while a Holley Terminator X Max ECU keeps the LSX humming.

Jeff’s Buick Riviera has earned its place as a showstopper, gracing the covers of Modern Rodding and Wheel Hub magazines. His project highlights the Detroit Speed build team’s ability to turn automotive dreams into reality. By marrying Buick’s timeless styling with state-of-the-art performance design and components, Detroit Speed crafted a car that’s truly a benchmark for pro-touring machinery.