Profile Menu

1968 Buick Riviera, 464 ci Big-Block V8. Name A Better Duo

Performance Modifications / Engine Swap written by @BuickBoss
06.18.2024

Meet John Lyons, the genius behind one of the quickest 1968 Buick Rivieras you'll ever see. This isn't just any classic car—it's a beast powered by a meticulously crafted 464 cubic inch (ci) big-block V8, strategically placed 12 inches further back in the engine bay for optimal performance.


At the core is a bored 1973 455 ci block, packed with high-performance parts:

  • Forged Crank
  • H-beam Rods
  • JE Flat-top Pistons
  • Stage 2 Solid Roller Camshaft
  • CNC Ported Heads
  • Crank Girdle
  • FiTech 1200 hp Throttle Body
  • Dailey Engineering Dry Sump System

This powerhouse delivers an astounding 788 horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 728 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 rpm, all on 110 octane fuel with a 13:1 compression ratio.

Transferring all that power to the rear wheels is no small feat. Here's how it’s done:

  • T/A Aluminum Flywheel
  • McLeod Dual Disc Clutch
  • Tremec TKO 600 Five-speed Manual Transmission
  • Winters Performance Quick-change Rear End with 3.64 Gears and Limited Slip Differential (LSD)

The Riviera’s ride is as refined as its power:

  • Grand National Stock Car Spindle Pins
  • Custom Aluminum Control Arms
  • Flaming River Power Steering Rack
  • Pinion-mounted Panhard Bar

Up front, it features Jeg’s double-adjustable coilovers with 1,000 lb springs and Grand National stock car six-piston brakes. The rear sports Jeg’s adjustable coilovers with 450 lb springs and Wilwood four-piston brakes.

To complement its monstrous performance, the Riviera boasts a sleek and lightweight body with:

Carbon Fiber Hood, Trunk Lid, Front Bumper, Fenders, and Quarter Panels

Categories of Modifications

John’s 1968 Buick Riviera spans several categories of car modifications, including:

  • Engine Enhancements
  • Transmission and Drivetrain Upgrades
  • Suspension and Handling Improvements
  • Brake System Upgrades
  • Weight Reduction through Carbon Fiber Body Panels

Source:

Hot Rod

Three Pedals

Story’s Author

448 days on site
Stories:
4