The 1977 Buick Riviera, a classic of automotive design, offered a range of sophisticated paint colors. While pinpointing the exact shade of green without the original paint code is challenging, we can explore the likely options and delve into the nuances of Buick's color palettes from that era. This exploration will also address some common questions surrounding 1977 Riviera paint.
What shades of green were available on a 1977 Buick Riviera?
Buick didn't always list their paint colors with easily searchable names. Instead, they often used codes. Unfortunately, without the specific code from the vehicle's documentation (owner's manual, build sheet, etc.), identifying the precise shade of green is difficult. However, Buick's 1977 color offerings likely included various shades of green, ranging from lighter, spring-like greens to deeper, more forest-like tones. Some might have even leaned towards blue-green or yellowish-green hues, depending on the specific paint formulation.
To accurately determine the green paint on a specific 1977 Buick Riviera, you'd need to consult resources like:
- Original vehicle documentation: This is the most reliable source. The paint code will be listed.
- Buick historical society or enthusiast clubs: These groups often have extensive archives of information, including paint color charts.
- Online forums dedicated to classic cars: Fellow Buick Riviera owners might have experienced similar challenges and can offer valuable insight.
- Automotive paint specialists: These specialists can analyze the paint on the car to determine the closest color match.
How can I find the original paint code for my 1977 Buick Riviera?
Locating the original paint code is crucial for accurate color identification and restoration. Check these locations:
- The vehicle's data plate: This plate often contains the paint code. It's usually located under the hood or in the glove compartment.
- Owner's manual: The manual sometimes includes a section listing the vehicle's specifications, which might contain the paint code.
- Build sheet (if available): A build sheet, detailing the car's specifications during assembly, will definitively include the paint code. These are often sold separately by enthusiasts.
What were the most popular colors for the 1977 Buick Riviera?
While precise sales figures broken down by color are difficult to obtain for a model this old, common wisdom suggests that more neutral colors like white, black, and various shades of metallic grey and brown were probably the most popular choices. Greens, though offered, likely held a smaller segment of the market during this era.
Are there any resources for identifying Buick paint codes?
Yes, several resources can assist in decoding Buick paint codes. These include online forums, historical Buick documentation (if you can locate examples from 1977), and specialized automotive paint code databases. These databases are often subscription-based and are frequently used by professionals.
Where can I find replacement paint for my 1977 Buick Riviera?
Once you have identified your car's original paint code, you can approach several avenues to obtain a color match:
- Automotive paint retailers: Many automotive supply stores can mix paint based on the code.
- Restoration specialists: Specialists in classic car restoration are adept at finding and matching original paint colors.
- Online retailers: Some online retailers offer paint matching services based on codes.
Finding the precise shade of green on your 1977 Buick Riviera requires dedicated research. However, by systematically investigating the resources mentioned above, you should be able to identify the correct color and restore your classic car to its original glory. Remember, the key is that original paint code!
