Where to even begin with this one? This utterly dystopian raw-steel Riviera is something gamers playing Fallout are accustomed seeing. Or you might be more familiar with Mad Max movies, but the point should be clear in both instances. Average car enthusiast, on the other hand, rarely gets the chance to lay his eyes upon such a marvelous car. Closest we got to that recently, was this meticulous radial airplane engine powered 1939 Plymouth Pickup.
This 1952 Buick Riviera currently belongs to landscape photographer Peter Lik, but since it’s for sale at DuPont Registry, it probably won’t belong to him for long. Nicknamed Bombshell Betty, this raw-steel speedster was specially designed to break land speed records. According to the listing, it’s a six-time land speed world record holder, and even comes with all the necessary documentation and trophies. And all that for “only” $195,000.
It was designed by Jeff Brock who attacked and broke those six world records mentioned above, between 2009 and 2013. Last record was toppled at 165.735 mph. All that was possible due to modified 320ci straight-eight 1950 Buick Roadmaster engine under its curvaceous hood. 1952 Buick Riviera also packs Jegs Quick-Fuel 750 cm racing carb and manual Borg Warner T-10 4-speed tranny.
Truth be told, this 1952 Buick Riviera doesn’t exactly feature the whole Riviera body, but you might have guessed that by now. Bombshell Betty is mostly composed of 60-year old Riviera, but it also has 1968 Chevy Van front end, and 1973 Ford Thunderbird rear end. Speaking of rear, it also has 9-inch differential and a 2.73 positraction config. Then again, up front sits 11-inch dropped axle. Finally, Bombshell Betty wouldn’t have been completed without a few aesthetics. Mooneye wheels are courtesy of Rally America based on Morgan Canyon Road near Prather, California, and are dressed in Dunlop tires.
Even if it doesn’t get sold for $195,000, Bombshell Betty will likely go for insane amount of money. After its retirement in 2014, this bullet-like Riviera is now a collector’s item. One large, heavy, fast, and downright raw collectors item.