I have owned a 63, 67 GS (awesome) 70 and 71. I have also owned three 1996 SC. I currently own a 1992 and a 1997 NA.
I am drawn to the 1979-1985 generation coupes, V8s only..

I like the advantage of the higher torque 350 of 1979 and 1980 plus not having the electronic/ECM controlled Quadrajet, which I understand can be a pain. The downside is no overdrive.

The 1981 is out because still no overdrive but the 350 is no longer an option.

The 1982-1985 have the overdrive.

I understand the TH325-L is based on the weak TH200 and the TH325-4L is based on the weak 200-R4. Is that the case? They are the "METRIC" transmissions.

For those who own or have owned this generation if Rivera, what advice have you? I understand they are quiet, comfortable, and ride and handle pretty well. Not interested in the Toronado. And the Eldorado has terrible engines in this period.

In a couple of weeks my travels may put me in close proximity to a 1980 for sale. They installed new bumper fillers, but did NOT paint them. And the rear ones were not the right kind as there is a gap under the license plate. I see online some of the rear bumper fillers are shorter and some longer in the under license plate area. Some are ABS and some are fiberglass. So if I DO buy this one I will have to replace the rear and remove the front to paint. Not sure why someone would go through all that trouble and not do it right.