Buick Century classic cars for sale

History of the Buick Century

First introduced in 1936, the Buick Century emerged as an upscale, full-size offering bearing the hallmark of impressive straight-eight engines and substantial bodywork. The model's name comes from its ability to reach 100 mph, a remarkable feat at the time. Early Centuries were notable for varied body style options, including sedans, coupes and tourers, making them attractive to a diverse clientele. The production paused during WWII, returning in 1954 with V8 power, tailfin influences, and more opulent features, marking Buick’s reinvigorated postwar ambitions. Later generations oscillated between performance and comfort, with the line reappearing as a mid-size vehicle in the 1970s, ultimately running until 2005. Each era of the Century reflects its own chapter in American automotive design, responding to technological progress and evolving consumer tastes.

Model history and generations

The Century replaced the Buick Series 121 and initially came as a sleek, fast six-cylinder. By 1931, an inline-eight became standard. Four generations appeared before WWII, including innovations in suspension, noise insulation, and body structure. The fifth generation (1954–58) introduced a 322 V8 and advanced automatic transmissions like Dynaflow—stepping firmly into the age of American V8 cruisers. After several production breaks, Century returned with a new rear-drive platform in 1973, downsized in 1978, and transformed into a technologically modern, front-wheel-drive sedan by 1982. The Century’s evolution mirrored changing American automotive standards, with nine total generations spanning varied engines, body shapes, and levels of luxury.

Highlights and unique features

The Century was valued for its robust powertrains, especially the early high-output straight-eight and later 322 V8 engines. Features like integrated luggage compartments, comfort-oriented bumpers, enhanced cabin insulation from 1937, and a variety of innovative electrical systems set the model apart. The 1938 update introduced coil spring rear suspension and advanced lighting options. In the 1950s, factory-fitted air conditioning, automatic transmissions and power steering marked Buick’s dedication to ride comfort and innovation. Unique interior upholsteries—such as 'Tan & Ivory Cordaveen' vinyl—and two-tone paint schemes catered to buyers’ desires for personalisation. Station Wagon models expanded Century’s practicality.

Statistics reveal that Buick Century (manufacturer code: Serie 60) represents 75% of all classic Buick listings on Classic Trader, and accounts for an impressive 84.4% of listing views among Buick enthusiasts, signalling continued strong interest.

Technical data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The Century line saw multiple special editions. The 1984 'Olympic' model celebrated the LA Olympics, distinguished by headrests embroidered with Olympic rings and unique trim. The 1975 'Buick Special Coupe' featured a landau roof and exclusive body-coloured header, enhancing its presence. Earlier eras offered limited export versions with km/h speedometers for Europe and varied special interior and exterior treatments. Estate Wagons and Cabriolets from the 1950s remain particularly prized among collectors for their low production volumes and characteristic mid-century design.

Weak Spots and Common Issues

Buyers should be mindful of age-related issues: corrosion in floor pans and sills, fragile early electrical systems (especially with aging 6-volt wiring), and worn suspension bushes—especially in models prior to 1938, before coil spring improvements. Period automatic transmissions (e.g., 1938’s experimental 4-speed, later Dynaflow) require specialist attention. Spare parts for prewar models and rare features like wire wheels or original radios can be difficult to source. Later models may suffer from hydraulic issues in power steering or brakes; comprehensive maintenance records and period-correct replacement parts are recommended for preservation.

Engine, Performance, Transmission and Handling

The earliest Centuries started with robust inline-six or eight-cylinder engines, progressing to formidable 322 cu in (about 5.3L) V8s by the mid-1950s, delivering as much as 200 HP and making these cars some of the fastest full-size sedans of their era. Three-speed manual gearboxes were standard, with 2nd and 3rd gears synchronised; automatic transmissions became available and widespread in postwar versions. The ride quality was consistently targeted at comfort: Buick introduced better soundproofing, coil-spring suspension (from 1938), and later power-assist features that gave long-distance cruising a more relaxing character. Acceleration and top speed varied by year, with the best-equipped V8 versions reaching up to 140 km/h—impressive for their time. - 1936–42 Century Sedans (inline-eight, distinctive integrated boot, up to 141 HP)

• 1954–58 Century Estate Wagon & Convertible (V8, up to 200 HP, automatic transmission)
• 1973–77 Century (rear chassis, V8 options)
• 1982–96 Century (front-wheel drive, fuel economy improvements) Each of these models has specific appeal: early Centuries for prewar engineering, 1950s models for V8 performance and mid-century comfort, 1970s/80s for modernisation and reliability.

Interior, comfort, exterior and design

Distinctive, period-specific styling defined each Century generation. Early cars boasted vast grilles, chrome trims, and streamlined bodies. Cabins were spacious, with bench seats trimmed in cloth or vinyl, and options for luxury materials on higher trims. Later generations introduced two-tone paintwork, wire wheels, richly padded dashboards and radio options, plus practical touches like illuminated boot compartments. Comfort features (e.g. abblendbarer Innenspiegel/auto-dimming mirrors, optional air conditioning, electric clocks) expanded over time, matching mid-century American road trip culture. European exports sometimes featured metric instruments, while 1950s Cabrios and Wagons were available with rare dealer-installed accessories—such as period luggage sets, radios or factory wire wheels.

Other noteworthy features

Long model lifespans meant extensive cross-model compatibility for spare parts (especially drivetrains of the ‘30s–’50s models). The robustness of the Century’s mechanical layout has led to many finding new life in restoration and custom projects. The model holds a unique place in American TV culture: notably, a 1970s Century was driven by Detective Kojak, highlighting its popularity during that period.

Summary

The Buick Century series offers an authentic window into American motoring history: from prewar grandeur and powerful straight-eights to streamlined postwar V8s and comfortable innovations of the 1970s and 1980s. Classic Trader’s listings show continued strong demand and a wide supply of Centuries, with robust community knowledge supporting both originality and restoration. The model’s technical features, distinctive design cues, and rich model history make it a compelling classic for serious enthusiasts of American cars.