1940 | Buick 60 Century

KXS 559 is an impressive, structurally excellent and highly original example that’s had just one UK owner. Although the Century was Buicks flagship models making up for around 10% of their sales, the 1st generation Centurys are immensely difficult to come across in this condition. It is estimated around 1-2% of examples built are either drivable or restorable condition. Within its class of performance based, luxury saloon cars, the Buick Century is a car that boasts exceptional character, scarcity, and performance with its 100mph capability.

Before its transatlantic journey in late 2018, KXS 559 was subject to a full engine rebuild with receipts for a full gasket set, main bearings, conrod bearings, new pistons and cam bearings. The cylinders were subject to engineering works by a Colorado based engine machine shop. In December of 2018, the Buick was loaded into its container ship at Houston Texas before making its way to the London Gateway Port of Essex. On arrival on U.K. soil, the Century made its way to its new owner in Devon where it has spent the past 6 years being enjoyed sparingly. Throughout the recent ownership a comprehensive level of recommissioning has been commissioned to include new wheel bearings, brake shoes, kingpins, and new seals and gaskets for the axle and differential.

The Buick has so much 1940's charm and quality. The road presence of the Buick is certainly not understated with the wide and tall wheel arches offering beautiful flare amongst bright chromework and large steel wheels. Few of the 8597 examples of the 1940 Buick Century wore the side mounted spare wheel which adds extra character to this already charming prewar car. Its interior is comfortable, luxurious and of high quality. To drive, KXS 889 is a delight, the 5.2L in-line 8-cylinder engine was dubbed the ‘Fireball 8' and pulls smoothly throughout the rev range comfortably up to the national speed limit. Through the gears, the transmission and axle feel exceptionally strong and fit, with the braking performance being very reassuring for the age and weight of such a car. Around corners, the Century feels suitably comfortable and surefooted for a luxury muscle car of the prewar era.

The Buick Century was a prominent model in Buick's lineup, produced by General Motors' Buick division. The name "Century" originated from the car's ability to reach speeds of 100 mph (a "century" in British racing slang at the time), positioning it as an upscale performance-oriented vehicle that blended luxury, speed, and affordability. The first-generation examples, such as this, were known for blending luxury with high performance, earning the nickname "banker's hot rod."Over its lifespan, the Century evolved from a full-size "hot rod" in the pre-war era to a mid-size family sedan, appealing to conservative buyers seeking comfort and reliability.

With examples coming to the market being few and far between, this is a fantastic opportunity to own an exceptionally rare car, especially in the UK.