Conservative, dependable, no surprises. Those looking for a roomy, comfortable, easy-handling mid-sized sedan without putting the hurt on their wallets look no further than the 2002 Buick Century, which has existed in its present form since 1973. A revamp in 1997 added some length and interior space, but the Century has remained little change in its recent incarnation, sharing many characteristics with the sportier Regal and more luxurious LeSabre.

The 2002 Century comes in Custom and Limited trims, both with a 3.1-liter, 175-hp V6 engine and 4-speed automatic. Standard features include ABS brakes, traction control, dual-front airbags, a tire monitor, power features, and dual-zone climate control. The Limited adds leather seats, power front seats, and OnStar. This year, the 2002 Century redesigns its cruise control, which is now standard on the base Custom. The Limited gets new wood interior accents. Child seat anchors are standard in both trims. An optional Special Appearance package replaces the chrome exterior accents with monochrome color, and this year offers painted aluminum wheels instead of the chrome alloy ones.

Though its roomy trunk (16.7 cubic feet) and cabin bill the 2002 Century as a family car, its easy and effortless handling and long list of standard features make it attractive to Buick's traditionally older audience. The front-wheel drive sedan is easy on gas, and owners say it is smooth and quiet. Another highlight is the bargain price tag, considering what you get. Low points include limited rear seat legroom, no fold-down rear seats, and low ground clearance. Drivers generally feel the interior needs some modern updates. Though it remains Buick's most popular model, sales of the Century are beginning to slide.