Buick Century Overview
No, they didn't name Buick Century after the average age of its drivers. The reference to 100 is a nod to the top speed the first Buicks supposedly achieved. But there's no denying that Buick vehicles have long been considered granny cars, with their conservative, unimaginative exterior styling housing a somewhat upscale, yet practical interior and less than thrilling performance. By the way, the average age of Buick owners is somewhere in the 60s.
Since the demise of the Skylark, the Century has become Buick's economy car. But this mid-size sedan first appeared back in the 1930s as a full-size car. Reintroduced in the late 70s, the rear-wheel drive Buick Century was offered as a sedan, coupe, or wagon with powerful V6 and V8 engines. In the 1980s it went to front-wheel drive and smaller I4 and V6 engines with little power or energy. It was a practical car, built to get you from point A to B. Its boxy lines screamed American car.
In 1997, the Buick Century was freshened up, with softer, rounder lines. It dropped the wagon and coupe, marketing itself as an affordable family car alternative to more upscale foreign sedans, though it didn't sacrifice Buick's reputation for comfort and luxury at an affordable price. For these reasons, it became the top-selling car in the Buick line once the entry-level Skylark disappeared.
The Century was a reliable, if unexciting sedan. Though it suffered from a small back seat and a cheap-looking plastic interior, it performed well, was fairly comfortable, and durable -- all things a first-time buyer or family on a budget are looking for in a starter car. As part of Buick's attempt to reinvent itself for a younger market, the Century was axed in 2005, to be replaced by the LaCrosse.
3.9 Overall rating
(239 reviews)Customers say
The Buick Century has garnered a reputation for reliability, comfort, and decent fuel economy across its various model years. Many owners appreciate its smooth ride and spacious interior, making it popular among families and those seeking practicality. However, some drivers have expressed dissatisfaction with issues such as outdated aesthetics, handling on curvy roads, and occasional mechanical problems. Overall, the Buick Century is seen as a dependable choice, with a mix of positive attributes and areas for improvement.
AI generated from the text of customer reviews.
What people say
My 1980 Buick Century Limited was loaded with options and provided ample comfort and power for everyday driving, thanks to the 140 net horsepower, 301 CID V8 of Pontiac origin the car was equipped with. Long-distance trips were a pleasure and even city driving and parking was a cinch thanks to the car's compact dimensions (it was less than five meters long). If it had not been for the leaks in the aftermarket ASR sunroof and the THM 200 automatic transmission, I would have kept the Century far longer than I did. Still, most of my memories of this car are good.
This powerful V6 engine is built well. Interior is very spacious with comfortable bucket seats. The concert sound feature was a plus on this model, providing rich acoustics. The low-tire light was another good feature which proved reliable. Very strong frame on the vehicle.
This was a great first car. I bought it for $1200 in my senior year for high school with the cash I had saved from working 3~4 summers for my uncle. Nothing very special about it but that emotional attachment from it being my first car. I was a good car overall, it started up great, cruised well, went though snow like a tank, was good on gas, and had a great interior. Not much of a sports car with a 2.5L inline 4 cylinder but it had its moments... haha.
good solid family kinda car,nice options and a smooth ride, but do not like abs sensors, or those really small fuses would have been nicer if it had bigger fuses, a better tranny,a full size tire for a spare,and it needed a much better jack as those camper scissor jacks are just garbage. but it was a nice ride will give it that.
The car is very dependable, I have had it for a while now and it starts everyday. The only thing I have replaced is one tire and an air filter! However the 3100 V6 motor it has is known for intake manifold gasket and head gasket failure which kind of worries me. The car is super easy to drive though and floats down the road, and she has PLENTY of get up when you need it. The cloth seats are really comfortable too. and the car is very spacious, plenty of room for 5, but it will seat 6! The trunk is really big as well. The automatic headlights are awesome, and makes you kind of take the luxury for granted lol. Any ?'s feel free to ask.
Buick Century FAQs
How many Buick Century vehicles in Champaign, IL have no reported accidents or damage?
1 out of 1 for sale near Champaign, IL have no reported accidents or damage.
What fuel types are available?
Gasoline engines are available.
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