Overview & Reviews
The Buick Century is a nameplate that was produced for almost half a century. It first appeared in 1936 and ran for six years, then reappeared for four more in 1954. Both of these generations were known for having shorter bodies with V8 engines to create a performance-oriented Buick -- a descriptor that would apply to the reborn Century in 1973. As with so many cars of its time, though, fuel economy regulations and the gas shortage turned the next Buick Century into a tamer, downsized car. For the next 27 years, it would follow along this path, providing affordable, comfortable but not particularly interesting transportation for millions of Americans.
Most Recent Buick Century
The most recent Buick Century was produced from 1997-2005 in a midsize sedan body style only. Like its predecessor, it shared its platform and engine with several other General Motors vehicles, but this Century differed more in terms of styling. Its chief exterior designer said at the time of its introduction, "We purposely avoided anything that could be considered trendy" for a long shelf life. Mission accomplished, as this Century roamed the Earth for nine years in not-so-trendy anonymity.
There was only one engine offered, a 3.1-liter V6 that sent power to the front wheels. This engine initially produced 160 horsepower and 185 pound-feet of torque, but was upgraded to 175 hp and 195 lb-ft in 2000.
For most of its life, this Century was offered in Custom and Limited trim levels. Both came standard with six-passenger capacity, keyless entry, full power accessories and dual-zone climate control. Items like cruise control, leather upholstery, a sunroof and a power driver seat were early options on both trim levels, and later became standard on the Limited in the 2000s. To commemorate the turn of the actual century, Buick offered a Special Edition package that included a monochrome exterior and special badges.
In terms of safety, items like antilock brakes, traction control, a tire-pressure monitor, front side airbags, OnStar and an integrated child safety seat switched from being standard, optional and not available at various points through the Century's nine-year run. Make sure to examine a used example carefully to be certain that it has the safety equipment you are looking for.
A used Buick Century from this generation is a comfortable car with a very good reliability record, but it has a floaty suspension, unresponsive handling and so-so brakes. In general, most other midsize sedans are a better choice. Even related GM vehicles from Oldsmobile and Pontiac provide better driving dynamics.
Past Buick Century models
The previous Buick Century was made from 1982-'96, with a significant midlife refreshening in 1989. This was an extremely successful car, selling more than 2 million units during its lifespan. It was available in sedan, wagon and coupe body styles, the latter of which was dropped after 1993. Trim levels included Custom, Limited and Special, depending on body style and year. The sedan and coupe were capable of seating six, while the wagon had optional eight-seat capacity with a rear-facing and foldable third-row bench. The wagon could also be had with a forever-classy exterior wood grain vinyl appliqué.
By the time the 1990s rolled around, the Century's standard engine was a 2.5-liter inline-4 making 110 hp and 135 lb-ft of torque. Although horsepower didn't change, the base engine was replaced in 1992 with a 2.2-liter unit that actually lost 5 lb-ft of torque. It was later upgraded to 120 hp in 1994. Most Centurys had the optional V6 that made 160 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. (This engine was standard on the 1996 wagon.) A three-speed automatic transmission was standard, with a four-speed auto optional. A driver airbag and antilock brakes were added as standard equipment in 1994.
So what do we think of this generation of Buick Century? Well, pretty much the same as we did in its final year. "In many states, this design is just a decade away from antique car status. Buick's aging Century has been in production since 1982 and looks like it. Regular updates have barely kept it competitive, and the Century is definitely ready for the crusher. It's slotted smack in the middle of the average American's budget; however, we'd rather spend our money on something whose expiration date wasn't rapidly approaching." More than a decade later, that's still dead-on -- although no state has recognized the Century as an antique car. We can't be right every time.
User Reviews:
Showing 91 through 100 of 415.00-
What a Nice Surprise - 1991 Buick Century
By Ryan - December 11 - 3:53 pmWhen we bought this car I thought, here we go, a granny car that eats gas and will hardly get up and go, but was I wrong. We bought this car with 65K miles on it and have 34k since and it has been wonderful. 20mpg city and an amazing 29 hwy! If I had known was I was getting I may have paid more for it! All I can say is I hope the new Buicks are just as reliable and comfortable to drive!
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salesman - 2005 Buick Century
By romo)69 - November 13 - 2:24 pmBest car around for the money, you cant find a better value at this price. The car will outlast its competitors.
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Hints for improvement - 2005 Buick Century
By QRM - November 13 - 11:05 amI like the car in general. I most specifically do not like the lights- on/lights-off games, however. I am not senile. I want to turn the headlights on when I want them on, and off when I want them off. I want the interior lights on if and only if I open a door, or if I turn them on. At least, let these features be programmable.
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great car - 2001 Buick Century
By vferraro - August 30 - 2:00 amNo problems with vehicle whatsoever. I drive mostly on surface streets, which tends to be harder on any vehicle, and this car has been outstanding. Would not think twice about buying another.
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review - 1990 Buick Century
By dd013943 - August 24 - 2:00 amgreat car that i have had for a while. rust was a factor--but the seats were comfortable.
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2004 Buick Century - 2004 Buick Century
By Luvinlaughs - August 21 - 2:00 amIve owned my new Century for 2 months, and true to Buicks form, its a great car! It handles well, is comfortable, and not too bad on fuel mileage either. My old car was a 1992 Buick Regal that had 320,000 miles on it when I traded it off. . . it was a great car! I expect the Century to be equally great. When I trade . .I trade for a Buick!
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The Best - 1999 Buick Century
By val de vargas - August 19 - 2:00 amI purchased this vehicle originally to show Real estate in Albuquerque, NM. aaaaaaaaaand I did . the only reason I am selling is because the Buyers in Santa Fe would like me to take them in avehicle that can handle dirt roads. so now I need a SUV. I am currently 69 years old. I drive this wonderful vehicle as I would show a beautiful property. In other words I have retained all maintenance records.You won"t believe this vehicle has 95000 miles. See for yourself.Call me for a Showing. 505 4121593. They call the color GOLD.This vehicle handles like a LEXUS.And the best part of it all you can seat 6 grownups. Thank you for your time.
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sweet - 1995 Buick Century
By lurchmister - July 27 - 2:00 amthis is a great car for starting teens.
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What a Gem - 1993 Buick Century
By flsuec - July 6 - 2:00 amI purchased my 2 door coupe with its great 3.3 engine, when it was two years old and still have it in 2003. It has been a great car with only expected repairs for a car of its age. The two door coupe is smart looking and a joy to drive. They should bring back this sporty model.
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great mid-size sedan for young family - 1997 Buick Century
By Mike U - June 2 - 2:00 amBeen great, despite perception of "old mans car". Havent had any mechanical/electrical problems at all. Comfortable ride & front seating. Back seating (knee room) can be tight for adults/larger teenagers (it is a mid- size, not full-size, sedan). Good in snow. Handling is fine for everyday driving. Test drove Nissan Altima same day and there was a big difference going around curves in favor of the Nissan. Century had more rear headroom, softer seats.
