Buick Century

The Buick Century nameplate has a long and varied history, first appearing in 1936. Buick created the original Century by installing its most powerful straight-8 engine into its smallest chassis, making it one of the first factory performance cars. Capable of a sustained 100 mph, it earned the nickname "the banker's hot rod" and set a template for future models.

Collectors focus on two main eras: the pre-war 1936-1942 models and the V8-powered 1954-1958 generation. The 50s cars, with their distinctive "Nailhead" V8 engines and classic hardtop and convertible styling, are especially sought after. These early models represent the pinnacle of Buick's performance and design for the period.

The market for the Century is highly segmented. The average sale price of $20,740 is driven by well-restored pre-war and 1950s examples, which can sell for over $60,000. Later front-wheel drive models from the 1970s through the 2000s trade for used car money, often under $1,000, and aren't typically considered collectible.

Prices for sold examples range from $477 to $66,000.