Buick Century (2nd generation)
The 'banker's hot rod' combining the lightweight Special chassis with the powerful Roadmaster V8.
- Power
- 255 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 10.5 s
- Top speed
- 110 mph
- Est. value
- $14k–$65k
About the Buick Century
The 1956 Buick Century represented the final year of the second-generation styling, featuring the iconic 'VentiPorts' and a distinctive panoramic windshield. Known as the 'banker's hot rod', it paired the smaller, lighter chassis of the Buick Special with the high-output 322 cubic-inch 'Nailhead' V8 from the larger Roadmaster. This combination made the Century the performance leader of the Buick line-up during the mid-1950s. The 1956 model year was notable for the introduction of the four-door Riviera hardtop body style, which eliminated the B-pillar for a sleeker profile.
Buick Century specs
The Buick Century produces 255 bhp (190 kW) and 462 Nm (341 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 10.5 seconds and has a top speed of 110 mph (177 km/h).
| Make | Buick |
|---|---|
| Model | Century |
| Generation | Second Generation (2nd generation) |
| Trim | 5.3 |
| Years | 1954–1958 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Sedan |
| Country | United States |
| Original price | About $3,000 when new |
| Engine | 5.2-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 5,277 cc (5.3 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 255 bhp (190 kW) at 4,400 rpm |
| Torque | 462 Nm (341 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 10.5 s |
| Top speed | 110 mph (177 km/h) |
| Transmission | 2-speed Dynaflow automatic |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,880 kg (4,145 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 136 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Buick Century worth?
A typical Buick Century is estimated to be worth $14,000 – $65,000 (about £10,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $3,000.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Buick Century rarity in CarSpot
The Buick Century is an Uncommon card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 33 out of 100. Hot hatches and premium sporty cars. An Uncommon card is worth 20 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Buick Century fun facts
- The 'Century' name was originally chosen because the car was capable of reaching 100 mph, a significant feat for a production car in the 1930s.
- The 1956 model featured a unique 'Redliner' speedometer, where a horizontal red line grew across the display as the car accelerated.
- The 322 cubic-inch engine earned the nickname 'Nailhead' due to its unusually small, vertically mounted valves.