1956 Buick Century Series 60 Convertible Coupe

Buick first used the Century nameplate in the 1930s, commemorating its ability to exceed 100 mph. The first year to see a Buick wearing the 'Century' name in the post World War II was in 1954. This model had Buick's most powerful engine in the smallest model and fitted with tastefully understated bodywork. The Century's 'Fireball' overhead-valve V8 engine was capable of producing 255 horsepower in 1956. Zero-to-sixty took less than ten seconds, with the quarter-mile times of around 17 seconds and a top speed exceeding 110 mph.

The Century was styling, with the four oval 'ventiports' and leather trim. For 1956, Buick built just 4,721 Century Convertible Coupes.

This example was given a body-off-frame restoration in the mid-2000s. It is painted in two-tone blue with a correct light blue, dark blue and white tri-tone interior, with correct Grosse Pointe carpets.

In 2010, this Buick Century was offered for sale at RM Auctions 'Automobiles of Amelia Island' sale in Amelia Island, Florida. The car was estimated to sell for $70,000-$90,000. As bidding came to a close, the car has been sold for the sum of $66,000, inclusive of buyer's premium.

By Daniel Vaughan | Apr 2010