1973 Buick Centurion

The 1960s had been a time of escalating performance, but they also brought about the realization of strict safety regulations. As the 1970s got underway, manufacturers began moving away from performance-oriented vehicles and began focusing on large, luxurious offerings. In 1971, Buick announced the replacement for their performance-oriented 'Wildcat'. The new Centurion was a full-sized offering available in hardtop coupe, sedan, and convertible forms. The luxury-oriented Centurion initially only came with the large 455 cubic-inch big-block V8, though later the 350cu in V8 was slotted in as the standard motor with the 455 remaining optional.

The 1973 Buick Centurion was available as a hardtop sedan, 2-door hardtop Sport Coupe, and a Convertible. It had a 124-inch wheelbase platform which it shared with its LeSabre siblings. Power was supplied by a 350 cubic-inch V8 engine that had four-barrel carburetion and produced 175 horsepower. The engine was backed by a Turbo-Hydramatic transmission. In the front were newly updated bumpers to comply with growing safety regulations, dual headlamps, and a low grille with short vertical bars. There were no ventiports on the hoods. Centurion lettering could be found behind the front wheel cutout.

Standard features included Deluxe wheelcovers, power steering and brakes, Custom steering wheel, and vinyl notchback seats.

By Daniel Vaughan | Dec 2016