The Buick Centurion Concept was first shown to the public at the 1956 Motorama Show. The body was constructed from fiberglass and the interior was inspired by the cockpit of an airplane. The bubble top roof was a bold and dynamic design move. The aerodynamic features of the car began in the front and gently flowed through the rest of the vehicle and to the rear. The two-tone paint scheme was accented by its white-wall tires and red interior.

Power was from a 325 horsepower V8 engine that was hidden under the long hood that sloped toward the front and the grille. The headlights were recessed far behind the bumper and were part of the body shell. The inside passengers received fresh air front he twin air scoops positioned near the sides.

The rear of the car was just as revolutionary, featuring 'wing-type' fenders that would later be seen on the 1959 Chevrolets and Buick models. There was a television camera in the rear that would report traffic to the driver via a television screen mounted in the dashboard.

The inside was trimmed in red leather and brushed bright metal. When the doors were opened, the front seats automatically slide back, offering additional room for easy entry and exit.

by Dan Vaughan