Automotive
After 15 years and more than two million units produced, Buick retired the second generation of the Century and replaced it with the 1997 model, a completely redesigned and reengineered vehicle.
Released just one month after the election of President Clinton's second term, the 1997 Buick Century marked the third generation of this beloved model. While the previous generation still enjoyed high sales, its significance in the market had waned, particularly with customers excited about the new model. The 1997 Century was a complete departure from its predecessor. Built on the W-body platform, the new model featured a 4.2-inch (10.7 cm) longer wheelbase, contributing to increased interior space. The design language was thoroughly modern, reflecting the bio-design era, leaving behind the wedged shapes of the early 1980s. The cabin was updated with more convenience and safety features, including airbags. Under the hood, the V6 engine delivered similar power to its predecessor but with improved fuel efficiency and performance.
The 1997 Buick Century faced tough competition from the Ford Taurus, Toyota Camry, and Honda Accord, but Buick made significant design changes to stay competitive. The front of the car received new, more rounded headlights, with a grille between them featuring shaved corners and chromed vertical slats. The Buick badge was now centrally positioned after safety regulations mandated that upright logos be avoided for pedestrian protection. Below, the body-colored wrapped-around plastic bumper included an additional slim and wide air intake in the apron, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.
From the side, the smooth lines of the 1997 Buick Century emphasized aerodynamic efficiency. The car's raked windshield and slightly descending roofline were designed to reduce drag, while the rear of the vehicle featured a panoramic windshield. The deck lid at the back was rounded, with a sharp edge to reduce air turbulence. Full-width taillights spanned the rear, interrupted only by the centrally placed license plate holder. The Buick lettering was stamped into the center of the rear bumper, completing the sleek, modern design.
The interior of the 1997 Buick Century was where the car truly stood out. The dashboard featured smooth, wave-like lines that curved around the driver, creating a driver-focused design while maintaining a clean and simple layout for the passenger side. A four-spoke steering wheel with integrated controls framed the instrument panel, with the speedometer taking center stage. Large dials for coolant temperature and fuel level flanked it. Buick opted not to include a tachometer, focusing on the more practical features for its target market. The front seat was a 55/45 split bench, providing room for up to three people, and the backseat offered spacious legroom, reflecting Buick’s reputation for prioritizing comfort.
Under the hood, the 1997 Buick Century featured a 3.1-liter V6 engine, which had been available in the previous generation for its final two years. The engine was more fuel-efficient due to improved aerodynamics and a new four-speed automatic transmission. The W-body platform’s all-wheel independent suspension system ensured a smooth ride, while the antilock braking system (ABS) came standard for added safety.
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