![]() The new A-bodies didn’t feature an open air version, the LeSabre convertible was a one-year omission and there had not been an Electra convertible since 1970. The Centurion range provided the only Buick droptop for 1973. The quasi Electra-like prestige over the shorter wheelbase seemed to make more sense as the full size ranges gave up any lingering pretensions towards sportiness, but with thrift increasingly part of the purchaser’s intent, the 350 cu in engine became standard for the Centurion. As per 1971, the Centurion was available in four-door hardtop, two-door coupe and two-door convertible bodies – all sitting on the 124″ wheelbase.ġ973 would be the Centurion’s most successful year, selling nearly 45,000 examples across the three body styles. Visually, the grille was ‘dropped’ in a similar fashion to the Chevrolets of the same year. In 1972 not much changed, although the quoted output for the 455 was reduced from 315 hp to 225 hp, and from 360 hp to 270 hp for the high performance variant – a change from gross to net figures (if I have absorbed correctly from my CC readings). The Wildcat’s sporting pretensions were downplayed in favour of a more distinguished look featuring less chrome trim, a unique and discrete grille, deluxe steering wheel, but still no ventiports. It featured the 455 as standard, with the high performance version also available. The Centurion replaced the Wildcat as the top trim level B-body Buick, taking its name from a 1956 plexi-cabined show car. However the cars were longer, wider and heavier which did not augur well for the future. For example, the line that crossed over from the hood, which usually would have intersected the base of the windshield, swept over at the bottom of the A-pillar and became a side line.” Buick had been lagging in the B- and C-body looks department for the last few years but jumped to first place with this new platform.Īs Jerry Hirshberg, who was involved with the styling of this range, told Collectible Automobile “In an era of edge and boxiness, I think what we introduced with this car was the beginning of three-dimensionality, and that was unique for a big car. To my memory, this is the first 1971-76 B- or C-bodied Buick I have ever encountered in the metal, and it wasn’t until I sat down to do a capsule that I realised how relatively rare the Centurion was.ġ971 saw an overhaul of the fullsize GM cars across the board. To see over 80 photos of this car, including under carriage please visit our website posted ) With Toyota Week firing on all four cylinders, now is probably the right time for some respite in the form of a gargantuan US ragtop. This Buick comes fully documented with 2 original build sheets, original owner information, many receipts from the refurbishment, recent transmission rebuild, is turn-key and ready to go! Mechanically, at 17947 believed to be original miles, the car is extremely fit in all areas, lots of power delivered by a smooooooth ride.īig American convertibles of the 70's are great cars to own and enjoy, and with the relatively low cost of admission, is an investment that can be thoroughly enjoyed. The frame underside remains completely original and is extremely solid possessing an excellent core structure. The exterior paint, now ten years old, still shows very nice. Today, the original interior stands, dash is excellent, original seats show some patina fitting with age and use, carpets are excellent. Other notable recent services carb rebuild and complete rear axle rebuild in 2012 and a complete transmission rebuild April 2016 newer tires and newer top. The car was then enjoyed for the last 10 years until our recent acquisition. Upon purchase, the car was freshened with new paint, convertible top was serviced, exhaust serviced, all brakes gone through, engine serviced with full tune up, hoses, gaskets, etc. The car was kept at a seasonal residence, used sparingly, stored and remained with the original owner 2006 where was purchased showing only 8000 miles. ![]() The two owner car offered here was ordered and delivered new by Suburban Buick Company of Wheaton Illinois, in Colonial Yellow over Sandlewood interior and optioned as follows: 455 V8, 4 Barrel Carb, Automatic Transmission, 2.73 Rear End, Power Steering, Power Brakes, Power Front Seat, Power Top, Factory Air Conditioning, Deluxe Steering Wheel, Tilt Steering Wheel, Clock, Stereo Radio with Dual Rear Speakers, Deluxe Wheel Covers, Illumination Package etc. Weather headed to the shore, into town for ice cream or enjoying a warm summer day on your favorite country road, the 1973 Buick Centurion Convertible has plenty of room to cart family and friends around in style. Just in time for summer, it's time to drop the top and get out of Dodge.
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