Description
The Buick Century 8 Sedanette was a striking and performance-oriented model introduced during the late 1930s, with the 1939 model being one of the most well-known examples. The Century nameplate itself was known for blending the smaller, lighter body of Buick’s Special series with the more powerful straight-eight engine from the larger Roadmaster. This made the Century one of Buick’s fastest offerings of the time—earning it the nickname “the banker’s hot rod.”
The “Sedanette” body style was a two-door fastback design, which combined sleek, flowing lines with the comfort of a full-size sedan. Its distinctive sloped rear gave it a streamlined and sporty profile, setting it apart from more conservative sedan designs. The Century Sedanette was both stylish and practical, offering a roomy interior while appealing to buyers who wanted something more dynamic in appearance and performance.
Power came from Buick’s 320 cubic inch inline-eight engine, which was also used in the heavier Roadmaster. In the Century, this engine produced impressive acceleration, thanks to the lighter body. The combination of power and agility made it one of the best-performing Buicks of its era. It was paired with a three-speed manual transmission and featured innovations such as hydraulic brakes and coil spring suspension, contributing to a smooth and controlled driving experience.
Inside, the Century 8 Sedanette was well-appointed with a refined dashboard, quality upholstery, and stylish trim. The front and rear bench seats offered generous comfort, and the sloping roofline did little to compromise interior headroom, making it a practical and luxurious option for drivers who also appreciated modern styling.
The 1939 Buick Century 8 Sedanette remains one of the most admired prewar Buicks, valued by collectors for its elegant Art Deco-era design and impressive performance. Its combination of sleek lines, robust engineering, and Buick’s signature ride quality make it a standout example of American automotive design in the late 1930s.