1997 Buick Century (W) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Buick Century (W) is between 1515 kg and 1520 kg (approximately 3340 to 3350 lbs). This moderate weight helps provide a stable and comfortable ride without sacrificing agility excessively. The car’s weight contributes to its smooth handling characteristics and steady road manners, although it isn’t focused on sportiness but rather comfort and ease of driving, which is typical for sedans in this class during its production period.

The luggage compartment of the Buick Century (W) offers a capacity of 475 liters (about 16.8 cubic feet). This sizeable trunk space is well-suited for everyday needs such as grocery shopping, luggage for a weekend trip, or transporting larger items. It strikes a good balance for buyers looking for a sedan that combines midsize comfort with ample cargo room, making it practical for both family and commuter use.

This generation of the Buick Century typically runs on 15-inch rims, specifically sized at 15,6J x 15. The corresponding tires are sized 205/70 R15. These tire dimensions contribute to a comfortable ride quality, favoring smooth handling and adequate grip, suitable for the car’s role as a comfortable family and commuter sedan rather than a high-performance vehicle.

With a length ranging between 4790 mm and 4940 mm (188.6 to 194.5 inches) and a width close to 1850 mm (72.8 inches), the Buick Century (W) fits comfortably inside a standard residential garage. Most single garages measure around 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and around 5.5 meters (18 feet) in length, so the Century's dimensions provide enough clearance for convenient parking, including room to open doors and maneuver around the vehicle.

Compared to its predecessor, the Buick Century (1991-1996 models), the 1997-2005 Century (W) exhibits subtle dimensional changes, typically growing slightly longer and marginally wider. The newer generation emphasizes a more modern design and improved interior space efficiency, leading to better passenger comfort and cargo capacity. This slight increase in size also enhances ride stability and interior roominess, reflecting the trend in late 1990s sedans toward larger midsize platforms.

When compared to mid-size sedans like the Chevrolet Malibu or Ford Taurus from the late 1990s and early 2000s, the Buick Century (W) is quite competitive in size. Its length (up to 4940 mm / 194.5 in) and width (around 1850 mm / 72.8 in) align closely with these competitors, offering similar cabin space and road presence. The Century’s luggage capacity of 475 liters (16.8 cubic feet) is also in the same range as its competitors, making it a practical option for buyers looking for a classic American midsize sedan experience.

The 1997-2005 Buick Century comfortably seats five occupants with two front bucket seats and a three-person rear bench. Its midsize sedan dimensions allow adequate headroom and legroom for both front and rear passengers. The interior design emphasizes comfort, with supportive seats and a smooth ride, making it ideal for daily commuting and family use. While it prioritizes comfort over sporty dynamics, the Century offers a pleasant environment for longer journeys.

The Buick Century (W) was generally equipped with V6 engines designed for a smooth and reliable driving experience rather than outright performance. Engine sizes typically ranged around 3.1 to 3.8 liters, delivering adequate horsepower for typical daily driving scenarios. The curb weight between 1515 kg and 1520 kg ensures that the vehicle can achieve decent acceleration and highway cruising without excessive fuel consumption. The setup reflects the priorities of Buick’s target audience, focusing on comfort and dependable performance.

The Buick Century (W) has a reputation for being relatively easy to maintain, thanks to its straightforward mechanical components and wide availability of parts. Its long production run from 1997 to 2005 meant that many aftermarket and replacement parts are accessible and affordable. In terms of reliability, the Century holds up well in the mid-size sedan category, with many owners reporting durability and low-cost upkeep when properly serviced. This contributes to its appeal as a practical and sensible choice among used sedans from the era.