Nineteen seventy-eight was a hugely important year for General Motors products. Just one year after the General's massive full-size models were successfully downsized (GM preferred to say "resized") for improved fuel economy, it was the "A-Body" mid-sizers' turn for shrinkage. And while some of the resulting all-new 1978 GM intermediate coupes and sedans were hampered by a sloping "aeroback" roofline that would ultimately prove unpopular, the cars were better than their larger, heavier 1977 predecessors in every other way. The Long-running "Century" name dates back to 1936, when Buick's all-new lineup received names to go along with the ongoing series numbers. Those new mid-range Series 60 Century models married the shorter-wheelbase Series 40 Special body to the same new 320-cid straight-eight engine that powered the larger, heavier Series 80 Roadmaster and Series 90 Limited lines. The combination of big engine and light weight made the Century Buick's best performer. One story claims the Century moniker trumpeted the fact that they were the first Buicks capable of exceeding 100 mph.
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