Buick Century

vs

Buick Rendezvous

USA vs USA β€” 1936 vs 2002

Buick Century (1936)
Buick Rendezvous (2002)
Specifications
Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6
Horsepower141 hp242 hp
Torque270 lb-ft240 lb-ft
Engine Size5,247 cc3,564 cc
0-60 mph14.0 sec8.0 sec
Top Speed100 mph115 mph
ΒΌ Mile19.5 sec16.0 sec
Weight3,800 lbs4,136 lbs
Wheelbase3,124 mm2,869 mm
Length5,055 mm4,787 mm
Original MSRP$1,135$31,955
Value (Excellent)$110,000$8,000
Collectibility8/102/10
Rarity6/102/10
The Verdict

The 2002 Buick Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6 emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 counters with lighter weight, stronger collectibility, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.

Overview

The 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 and 2002 Buick Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6 share a manufacturer in Buick, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Buick brand. The 2002 Buick Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 242 hp compared to 141 hp, a 101-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Century uses a Inline-8 OHV (Buick 320) displacing 5,247 cc, while the Buick Rendezvous relies on a V6 DOHC (LY7 High Feature) with 3,564 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2002 Buick Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6 edges ahead at 8.0 seconds versus 14.0 seconds. The Buick Century carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 336 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 commands a significant premium over the 2002 Buick Rendezvous CXL AWD 3.6L V6, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.