USA vs USA — 1970 vs 1936
| GSX Stage 1 455 | Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 360 hp | 141 hp |
| Torque | 510 lb-ft | 270 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 7,456 cc | 5,247 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 14.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 130 mph | 100 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.4 sec | 19.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,600 lbs | 3,800 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,845 mm | 3,124 mm |
| Length | 5,156 mm | 5,055 mm |
| Units Produced | 678 | — |
| Original MSRP | $3,283 | $1,135 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $110,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
On balance, the 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 for outright capability, or the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Buick has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 with the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8 highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 360 hp compared to 141 hp, a 219-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick GSX uses a V8 OHV (Buick 455 Stage 1) displacing 7,456 cc, while the Buick Century relies on a Inline-8 OHV (Buick 320) with 5,247 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 edges ahead at 5.5 seconds versus 14.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 1970 Buick GSX Stage 1 455 commands a significant premium over the 1936 Buick Century Banker's Hot Rod Straight-8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.