The difference between the Le Sabre and the Centurion

[Robroy]

Here’s a typical question from a newbie like me; what’s the difference between the Le Sabre and the Centurion model?
I have understood that the Centurion is the more luxury one of the two.
Seems like the two models got a bit more alike 1973

[Bob Alberini]

Per,
In 71 and 72, the differences were pretty substantial even though the bodies were basically the same. The 455 was the standard engine on 71 and 72 Centurions with the 350 standard on all LeSabre models and the 455 optional. The interior choices were completely different for the LeSabre and Centurion and the Notch-back seat was standard on the Centurion and not even available on the LeSabre. The formal coupe, with the different rear window treatment, was available only on the Centurion (and also shared with the Olds Delta 88 Royale coupe). All Centurions lacked the "ventiports" on the hood which the other B and C bodies (LeSabres, Electras and Estate Wagons)all had. By 73, the 350 was the standard engine on both the LeSabre and Centurion with the 455 offered as an available option. The interior choices for the LeSabre Custom and Centurion were virtually identical and the formal coupe, with its mandatory vinyl roof, was gone and replaced by the hardtop coupe such as you own. It seemed pretty obvious that with the two models now nearly identical, the hand writing was on the wall and as the new 74 models were introduced, the Centurion was history.

[Bob Alberini]

Thanks for noting the grilles, taillamps and the taillamp cove moldings, Keith. Once again, these changes applied to 71 and 72 only. For 73, LeSabre and Centurions shared the same parts except for the Centurion specific ornamentation. And you are also correct about the "finished" trunk compartment. The cardboard foundations that surrounded the taillamps, trunk hinges and covered the interior rear quarter panels were not found on the 71 and 72 LeSabres and I think the trunk covering was also different. In short, the Centurion appointments were more luxurious and Electra-like.

[centurion 455 ragtop]

For 73, LeSabre and Centurions shared the same parts except for the Centurion specific ornamentation. .

Yep just the emblems, portholes (only on LeSabre) were different. Both were basically the same. I beleive though unlike previous years if you wanted a convertible it was only offered as a Centurion. They did not make any LeSabre convertibles for '73. Not sure on the interior, I would venture to say its the same except for certain minor trim pieces.

[Bob Alberini]

Right you are, Rick. The LeSabre convertible disappeared after 72 only to re-surface in 74. The interior patterns for both 73 LeSabre Customs and Centurions were virtually identical (cloth and vinyl) with only the Centurion ornamentation being the real difference.

[Robroy]

My craving for a two door full size early 70’s Buick all started when I saw this beautiful Le Sabre for sale on internet. I had by then been looking a long time for a model that would suit my taste and this one felt like the jackpot, love at first sight so to say. However, they were asking for 9k which was far too expensive to ship overseas. I think it could have been that car museum in St Louis that had it for sale, if I recall correctly?

[Smartin]

I had the opportunity to buy that car for $3500, but it was just after I bought the 71 LeSabre 4 door last year. The car was in my area for years, and the guy had to sell it to make garage space for his wife. I'm a little upset I didn't get the car, but since it wasn't a 71, I was ok with it:laugh:

[Robroy]

I had a hunch you would know about this car Adam since it’s in your neighbourhood.

Check out the link below, this Norwegian must have got it all wrong, or could the Centurion name been used on other models perhaps on other markets, that is outside the US?
Looks like a Oldsmobile to me....

http://www.classiccars.se/classic/b_detalj.asp?txtLopnr=12412&txtVar=1

[Centurion]

Yes, Per, that car is a 1966 Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 convertible -- definitely not a Centurion!

[Robroy]

I went in and checked on the dealer’s homepage and there it was correct, an Oldsmobile Dynamic 88 convertible just as you said. He probably just got things mixed up.
http://www.bilsenteretklepp.no/amcarsE.html