The Buick Regal T-Type and Grand National models were recognized early on as future classics, especially compared to their contemporaries. By 1987, Buick’s turbocharged 231 cubic inch V6 engine was producing over 245 horsepower, significantly outperforming even a Chevrolet Camaro’s 305 cubic inch V8, which only managed 190 horsepower with an automatic transmission. The pinnacle of this era arrived in 1987 with the Grand National Experimental, or GNX – a limited edition, finely tuned machine representing the ultimate evolution of the turbo Buick lineage.
Buick produced only 547 GNX models. Each started as a Grand National with a specific interior before being shipped to American Specialty Cars (ASC) McLaren Performance Technologies for the GNX transformation. ASC McLaren implemented numerous enhancements, including a Garrett T3 turbocharger equipped with a ceramic impeller and a distinctive GNX heat shield. A larger intercooler was installed to improve cooling, alongside a recalibrated engine management system to optimize performance. The chassis also received upgrades with a performance suspension system featuring a torque bar and a unique GNX rear differential cover.
The 3.8L V6 engine in the 1987 Buick GNX was conservatively rated at 276 horsepower at 4,400 RPM and 360 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 RPM. This power was channeled through a modified Turbo-HydraMatic 2004R transmission, enabling the GNX to achieve 0-60 MPH in under five seconds and conquer the quarter-mile in the low 13-second range. The exterior of the GNX conveyed its menacing performance capabilities with vented fenders, the absence of hood and fender emblems for a cleaner look, and unique 16-inch aluminum mesh wheels. These blacked-out wheels featured GNX center caps and were paired with Goodyear Eagle Gatorback tires.
The Buick Gnx 1987 stands as a testament to performance engineering and is highly sought after by collectors. An exceptionally rare example, GNX number 155 of the “Fourtunate Few,” boasts an incredibly low 12 miles on its odometer and includes a special instrumentation package. This collector-grade car is further equipped with GNX-badged front carpet savers, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and the original ASC McLaren GNX window sticker, detailing all the exclusive features that define this iconic turbocharged Buick Grand National Experimental.
