The Buick Regal T-Type and Grand National emerged as symbols of a performance renaissance in the 1980s, instantly recognizable as future classics even when they were new. In an era where horsepower was often considered a relic of the past, Buick unleashed turbocharged power with its 231 cubic inch V6 engine. By 1987, this engine was producing over 245 horsepower, significantly outperforming the era’s standard V8s, like the 305 cubic inch V8 in an automatic Camaro which only managed a paltry 190 horsepower. The pinnacle of this turbocharged lineage arrived in 1987 with the limited-edition Grand National Experimental, or GNX – representing the ultimate evolution and a fitting conclusion to the legendary turbo Buick story.
The transformation into the GNX was a specialized process. Buick built a mere 547 cars with Grand National interiors and then shipped them to American Specialty Cars (ASC) McLaren Performance Technologies for the comprehensive GNX enhancements. These upgrades were substantial and performance-focused, starting with a Garrett T3 turbocharger featuring a ceramic impeller and a distinctive GNX heat shield. A larger capacity intercooler was added to improve cooling efficiency and boost power. The engine management system was reprogrammed to optimize performance, and the chassis received a performance suspension overhaul, including a torque bar and a unique GNX-specific rear differential cover.
The heart of the GNX was its enhanced 3.8L V6 engine, conservatively rated at 276 horsepower at 4,400 RPM and a robust 360 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 RPM. This power was channeled through a specially prepared Turbo-HydraMatic 2004R transmission, ensuring durability and performance. The result was breathtaking acceleration. The GNX could rocket from 0 to 60 MPH in under five seconds and devour the quarter-mile in the low 13-second range, figures that were exceptional for the time and still impressive today.
The GNX’s menacing aesthetics matched its performance. The exterior was instantly recognizable with vented front fenders, the deliberate absence of hood and fender emblems, and distinctive 16-inch aluminum mesh wheels finished in black with GNX center caps. These wheels were wrapped in high-performance Goodyear Eagle Gatorback tires, completing the aggressive look. An example of the GNX’s rarity and pristine condition is car number 155 of the “Fourtunate Few,” boasting an unbelievably low 12 miles on its odometer and featuring the special instrumentation package. This collector’s dream includes 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 cemented the turbo Buick as a Grand National Experimental legend.
