The Buick Regal T-Type and Grand National models were recognized early on as future classics, even when they were new cars rolling off the production line. By 1987, Buick had refined its turbocharged 231 cubic inch V6 engine to produce over 245 horsepower, a significant leap ahead of the era when a stock 305 cubic inch V8 in an automatic Camaro produced a mere 190 horsepower. The ultimate expression of this turbocharged lineage arrived in 1987 with the limited-edition Grand National Experimental, or GNX, representing the zenith of turbo Buick engineering and a fitting conclusion to the celebrated series.
![Side view of a black 1987 Buick Grand National GNX with mesh wheels and vented fender.] (original_image_url_placeholder.jpg)
Buick produced only 547 Grand Nationals with specific interior appointments before sending them to American Specialty Cars (ASC) McLaren Performance Technologies for the comprehensive GNX transformation. This upgrade package included a Garrett T3 turbocharger featuring a ceramic impeller and a distinctive GNX heat shield, a larger intercooler for improved cooling, revised engine management software to optimize performance, and an enhanced performance suspension incorporating a torque bar along with a unique GNX rear differential cover. The 3.8L V6 engine within the GNX was conservatively rated at 276 horsepower at 4,400 RPM and 360 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 RPM, paired with a meticulously prepared Turbo-HydraMatic 2004R transmission.
The result was a car capable of astonishing acceleration, launching from 0 to 60 MPH in under five seconds and completing a quarter-mile in the low 13-second range. The GNX’s menacing aesthetic was further enhanced by vented front fenders, the removal of hood and fender badging, and exclusive 16-inch aluminum mesh wheels finished in black with GNX center caps, shod with Goodyear Eagle Gatorback tires. The featured GNX, identified as number 155 out of the limited run of 547, boasts an incredibly low 12 miles on its odometer, showcased within a special instrumentation package. This exceptional vehicle is also equipped with GNX-branded front carpet savers, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, and retains its original ASC McLaren GNX window sticker, detailing the unique features that define this ultimate turbocharged Buick Grand National Experimental.
