The Buick Regal T-Type and Grand National emerged as true visionaries in the automotive landscape, recognized early on as future classics even when they were showroom fresh. In an era where raw V8 power was king, Buick dared to innovate, breathing fire into the performance scene with turbocharged V6 engines. By 1987, the Grand National’s 231 cubic inch V6 was unleashing over 245 horsepower, a stark contrast to the era’s standard 305 CI V8s, like those found in automatic Camaros, which were producing a comparatively modest 190 horsepower. This bold move cemented the Grand National Buick’s place in automotive history, but the story didn’t end there.
The pinnacle of this turbocharged lineage arrived in 1987 with the Buick GNX, short for Grand National Experimental. This limited-edition marvel represented the ultimate evolution of the turbo Buick concept, amplifying everything that made the Grand National series so exceptional. Only 547 Grand National Buicks were specifically built with a unique interior and then entrusted to American Specialty Cars (ASC) McLaren Performance Technologies for the comprehensive GNX transformation.
The GNX treatment was extensive and performance-focused. It featured a Garrett T3 turbocharger, enhanced with a ceramic impeller and a distinctive GNX heat shield, along with a larger, more efficient intercooler to maximize boost. The engine management system was reprogrammed to optimize performance, and the chassis received a performance suspension upgrade, incorporating a torque bar and a GNX-exclusive rear differential cover for improved handling and power delivery. Despite these significant enhancements, the 3.8L V6 engine in the Grand National Buick GNX was conservatively rated at 276 horsepower at 4,400 RPM and a formidable 360 lb-ft of torque at 3,000 RPM. This power was channeled through a meticulously prepared Turbo-HydraMatic 2004R transmission, ensuring robust and reliable performance.
The result was breathtaking performance figures. The Grand National Buick 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 genuinely astounding for the time and remain impressive even by today’s standards. Visually, the GNX exuded a menacing presence. The exterior was distinguished by vented fenders, a deliberate absence of hood and fender emblems for a cleaner, more aggressive look, and unique 16-inch aluminum mesh wheels finished with a black-out face and GNX center caps. These wheels were shod with high-performance Goodyear Eagle Gatorback tires, further underscoring the car’s performance intentions.
Examples of the Grand National Buick GNX, particularly those in pristine condition, are highly sought after by collectors. One exceptional example, GNX number 155 out of the “Fourtunate Few,” stands as a testament to the car’s enduring appeal. This unrestored GNX boasts an incredibly low 12 miles on its odometer, showcased through a special instrumentation package. It also retains original features like GNX-badged front carpet savers, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, and the all-important ASC McLaren GNX window sticker, which meticulously details the components and features that define this ultimate Grand National Experimental. The Grand National Buick GNX is more than just a car; it’s a symbol of American ingenuity and a high-water mark for turbocharged performance, securing its legendary status for generations to come.
