1987 Buick Grand National: Specs, Features & More

Hey car enthusiasts, are you ready to dive deep into the awesomeness that is the 1987 Buick Grand National? This car wasn't just a vehicle; it was a statement, a muscle car cloaked in a tuxedo. We're going to break down everything you need to know, from the specs that made it a legend to the features that still turn heads today. So, buckle up, because we're about to take a thrilling ride through the history of this iconic car.

The Legend of the Buick Grand National

The Birth of a Beast

Let's rewind to the mid-1980s, a time when muscle cars were making a comeback, but with a twist. Gone were the days of massive, gas-guzzling engines. Instead, automakers were turning to the power of turbocharging to deliver performance. The Buick Grand National was at the forefront of this movement. It wasn't just another car; it was a symbol of raw power, sleek design, and a testament to American engineering ingenuity. The Grand National's story begins with the Regal, Buick's mid-size coupe. Buick's engineers saw the potential for a high-performance machine and decided to go all-in. The result was a car that would dominate the streets and become a collector's dream.

The genesis of the Grand National is deeply rooted in Buick's racing aspirations and its alliance with ASC/McLaren. The goal was to build a street-legal car capable of delivering exhilarating performance. This collaboration led to the creation of a machine that would challenge the status quo and redefine the muscle car era. The Grand National’s success was not just about raw power; it was a carefully crafted package that included distinctive aesthetics, advanced technology for its time, and a legacy that continues to captivate enthusiasts.

Why It's Iconic

What makes the 1987 Buick Grand National so iconic? Well, for starters, it had a distinctive look. The black paint, the aggressive stance, and the subtle badging all screamed performance. But it wasn't just about the looks; it was what was under the hood. The turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine was a game-changer. It produced incredible power and torque, making the Grand National a force to be reckoned with. This car was also a testament to Buick's engineering prowess, proving that they could build a car that was both powerful and refined. The Grand National also benefited from its limited production run, which made it exclusive and highly sought after by collectors.

The Grand National's iconic status is further cemented by its impact on popular culture. It became a favorite among car enthusiasts, appearing in movies, music videos, and video games. The car's success also spurred other manufacturers to embrace turbocharging technology, forever changing the performance car landscape. The Grand National represented a shift in automotive design, moving away from chrome and excess and embracing a sleek, stealthy aesthetic. Its rarity, coupled with its performance capabilities, has made it a symbol of automotive excellence.

The GNX: The Ultimate Grand National

For those who wanted even more, there was the GNX. This was the ultimate expression of the Grand National formula. Only 547 GNXs were produced, making them incredibly rare and valuable. The GNX featured a more powerful engine, upgraded suspension, and unique styling elements. It was a true supercar of its time, capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under 5 seconds. The GNX was a collaboration between Buick and McLaren Performance Technologies, resulting in a car that pushed the boundaries of performance.

The GNX was a limited-production model designed to be the ultimate performance machine. It featured a more powerful, finely-tuned engine, upgraded suspension, and unique exterior styling, including fender flares and special wheels. This exclusivity, combined with its exceptional performance, has made the GNX one of the most collectible cars in history. The GNX's influence is still felt today, inspiring modern performance cars and reminding enthusiasts of a time when Buick was at the pinnacle of automotive innovation.

1987 Buick Grand National Specs

Engine and Performance

Alright, let's get into the nitty-gritty. The 1987 Buick Grand National was powered by a turbocharged and intercooled 3.8-liter V6 engine. This wasn't your grandpa's engine; it was a powerhouse that delivered serious performance. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which was the perfect match for the car's power delivery. The car could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in around 4.9 seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. The engine produced 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. The torque figure was especially impressive, giving the Grand National incredible acceleration and responsiveness.

The engine's design emphasized efficiency and performance. The turbocharger played a vital role, forcing air into the engine to increase power output. The intercooler further enhanced performance by cooling the air before it entered the engine, allowing for even more efficient combustion. This turbo setup, along with sophisticated engine management systems, allowed the Grand National to deliver exhilarating performance while maintaining a level of refinement not typically found in muscle cars of the era. This engine became a benchmark for performance in the automotive industry.

Exterior and Interior

The exterior of the 1987 Buick Grand National was all about stealth and aggression. The black paint, which was the only color available, gave it a menacing look. The car featured a unique body kit, including a front air dam and a rear spoiler. The wheels were also specific to the Grand National, adding to its distinctive appearance. Inside, the Grand National featured a comfortable and sporty interior. The seats were supportive, and the dashboard was driver-focused. The car also came with a range of features, including air conditioning, power windows, and a premium sound system. The interior design was both functional and stylish, complementing the car's performance capabilities.

The interior of the Grand National was designed to provide a comfortable yet sporty driving experience. The seats were well-bolstered to keep the driver and passengers in place during spirited driving. The dashboard layout was intuitive, with all controls easily accessible. The overall design emphasized a blend of luxury and performance. This interior made the Grand National stand out from other performance cars of the era, which often prioritized raw power over comfort and refinement. The combination of an aggressive exterior and a refined interior has made the Grand National an enduring icon.

Technical Specifications

Let's get into the hard data. The 1987 Buick Grand National had a wheelbase of 108.1 inches and a length of 190.1 inches. It weighed around 3,500 pounds, which was relatively light for its size. The car featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a coil spring rear suspension. The brakes were power-assisted disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. These specifications, combined with the powerful engine, made the Grand National a well-balanced and capable car. The car also had a fuel capacity of 18 gallons, providing a decent range for long drives.

The Grand National's technical specifications reflect its design as a performance vehicle. The suspension system was engineered to provide a balance of ride comfort and handling capability. The braking system, while adequate for the time, has been a common area for upgrades by enthusiasts today. The car's weight was managed to optimize acceleration and handling. These specifications collectively contributed to the Grand National's reputation as a performance benchmark. These specifications were designed to provide a well-rounded driving experience, making it enjoyable on both the track and the open road.

Key Features of the 1987 Buick Grand National

Turbocharged 3.8L V6 Engine

We've already talked about the engine, but it's worth highlighting again. The turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine was the heart and soul of the 1987 Buick Grand National. It's what made the car so special. This engine was not only powerful but also relatively fuel-efficient for its time. This combination of performance and efficiency was a key selling point for the Grand National. The engine's advanced technology for its era also made it a pioneer in the industry. The turbocharger provided an instant burst of power, making the car incredibly fun to drive.

The turbocharged engine's innovative design was a significant factor in the Grand National’s success. The turbocharger provided a significant boost in horsepower and torque, resulting in rapid acceleration. The integration of an intercooler further enhanced the engine’s performance by cooling the compressed air before it entered the engine. The combination of these features made the Grand National a formidable competitor in the performance car market. The Grand National’s engine not only delivered impressive numbers but also demonstrated the potential of turbocharging technology, influencing the future of the automotive industry.

Unique Exterior Styling

The 1987 Buick Grand National had a distinctive look that set it apart from other cars of the era. The black paint, the aggressive body kit, and the unique wheels all contributed to its menacing appearance. The car's styling was a perfect match for its performance. The design was both functional and stylish, enhancing the car's overall appeal. The subtle badging, including the