The 1987 Buick Grand National stands as one of the most iconic American performance cars of the 1980s. Born in an era when muscle cars were thought to be long gone, this blacked-out turbocharged Buick redefined what a domestic performance car could be. With its sinister looks, remarkable power, and lasting influence on car culture, the 1987 Buick Grand National remains a legend among enthusiasts and collectors alike. Its story is not only about speed but also about the resurgence of American performance during a time of automotive change.
The Origins of the Grand National
The Buick Grand National traces its roots back to the early 1980s, when Buick sought to revitalize its image. Buick was known primarily for its comfortable, conservative vehicles, but executives wanted to show that the brand could also deliver performance. The company had been enjoying success in NASCAR racing, where the “Grand National” name originated. In 1982, Buick introduced a special edition of its Regal model, called the Grand National, to celebrate its racing achievements. That first Grand National was more of a visual package than a true performance car, featuring silver and gray paint with some mild performance upgrades. However, it set the stage for something greater.
By 1984, Buick engineers had turned the Grand National into a serious performance machine. They equipped it with a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, transforming the previously mild-mannered Regal into a street-dominating powerhouse. The formula proved so successful that it evolved into one of the most feared performance cars of the 1980s.
The Evolution Toward 1987
Each year between 1984 and 1987, the Buick Grand National grew more refined and powerful. The 1986 model year introduced an intercooler, a key addition that significantly increased horsepower and torque. By the time the 1987 Buick Grand National rolled off the assembly line, it had reached its ultimate form. It was the final year of production, and Buick made sure it went out with a bang.
Under the hood, the 1987 Buick Grand National featured the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine producing a factory-rated 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. These numbers might not sound extraordinary by modern standards, but in the mid-1980s, they were astonishing—especially from a V6. The Grand National could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in about 4.9 seconds and complete the quarter mile in the low 13-second range, making it faster than most contemporary V8-powered muscle cars and even some exotics of the time.
Design: The Sinister Black Beauty
The 1987 Buick Grand National’s visual appeal played a huge role in its legendary status. Unlike the flashy and colorful muscle cars of the past, the Grand National came exclusively in black. The all-black exterior, combined with subtle badging and dark trim, gave the car an intimidating and stealthy presence. It quickly earned the nickname “Darth Vader’s car,” perfectly capturing its menacing persona.
Inside, the Grand National featured a straightforward and functional interior. The gray and black color scheme matched its exterior tone, and the cockpit was focused on the driver. The dashboard featured turbo boost gauges, hinting at the car’s true nature. While not luxurious by Buick standards, the interior balanced comfort and performance with a purpose-driven design.
The Technology Behind the Power
The secret to the 1987 Buick Grand National’s performance was its advanced turbocharged engine technology. Buick engineers worked tirelessly to perfect the 3.8-liter V6, which featured sequential fuel injection, a Garrett T3 turbocharger, and an air-to-air intercooler. This setup allowed for precise fuel delivery and improved efficiency, giving the car remarkable performance for its time. The power was delivered through a four-speed automatic transmission that helped manage the turbocharged torque smoothly and effectively.
Buick’s decision to use a turbo V6 instead of a traditional V8 was revolutionary. It showcased how forced induction could produce immense power without the need for massive displacement. This approach foreshadowed the turbocharging trend that dominates modern performance cars today.
Performance That Shocked the World
In the mid-1980s, American performance cars were still recovering from the emissions restrictions and fuel crises of the previous decade. Many enthusiasts assumed the muscle car era was over. Then came the 1987 Buick Grand National, a car that shattered those assumptions. It was faster than a Chevrolet Corvette of the same year, outpacing many of its rivals at the drag strip. Automotive magazines and enthusiasts were stunned—a Buick, of all brands, had built the quickest production car in America.
The Grand National became a favorite among street racers, thanks to its incredible acceleration and tuning potential. Its turbocharged engine responded well to modifications, allowing owners to extract even more power with relatively simple upgrades. This tunability helped the car earn a cult following that endures to this day.
The Rarity and Collectibility
Because 1987 was the final production year, the Buick Grand National became an instant collector’s item. Buick built around 20,193 units that year, making it the most common Grand National, but still a relatively low number compared to mainstream cars. Today, well-preserved examples command high prices in the collector car market, especially those with low mileage and original components.
The Grand National’s successor, the 1987 Buick GNX (Grand National Experimental), took performance even further. Produced in limited numbers—only 547 units—the GNX was a collaboration between Buick and McLaren Performance Technologies. It featured upgraded components and a more powerful engine, pushing output to a staggering 276 horsepower. While the GNX represents the ultimate evolution, the standard 1987 Buick Grand National remains the most recognized and accessible version of this performance legend.
The Cultural Impact
Beyond its performance credentials, the 1987 Buick Grand National left a lasting impression on popular culture. Its dark, aggressive look and underdog story made it a symbol of American performance ingenuity. The car appeared in numerous movies, TV shows, and music videos, often representing power, rebellion, and style. Enthusiasts from various generations continue to admire its unique character—a mix of muscle car attitude and technological innovation.
The Grand National’s influence extends beyond nostalgia. It demonstrated that performance could come from unexpected places and that a well-engineered V6 could outperform larger engines. It inspired future generations of turbocharged vehicles, including the performance models that dominate today’s automotive landscape.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
The 1987 Buick Grand National’s legacy is one of revival and innovation. It proved that American manufacturers could adapt to changing times while still delivering exhilarating performance. The Grand National helped reestablish Buick’s credibility as a performance brand, a reputation that continues to echo through models like the modern Regal GS.
Even decades later, the Grand National remains a benchmark for enthusiasts. Car shows, drag strips, and collector auctions regularly feature pristine examples that draw massive attention. Its blend of turbocharged technology, menacing design, and unexpected dominance over more established sports cars cemented its place in automotive history.
Conclusion
The 1987 Buick Grand National is more than just a car; it’s an icon of American performance and engineering brilliance. In a decade defined by excess and style, this blacked-out turbo Buick delivered substance and speed in equal measure. It captured the spirit of innovation, challenged expectations, and proved that power could come from ingenuity rather than size. Today, the Grand National stands as a timeless symbol of 1980s performance—one that continues to inspire admiration and respect among car lovers around the world. Its story remains a testament to the fact that legends are not born overnight; they are built, one turbocharged revolution at a time.