The '86 Grand National sported an even more impressive 235hp rating, the result of some subtle reworking of engine components and an all-important intercooler. The '87 Grand National was the hottest production GN ever built, and Buick sold a boatload (20,193) of these impressive machines. The exception to the rule was a short run of special Grand Nationals labeled GNX. A total of 547 of these cars, with their unique fenders (with real heat venting scoops installed), big tires, and special suspensions, were sold. Selling for the bargain price of $29,000, the GNX is the Holy Grail for black Buick fans.
For those into the steak without the sizzle, find one of the rare '84-'87 T-Type Buicks. These cars had all the performance goodies and none of the outside Grand National cladding.
While the '80s may not be remembered as the pinnacle of performance, the Grand National is a worthy entry into the musclecar ranks. After all, any car that can run low 14-second quarter-mile times and has a trunk big enough to handle five pieces of fullsize luggage and a floorjack is an amazing muscle machine.
Power Rating
'84: 200 hp/300 lb-ft
'85: 200 hp/300 lb-ft
'86: 235 hp/330 lb-ft
'87: 245 hp/355 lb-ft
GNX
Horsepower: 275 @ 4,400 rpm
Torque: 360 lb-ft @ 3,000 rpm
Performance: 0-60 in 5.5 seconds, quarter-mile in 13.43 seconds @ 103 mph