The recent auction of a 1987 Buick GNX on Bring a Trailer has us in amazement, as this particular model fetched a remarkable $191,000, making it a standout event in the current landscape of the automotive industry. The 766-mile Buick GNX, bearing the serial number 284 out of 547 produced for a single model year, captivated enthusiasts with its unique features and pristine condition.
Manufactured as part of a collaboration between Buick and McLaren Performance Technologies/ASC, the Grand National Experimental (GNX) was conceived to commemorate the conclusion of the vehicle’s production run. All 547 examples, including this one, were elegantly finished in black, contributing to the exclusivity of the model.
Under the hood, this GNX is powered by a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, which was modified by ASC/McLaren. The engine boasts a Garrett T3 turbocharger, a larger air-to-air intercooler, and a low-restriction exhaust system. These enhancements result in a factory-rated output of 276 horsepower and an impressive 360 lb-ft of torque. The drivetrain features a Turbo-Hydramatic 200-4R four-speed automatic transmission with a factory-upgraded oil cooler, along with a limited-slip differential adorned with a GNX-branded aluminum rear cover.
Externally, the GNX exhibits distinctive cosmetic details, including heat-extracting fender vents, composite wheel arch flares, a three-piece rear spoiler, and GNX badging. The exterior is further adorned with 16″ cross-lace wheels, sport mirrors, automatic power antenna, and dual exhaust outlets. The inclusion of removed factory tires in the sale adds a unique touch.
Inside the cabin, the Black and Sand Gray cloth upholstery, with Turbo 6 embroidery on the front seat headrests, creates an elegant and comfortable atmosphere. The car is equipped with various amenities, such as a power-adjustable driver seat, air conditioning, cruise control, power windows, and a Delco AM/FM/cassette stereo with a graphic equalizer. The three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel complements the GNX-specific Stewart-Warner instrumentation, including a 160-mph speedometer, an 8k-rpm tachometer, and gauges for boost, oil pressure, coolant temperature, and fuel level.
The auctioned GNX, acquired by the selling dealer in 2023, underwent meticulous care, including an oil change in preparation for the sale. With only 766 miles on the odometer, this rare and meticulously preserved Buick GNX represents a collector’s dream, capturing the essence of an era when American muscle cars left an indelible mark on automotive history.
