Introduction to the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National Car

The 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car is a legendary name in American automotive history. Known for its menacing black exterior, turbocharged power, and dominance on the streets, it remains one of the most iconic performance cars of the 1980s. The 1987 model marked the final production year for the Grand National, making it the most refined and powerful version ever built. To this day, enthusiasts and collectors revere the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National as the ultimate symbol of American muscle and turbocharged innovation.

The Birth of a Legend

Buick introduced the Regal Grand National in the early 1980s to revive interest in its mid-size lineup. Initially, it was designed as a limited-edition appearance package, but by 1984, it evolved into a true performance machine. With the introduction of a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine, the Grand National began to build a reputation for defeating even V8-powered rivals. By 1987, Buick engineers had perfected this formula, delivering a car that combined raw power, advanced technology, and unmistakable style.

Turbocharged Engineering Brilliance

At the heart of the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car was its turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine. Unlike most muscle cars that relied on large displacement V8s, the Grand National used forced induction to achieve incredible power output. Equipped with an intercooler and electronic fuel injection, the engine produced 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. These numbers were astonishing for the time, making the Grand National faster than many contemporary sports cars, including the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang GT. The turbocharger gave the car immediate acceleration and a distinctive whistle that enthusiasts still adore.

Performance That Shocked the Industry

The performance capabilities of the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car were nothing short of extraordinary. It could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.9 seconds and complete a quarter mile in approximately 13.9 seconds straight from the factory. These times placed it in the same league as high-end European sports cars of the era. Car and Driver magazine famously dubbed it “The quickest American car of 1987.” Buick’s engineers had managed to extract sports car performance from a family-sized coupe, proving that turbocharging could deliver both efficiency and excitement.

The Distinctive Design

One of the most recognizable features of the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National was its all-black exterior. Everything from the body to the bumpers and even the wheels was finished in deep black paint, giving it a sinister and intimidating appearance. The minimal use of chrome and aggressive stance made it instantly stand out. Its simple yet bold design perfectly matched its high-performance character. The blacked-out theme became a cultural icon, inspiring the nickname “Darth Vader’s car.” The interior continued the dark theme with gray and black tones, bucket seats, and a driver-focused dashboard equipped with analog gauges and a turbo boost indicator.

Handling and Driving Experience

While the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car was best known for straight-line speed, it also offered impressive handling for its time. The suspension system was tuned to balance comfort with performance, providing stability during aggressive acceleration. Power-assisted steering and brakes offered control, while the rear-wheel-drive setup ensured a thrilling driving experience. The combination of a four-speed automatic transmission and the powerful turbo V6 made for seamless power delivery. Drivers who experienced the Grand National often described it as addictive—press the throttle, and the turbo spooled up to deliver an instant surge of power.

The GNX: A Special Edition Powerhouse

The 1987 model year also introduced the GNX, a limited-edition version of the Buick Regal Grand National car developed in collaboration with McLaren Performance Technologies. Only 547 units were produced, and each featured upgraded turbo components, a larger intercooler, and a modified transmission. The GNX produced a staggering 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, making it one of the fastest American cars of the decade. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 4.6 seconds—a figure that rivaled some of the world’s best supercars at the time. The GNX was the ultimate expression of Buick’s engineering prowess and remains one of the most sought-after collector cars today.

Cultural Impact and Legacy

The 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car wasn’t just a machine—it was a cultural phenomenon. Its dark, stealthy appearance and performance capabilities made it a symbol of power and rebellion. It became a fixture in movies, music videos, and television shows, often associated with street racing and high-speed chases. Decades later, it continues to inspire car enthusiasts and restorers who see it as the epitome of American turbocharged performance. The Grand National proved that Buick, a brand known for luxury sedans, could produce a car capable of humbling high-performance sports cars.

Why Enthusiasts Still Love the Grand National

The enduring popularity of the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car comes from its perfect blend of power, style, and rarity. Enthusiasts appreciate its turbocharged V6, which was ahead of its time and paved the way for future performance innovations. Collectors value its exclusivity, especially since it marked the final year of production. Restored Grand Nationals often fetch high prices at auctions, and the GNX versions are considered prized possessions. The car’s blend of old-school muscle and modern technology ensures it remains relevant in today’s performance scene.

Maintenance and Modern Upgrades

Restoring or maintaining a 1987 Buick Regal Grand National requires attention to detail, especially when preserving its original components. Many owners choose to upgrade the turbo system, suspension, or electronics to improve reliability and performance while keeping the car’s character intact. Aftermarket support for the Grand National remains strong, with a wide range of parts available for enthusiasts. Whether kept in stock condition or modified for track use, the Grand National continues to deliver an exhilarating driving experience.

Conclusion

The 1987 Buick Regal Grand National car stands as a testament to American engineering excellence and the potential of turbocharged performance. It broke the mold of traditional muscle cars by proving that a V6 could outperform many V8s. Its blacked-out design, thrilling acceleration, and cultural legacy have cemented its place among the greatest cars of all time. For those who appreciate power, history, and authenticity, the 1987 Buick Regal Grand National remains a symbol of what happens when innovation meets attitude—a true legend that continues to inspire generations of car enthusiasts.