The Buick Grand National holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts, as it represents a remarkable era in American automotive history. Born during the 1980s, the Grand National quickly became synonymous with power, speed, and a distinctive style. In this article, we will delve into the facts and figures that made the Buick Grand National a true automotive legend.
Buick Grand National Production Numbers
The production numbers of the Buick Grand Nationals varied by model year. Here is an overview of the production figures for the Buick Grand National:
1982: The Buick Grand National made a limited production run of 215 units as a performance package for the Regal model.
1983: The Grand National was not produced this year.
1984: The Grand National returned with a larger production volume of 2,000 units.
1985: Buick increased the production of the Grand National to 2,102 units.
1986: The production numbers saw a significant boost, with Buick manufacturing 5,512 Grand Nationals.
1987: This was the final year for the Buick Grand National, and it saw the introduction of the limited-edition GNX. Buick produced 20,193 Grand Nationals, with only 547 of them being GNX models.
It’s worth noting that these production figures are approximate and may vary slightly depending on different sources. The limited production numbers, especially of the GNX variant, contribute to the Buick Grand National’s desirability and collector’s value today.
Raw Power!
At the heart of the Buick Grand National is a beastly powertrain that left its rivals in the dust. The most iconic variant, the GNX, featured a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine that churned out an impressive 276 horsepower and a staggering 360 lb-ft of torque. These figures were exceptional for the era and propelled the Grand National to be one of the fastest American production cars of its time.
Performance Stats
Thanks to its potent engine, the Grand National delivered an exhilarating performance on the road. Accelerating from 0 to 60 mph took just around 5.5 seconds, while the quarter-mile sprint was accomplished in approximately 13.5 seconds, putting the Grand National in the same league as high-performance sports cars of its day.
Timeless Style
The Buick Grand National featured a sinister and aggressive design that turned heads wherever it went. Ditching chrome accents in favor of a stealthy all-black appearance, the Grand National exuded an air of understated menace. Its sleek body lines, flared wheel arches, and iconic “Power 6” badge on the front fenders added to its aura of mystique.
Limited Edition GNX
The pinnacle of Buick Grand Nationals was the GNX, of which only 547 were ever produced. The GNX was a collaboration between Buick and ASC/McLaren, resulting in an even more formidable performance machine. With various enhancements and modifications, including a larger turbocharger and a revised suspension, the GNX’s power output was bumped up to 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, making it an absolute performance powerhouse.
Racing Roots
The Buick Grand National made its presence felt on the racing circuit as well. In the mid-1980s, Buick entered the Grand National in NASCAR racing, where it achieved considerable success. The Grand National’s robust engine and aerodynamic design made it a formidable contender on the track, further solidifying its reputation as a performance-oriented machine.
Collectors Item
Due to its limited production numbers and cult-like following, the Buick Grand National has become a highly sought-after collector’s item. The combination of its unique styling, exceptional performance, and historical significance has made it a prized possession for car enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Today, well-preserved Grand Nationals, particularly the GNX models, command high prices in the collector car market.
The Buick Grand National stands as a true automotive icon, showcasing the power, performance, and style that defined the era of American muscle cars. Its impressive figures and unique design continue to captivate car enthusiasts, cementing its status as a legend in automotive history. Whether it’s the raw power, blistering performance, or limited-edition exclusivity, the Buick Grand National remains a symbol of a bygone era, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of car enthusiasts around the world.
Buick Grand National GNX Specifications
The Buick Grand National, particularly the GNX variant, boasted impressive specifications that contributed to its reputation as a high-performance machine. Here are the key specifications of the Buick Grand Nationals:
Engine:
- Turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine (intercooled in GNX)
- Horsepower: 245-276 horsepower (depending on the model and year)
- Torque: 355-360 lb-ft (depending on the model and year)
Performance:
- 0 to 60 mph: Around 5.5 seconds
- Quarter-mile time: Approximately 13.5 seconds
Transmission:
- 4-speed automatic transmission
Suspension:
- Front suspension: Independent with coil springs
- Rear suspension: Four-link live axle with coil springs
Brakes:
- Power-assisted front disc brakes
- Rear drum brakes
Dimensions:
- Length: Approximately 200 inches
- Width: Approximately 73 inches
- Height: Approximately 54 inches
- Wheelbase: Approximately 108 inches
Weight:
- Approximately 3,500 to 3,800 pounds (depending on the model and year)
Limited Edition GNX (Grand National Experimental):
- Only 547 GNX models were produced in 1987
Special GNX Features:
- Enhanced engine performance with a larger turbocharger and revised engine calibration
- Upgraded intercooler system
- Stiffer suspension and adjustable rear control arms
- Reinforced transmission
- Unique exterior styling with GNX badges and aerodynamic enhancements
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