Let's dive into the iconic 1987 Buick Grand National, a car that cemented its place in automotive history with its turbocharged performance and distinctive styling. For car enthusiasts and collectors alike, understanding the specifications of this legendary vehicle is crucial. This article explores everything you need to know about the 1987 Buick Grand National specs, from its engine and performance figures to its dimensions, features, and production numbers. Get ready to explore what made this car a true American muscle icon.

Engine and Performance

The heart of the 1987 Buick Grand National lies in its turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine. This powerplant was a significant departure from the traditional large-displacement V8s that defined the muscle car era, proving that efficiency and performance could coexist. The engine, officially designated as the LC2, was rated at 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. However, many enthusiasts believe that these figures were intentionally understated by Buick to avoid overshadowing other models in the GM lineup. The turbocharger, supplied by Garrett, played a crucial role in boosting the engine's output, providing a significant surge of power that made the Grand National incredibly quick for its time. The engine also featured sequential fuel injection, which helped to optimize fuel delivery and improve overall efficiency.

The performance figures of the 1987 Buick Grand National were truly impressive. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 6.1 seconds, a feat that rivaled many contemporary sports cars. The quarter-mile time was equally remarkable, with the Grand National completing the distance in around 14.7 seconds at a speed of 98 mph. These numbers underscored the car's status as a serious performance machine, capable of holding its own against much more expensive and exotic competitors. The combination of turbocharged power and relatively light weight gave the Grand National a distinct advantage on the street and at the drag strip. The engine's responsiveness and the car's overall handling made it a favorite among enthusiasts who appreciated both straight-line speed and cornering ability. The Grand National's performance capabilities were a major factor in its enduring popularity and its reputation as a modern classic.

The engine also benefited from several key technologies that enhanced its reliability and durability. The sequential fuel injection system ensured that each cylinder received the optimal amount of fuel, which improved combustion efficiency and reduced the risk of engine knock. The turbocharger was designed to withstand high temperatures and pressures, ensuring consistent performance under demanding conditions. The engine block was made from a durable cast iron alloy, which provided excellent strength and heat resistance. These features, combined with Buick's engineering expertise, resulted in an engine that was both powerful and reliable. The engine's robust design also made it a popular platform for aftermarket modifications, with many enthusiasts upgrading the turbocharger, fuel system, and exhaust to extract even more power. The 1987 Buick Grand National's engine remains a benchmark for turbocharged performance, showcasing the potential of forced induction technology in a production vehicle.

Dimensions and Weight

The 1987 Buick Grand National's dimensions contributed to its distinctive look and balanced handling. It had a wheelbase of 108.1 inches, an overall length of 200.6 inches, a width of 71.7 inches, and a height of 55.1 inches. These dimensions gave the car a long, low profile that was both sporty and elegant. The relatively wide track also helped to improve stability and handling, making the Grand National feel planted and confident on the road. The car's size was well-proportioned, with a balanced distribution of weight that enhanced its overall driving dynamics. The dimensions also provided a comfortable interior space, with ample room for both front and rear passengers. The trunk was also surprisingly spacious, offering plenty of cargo capacity for a performance car.

The weight of the 1987 Buick Grand National was approximately 3,540 pounds. This relatively light weight, combined with the engine's impressive power output, resulted in an excellent power-to-weight ratio. The car's lightweight construction contributed to its quick acceleration and nimble handling. Buick engineers carefully optimized the car's structure to minimize weight without compromising strength or safety. The use of lightweight materials in key areas, such as the aluminum wheels and the composite hood, helped to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle. The Grand National's weight was also well-distributed, with a near-perfect balance between the front and rear axles. This balanced weight distribution further enhanced the car's handling characteristics, making it feel responsive and predictable in corners.

The Grand National's dimensions and weight played a crucial role in its overall performance and appeal. The car's sleek profile and balanced proportions gave it a distinctive look that set it apart from other vehicles on the road. The lightweight construction and optimized weight distribution contributed to its quick acceleration, nimble handling, and overall driving enjoyment. The Grand National's dimensions also provided a comfortable and practical interior, making it a versatile vehicle that could be used for both daily commuting and weekend cruising. The combination of performance, style, and practicality made the 1987 Buick Grand National a truly exceptional car that continues to be admired and sought after by enthusiasts today.

Interior and Features

The 1987 Buick Grand National's interior was designed to provide a comfortable and functional environment for both the driver and passengers. The seats were upholstered in a durable and supportive fabric, with adjustable lumbar support for added comfort. The dashboard featured a comprehensive array of gauges, including a speedometer, tachometer, boost gauge, and fuel gauge, providing the driver with essential information about the car's performance. The center console housed the gear shifter, climate controls, and radio, all within easy reach of the driver. The interior was also equipped with power windows, power locks, and air conditioning, adding to the car's convenience and comfort. The overall design of the interior was simple and understated, with a focus on functionality and ease of use.

Key features of the 1987 Buick Grand National included a tilt steering wheel, which allowed the driver to adjust the steering wheel to their preferred position. The car also came standard with a Delco AM/FM stereo system, which provided decent sound quality for its time. Optional features included a cassette player and a premium sound system, which offered enhanced audio performance. The Grand National also featured a rear window defogger, which helped to improve visibility in inclement weather. The car's suspension was tuned for performance, with stiffer springs and shocks that provided improved handling and control. The brakes were also upgraded, with larger rotors and calipers that provided increased stopping power. These features, combined with the car's turbocharged engine, made the Grand National a formidable performance machine.

The interior of the 1987 Buick Grand National was also designed with safety in mind. The car featured seat belts for all occupants, as well as padded dashboards and door panels to help protect against injury in the event of a collision. The car's frame was also designed to absorb impact energy, providing additional protection for the occupants. The Grand National's safety features were state-of-the-art for its time, reflecting Buick's commitment to building safe and reliable vehicles. The combination of comfort, convenience, performance, and safety made the Grand National a well-rounded and desirable car. The car's interior and features were carefully designed to enhance the driving experience and provide a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both the driver and passengers. The 1987 Buick Grand National remains a testament to Buick's engineering excellence and its ability to build cars that were both stylish and functional.

Production Numbers and Rarity

The 1987 Buick Grand National was the final year of production for this iconic model, and it saw the highest production numbers of any Grand National year. A total of 20,740 Grand Nationals were produced in 1987, making it relatively common compared to some of the earlier years. However, despite the relatively high production numbers, the Grand National remains a highly sought-after collector car, with prices continuing to rise in recent years. The car's popularity is due to its combination of performance, styling, and historical significance. The Grand National represents the pinnacle of Buick's turbocharged performance era, and it is considered by many to be one of the greatest American muscle cars of all time.

While 20,740 Grand Nationals were produced, the even more exclusive GNX saw just 547 units. The GNX, short for Grand National Experimental, was a collaboration between Buick and McLaren Performance Technologies/ASC. It featured numerous performance upgrades, including a more powerful engine, improved suspension, and unique styling cues. The GNX was significantly faster and more exclusive than the standard Grand National, and it is now one of the most valuable and sought-after muscle cars of the 1980s. The limited production numbers of the GNX have contributed to its rarity and desirability among collectors. The GNX represents the ultimate expression of Buick's turbocharged performance, and it is a fitting tribute to the Grand National's legacy.

The 1987 Buick Grand National's production numbers, while relatively high compared to other years, do not diminish its status as a collector car. The car's enduring popularity and historical significance ensure that it will continue to be admired and sought after by enthusiasts for years to come. The combination of performance, styling, and rarity makes the Grand National a truly special car that represents the best of American automotive engineering. The Grand National's legacy is further enhanced by the existence of the GNX, which serves as a reminder of Buick's commitment to pushing the boundaries of performance. The 1987 Buick Grand National remains a symbol of American muscle and a testament to the power of turbocharged technology.