The automotive world has witnessed many iconic muscle cars over the decades, but few have achieved the legendary status of the 1987 Buick Grand National. Once considered an underdog in the muscle car scene, this turbocharged beast from the 1980s has become one of the most sought-after collector cars today. What was once a modestly priced performance coupe has transformed into a high-value collectible commanding astonishing prices at auctions and private sales. The reasons behind its meteoric rise lie in its unique history, bold design, and its role as a symbol of the end of an era in American automotive performance.
The Birth of a Turbocharged Legend
In the early 1980s, Buick was not typically associated with raw power or street performance. The brand was seen as a producer of luxury vehicles catering to comfort and refinement rather than speed. However, Buick’s engineers had other plans. They saw potential in turbocharging technology and wanted to redefine the company’s image. The Grand National line was introduced in 1982 as a limited-edition model celebrating Buick’s success in NASCAR. But it was in 1984 that the Grand National began to evolve into a true performance car, equipped with a turbocharged V6 engine.
By 1987, Buick had perfected the formula. The 1987 Buick Grand National was the final and most powerful version, boasting a 3.8-liter turbocharged V6 producing 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. These numbers might not sound extraordinary by modern standards, but in the 1980s, they were enough to embarrass some of the most revered V8-powered cars of the time, including the Chevrolet Corvette and Ford Mustang GT.
A Wolf in Black Clothing
One of the most recognizable features of the 1987 Buick Grand National is its all-black exterior. Buick ditched chrome trim in favor of a menacing, monochromatic blacked-out look that made the car instantly intimidating. There were no flashy graphics or decals—just a dark, aggressive presence that matched its street reputation. The car’s stealthy design earned it the nickname “Darth Vader’s car,” a fitting description for its sinister looks and powerful performance.
Inside, the Grand National featured a driver-focused cockpit with sporty bucket seats, a tachometer, and a turbo boost gauge—reminding the driver that this was not a typical Buick. The combination of subtle luxury and muscle performance created a unique identity that still resonates with enthusiasts today.
Performance That Shattered Expectations
The 1987 Buick Grand National wasn’t just about looks; it was a performance monster. Equipped with a Garrett T3 turbocharger and an intercooler, the car could sprint from 0 to 60 mph in just under 5 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in the low 13-second range. These numbers were incredible for a mid-1980s American production car. In fact, the Grand National was often faster than many contemporary sports cars costing thousands more.
Its performance was so impressive that even automotive journalists of the era were stunned. Car and Driver famously described the Grand National as “a black, plastic-clad, Darth Vader car” that could outperform a Ferrari 308 in a straight line. This was unheard of from a Buick—a brand known for its sedans and comfort cruisers.
The GNX: The Ultimate Grand National
While the 1987 Buick Grand National was a legend in its own right, Buick took things to an even higher level with the limited-production GNX. Developed in partnership with McLaren Performance Technologies and ASC, only 547 units of the GNX were produced in 1987, making it one of the rarest and most valuable American cars of the decade.
The GNX was a high-performance evolution of the Grand National, with an upgraded turbocharger, a more efficient intercooler, and a revised suspension system. Officially rated at 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque, the GNX was rumored to produce closer to 300 horsepower in reality. It was capable of reaching 60 mph in around 4.7 seconds, placing it in supercar territory for its time.
Today, the GNX is a crown jewel among collectors, often selling for over $200,000 at auctions. Even well-preserved 1987 Buick Grand National models without the GNX badge can fetch impressive prices due to their cult status.
Why Collectors Are Paying Big
Several factors contribute to the rising value of the 1987 Buick Grand National in today’s collector market. First and foremost is rarity. With production numbers relatively low compared to mainstream vehicles, surviving examples in original condition are becoming increasingly scarce. Collectors know that as the supply diminishes, demand will only increase.
Secondly, nostalgia plays a huge role. The 1980s were a transformative period for the American automotive industry, and the Grand National represented the last gasp of traditional American muscle before emissions regulations and changing tastes shifted the market. For many enthusiasts who grew up during that decade, owning a 1987 Buick Grand National is like reclaiming a piece of their youth.
Another reason collectors are paying top dollar is the car’s performance heritage. The Grand National has a legitimate claim to being one of the fastest cars of its time, and its underdog story only adds to its appeal. It wasn’t built by a performance brand like Chevrolet or Pontiac—it was a Buick, which made its dominance on the drag strip all the more impressive.
Finally, the car’s design and cultural significance have solidified its place as an icon. The blacked-out aesthetic and muscular stance have aged beautifully, and appearances in movies, television shows, and music videos have kept its legend alive. From its role in Fast & Furious to countless appearances in pop culture, the Grand National remains a symbol of 1980s cool.
The Market Value and Future Outlook
In recent years, prices for the 1987 Buick Grand National have surged dramatically. Well-preserved, low-mileage examples routinely sell for $70,000 to $100,000, while the ultra-rare GNX can command prices upward of $250,000. This trend shows no signs of slowing down, as collectors continue to recognize the car’s significance and rarity.
The demand for authentic, unmodified models is particularly high. Many Grand Nationals were driven hard or modified for performance, which makes finding one in original condition increasingly difficult. Vehicles with documented histories, original paint, and factory components are considered blue-chip collectibles in today’s market.
Experts predict that the 1987 Buick Grand National will continue to appreciate in value, much like classic American muscle cars from the 1960s and 1970s did in previous decades. Its combination of performance, rarity, and cultural impact ensures its place as one of the most desirable vehicles from the modern classic era.
Conclusion
The 1987 Buick Grand National is more than just a car—it’s a symbol of rebellion, innovation, and American engineering ingenuity. Born during a time when muscle cars were thought to be extinct, it defied expectations and became an icon of turbocharged performance. Today, collectors are paying big because the Grand National represents a perfect storm of rarity, history, and nostalgia.