1987 Buick Grand National: Specs, Features & More

Hey car enthusiasts! Ever heard of the 1987 Buick Grand National? If you haven't, you're in for a treat. This car is a legend, a true icon of the 80s, and a muscle car that blended performance with a touch of class. Today, we're diving deep into the specs, features, and everything that makes the '87 Grand National so special. Buckle up, guys, because this is going to be a fun ride!

Unveiling the Legend: The Buick Grand National's Rise to Fame

Alright, before we get our hands dirty with the technical stuff, let's talk about why the 1987 Buick Grand National is such a big deal. Back in the mid-1980s, the American muscle car scene was undergoing a bit of a transformation. The gas-guzzling, fire-breathing monsters of the past were being replaced by something... different. Enter the Grand National. Buick, known for its more luxurious and refined vehicles, took a gamble and decided to unleash a beast upon the world. The result? A car that could outrun many of its contemporary rivals, all while looking incredibly sleek and sophisticated. The Grand National wasn't just fast; it was stealthy. Its all-black exterior, subtle badging, and menacing presence made it a favorite among car enthusiasts and collectors alike. It wasn't just a car; it was a statement. It was a symbol of power, performance, and a rebellious spirit. The 1987 Buick Grand National was the peak of this evolution, the final year of production, and arguably the most desirable of the bunch. It wasn't just fast; it was a sleeper, a car that could surprise anyone who dared to underestimate it. That is why it became such a timeless classic. One of the main reasons it became so iconic is its unique design. The all-black exterior was a stark contrast to the more colorful cars of the time. The black paint, combined with the subtle badging and aggressive stance, gave the car a menacing appearance. The car's popularity grew exponentially during its production run. Because it was the final year of production, the '87 models are the most sought after.

The impact of the Grand National on the automotive world cannot be overstated. It single-handedly proved that Buick, a brand often associated with luxury and comfort, could build a serious performance machine. The car's success paved the way for other manufacturers to rethink their approach to performance, and it helped to revitalize the muscle car era. To this day, the Grand National remains a highly collectible car, with well-maintained examples fetching impressive prices at auctions and private sales. Its legacy continues to inspire car enthusiasts and tuners, and its influence can be seen in the design and performance of modern-day muscle cars. The '87 Grand National is more than just a car; it's a piece of automotive history.

1987 Buick Grand National Specs: Power and Performance

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty of what made the 1987 Buick Grand National tick. Under the hood, this car packed a serious punch. The heart of the Grand National was its turbocharged 3.8-liter V6 engine. This wasn't your grandpa's Buick engine, folks. This was a force to be reckoned with. The engine produced a staggering 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque. Keep in mind that this was the 1980s, and these were impressive numbers. The turbocharger played a crucial role, allowing the engine to generate a significant amount of power quickly. This resulted in blistering acceleration and a top speed that could rival many sports cars of the era. The engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, which helped to efficiently transfer the power to the rear wheels. The combination of the turbocharged engine and the responsive transmission made the Grand National an absolute blast to drive. Acceleration was brisk, and the car had plenty of power for passing and merging onto the highway. The car's performance wasn't just about straight-line speed; it also handled surprisingly well for a car of its size. The suspension was tuned for performance, providing a firm ride and minimal body roll. This made the Grand National a capable and enjoyable car to drive on twisty roads.

The car's performance was not just about the engine. The Grand National had several other features that contributed to its impressive performance. The car's lightweight construction, for example, played a significant role in its ability to accelerate quickly. The car's aerodynamic design also helped to reduce drag, allowing it to reach higher speeds. The car's braking system was also upgraded, providing the stopping power needed to handle the car's performance. The car's tires were also specifically designed for performance, providing excellent grip and handling. All of these features combined to make the 1987 Buick Grand National a formidable performance machine. The car was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds, which was a remarkable feat for the time. The car's top speed was electronically limited to 124 mph, but some owners have reported achieving higher speeds after making modifications. The Grand National's performance was so impressive that it earned the car a reputation as a street-legal drag racer.

Exploring the Features: Inside and Out

Beyond the raw power, the 1987 Buick Grand National was also a well-appointed car, offering a comfortable and stylish interior. Let's start with the exterior. The all-black paint job was, without a doubt, the car's most defining feature. It gave the car a menacing and aggressive look, setting it apart from other cars on the road. The car also featured subtle badging, including the