What's up, gearheads? Today, we're diving deep into a legend, the 1987 Buick Grand National. If you're a fan of American muscle, this car is probably already on your radar. It's more than just a car; it's an icon, a symbol of a specific era in automotive history, and let's be honest, it's just plain cool. We're talking about a car that wasn't just fast, it was aggressively fast, especially for its time. The 1987 model year marked the final production year for the GN, and Buick really pulled out all the stops. This wasn't just a facelift; it was a statement. They wanted to send this legendary car off with a bang, and boy, did they succeed. This article will cover all the juicy details, from its heart-pounding engine performance to its surprisingly sophisticated (for the era) suspension and braking systems. We'll also touch on the iconic styling that makes it instantly recognizable and highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Get ready to rev your engines, because we're about to explore what makes the 1987 Buick Grand National such a timeless classic. We'll be breaking down the key specifications that contributed to its legendary status, so buckle up and let's get into it!

Engine Powerhouse: The Turbocharged V6

Let's talk about the heart of the beast, guys. The 1987 Buick Grand National specs wouldn't be complete without diving into its legendary engine. Forget V8s for a sec; Buick decided to go a different route, and it paid off big time. Under the hood, you'll find a 3.8-liter turbocharged V6 engine. Now, don't let the V6 fool you into thinking it's underpowered. This bad boy was a powerhouse, producing a staggering 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft of torque right off the factory floor. What's even more impressive is that this torque figure was available at a very low RPM, giving the Grand National that signature punchy acceleration. This wasn't just some slapped-together engine; it was a meticulously engineered piece of machinery. Buick used a Garrett T-3 turbocharger, coupled with an air-to-air intercooler, to force-feed air into the engine. This combination allowed for significantly increased power output while keeping temperatures in check. The engine also featured sequential fuel injection, which was quite advanced for the mid-80s, ensuring precise fuel delivery and optimal performance. The engineers at Buick really knew what they were doing, tuning this V6 to deliver performance that rivaled and often surpassed many of its V8 competitors. The engine code for this magnificent powerplant is the LC2, and it became synonymous with performance and innovation. The intake and exhaust manifolds were designed for optimal flow, and the entire engine was built to handle the increased stress of turbocharging. This commitment to performance engineering is why the Grand National earned its reputation as a true muscle car, capable of running with the best of them. The sheer torque output meant that from a standstill, the Grand National could launch forward with incredible urgency, pinning you back in your seat. It was a testament to how effective forced induction could be when implemented correctly, and Buick absolutely nailed it with the GN's V6.

Transmission and Drivetrain

Now, how does all that power get to the wheels? The 1987 Buick Grand National specs include a robust drivetrain designed to handle the engine's output. For the 1987 model year, the Grand National came exclusively with a 4-speed automatic transmission. While some purists might yearn for a manual, Buick opted for an automatic that was beefed up to cope with the turbo V6's torque. This transmission was known for its durability and its ability to shift quickly, allowing the driver to keep the engine in its sweet spot for maximum acceleration. Paired with this automatic was a limited-slip differential. This was a crucial component for ensuring that power was distributed effectively to both rear wheels, especially during hard acceleration. Without it, you'd likely be left with one tire spinning uselessly, which isn't ideal for getting off the line quickly. The rear-wheel-drive setup, combined with the potent engine and the limited-slip diff, is what gave the Grand National its legendary traction and acceleration capabilities. The gearing was also optimized for performance, providing a good balance between quick off-the-line sprints and reasonable cruising capabilities. While it might not have the thrill of a clutch pedal for some, the automatic transmission in the GN was a competent partner to the turbocharged V6, ensuring that the power was delivered smoothly and efficiently. It was part of the overall package that made the Grand National such a formidable performance machine. The torque converter was also designed to allow for a strong initial launch, further enhancing its drag-strip prowess. Buick understood that for a car like this, getting the power down effectively was just as important as generating it in the first place. The combination of the stout automatic and the LSD meant that the Grand National was a serious contender straight from the factory, requiring minimal modifications to achieve impressive performance figures.

Performance Figures

Let's talk numbers, because this is where the 1987 Buick Grand National specs really shine. This car was blisteringly fast. We're talking 0-60 mph times in the low to mid-5-second range. That's faster than many contemporary V8 muscle cars and even some sports cars! Quarter-mile times were typically in the low to mid-13-second range, again, phenomenal for 1987. These figures weren't just theoretical; they were achievable with a skilled driver and good traction. The Grand National's ability to put its power down effectively, thanks to that potent V6, intercooler, and limited-slip differential, played a massive role. It was a car that could surprise a lot of people on a drag strip or a spirited drive. The torque steer was present, sure, but it was part of the character, a reminder of the raw power being unleashed. It was this combination of raw acceleration, distinctive styling, and a surprisingly potent V6 that cemented the Grand National's legendary status. It proved that you didn't always need a big V8 to achieve supercar-level performance. The Grand National was a technological marvel for its time, showcasing the potential of turbocharging and electronic fuel injection. Its performance figures were not just competitive; they were groundbreaking, earning it respect from enthusiasts and rivals alike. The sound of that turbo spooling up and the subsequent surge of power was an addictive experience, making every drive an event. It was a car that demanded attention and delivered thrills in spades. The fact that these performance figures are still respectable today is a testament to the engineering prowess that went into this iconic machine. It wasn't just about speed; it was about the feeling of speed, the aggressive growl, and the intimidating presence it commanded.

Exterior and Interior Styling

Beyond the impressive 1987 Buick Grand National specs under the hood, the car's menacing looks are a huge part of its appeal. It was deliberately designed to be stealthy, almost menacing. The all-black paint scheme, often referred to as