54k-Mile 1987 Buick GNX

Description

OFFERED WITHOUT RESERVE

Huntsville, Alabama — or “Rocket City,” as we know it — is home to NASA rocket-propulsion research and development. Nothing quite encapsulates the launch and excitement of the region as this out-of-world collection of cars including movie cars and tributes, desirable classics, and a rocket truck itself. 3… 2… 1… These cars are ready for blastoff, and all will be launched to new homes and garages as all lots are presented with NO RESERVE.      *  *  * 

“In a world of sleek shapes and refined manners, the GNX is an axe-wielding barbarian laying waste to everything in its path.” Car and Driver wasn’t just being dramatic: at a time when Corvettes hit 60 mph in six seconds, this all-black Buick was posting supercar numbers: 4.7 seconds to 60, and 13.5 seconds in the quarter mile — the same ET as a 1970 Chevelle LS6!

The GNX was the turbo V6 Grand National’s swan song, and Buick turned to ASC/McLaren to convert regular 245-hp 1987 GNs into legends. The GNX’s modifications included a quicker-spooling ceramic turbo, a more efficient intercooling system, dual exhaust, a recalibrated PROM, and body bracing to handle an unofficial 300 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. But just as important was the GNX’s increased traction: a unique rear suspension lifted the body during launch while pushing the tires down, creating neck-snapping acceleration on street tires. Add in the Darth Vader-like exterior and a unique interior, and the GNX was as mean looking as it was quick.

And GNX #121 of 547 isn’t just rare, it also comes with the original window sticker, as well as the original jacket, book, and letter included with every GNX sold.

Highlights 

• Offered from the Rocket City Collection

• One-of-547 Buick GNX was 1987’s quickest American performance car  

• 3.8-liter Buick turbo V6 underrated at “276” hp and “360” lb-ft of torque 

• TH200-4R four-speed automatic transmission with overdrive 

• Finished in (19U) Black with (583) Grey/Black cloth interior 

• Hardtop-only GNXs had every available GN option except a moonroof/T-tops 

• GNX-specific engine, transmission, chassis/suspension, body, and interior modifications by ASC/McLaren 

• Clean CARFAX History Report 

Features 

• GNX-specific modifications by ASC/McLaren include: 

• Engine: 

  • Garrett T-3 turbocharger with ceramic impeller wheel and larger housing 

  • More efficient intercooler with higher fin count 

  • Special heat-resistant coating on intercooler-to-throttle body up pipe 

  • Recalibrated PROM “chip” for 15 psi boost, 3 psi more than the Grand National 

  • GNX heat shield 

• Transmission: 

  • Recalibrated valve body for firmer redline shifts 

  • Radiator-mounted transmission cooler 

• Chassis/Suspension: 

  • Dual exhaust system with special tubing to clear rear suspension  

  • Unique five-link torque arm/panhard rod rear suspension 

  • Unique aluminum differential cover with torque arm mount and GNX embossing 

  • Front torque arm mount crossmember that doubled as a frame brace 

  • Metal bracing behind rear seats

  • Extra body bushings for additional rigidity 

• Body: 

  • 16x8-inch lace alloy wheels with black centers and GNX center caps 

  • 245/50VR16 front, 255/50VR16 rear Goodyear Eagle Gatorback tires (now BF Goodrich g-Force Sport Comp-2 tires) 

  • Composite fender flares for larger wheel/tire clearance 

  • GNX badging on grille and trunk 

  • Angular Buick portholes in fenders 

• Interior: 

  • Circular Stewart-Warner speedometer, tachometer, boost, oil pressure, water temp, voltage, and fuel level gauges 

  • Numbered plaque on passenger-side dash 

Known Imperfections 

• Hood struts are weak 

• Paint chips on nose 

• Paint scuffs on passenger side windshield frame 

• Paint chip on passenger side door lock area 

• Minor paint bubbles on trunk lid 

• Power antenna housing is loose 

• Minor cracking and window trim peeling around passenger B-pillar area 

• Tachometer non-operative 

• Door lock buttons don’t work 

• AC blows cool air but not cold

• Radio is non-operation

Included 

• Keys 

• Owner’s manual 

• Maintenance booklet and warranty info 

• Original Buick GNX book and letter from Martyn Schorr 

• Original GNX window sticker and Bill of Sale

• Original GNX jacket size Large 

• GNX floor mats 

• Binder of service receipts since new

Ownership History

This 1987 Buick GNX was originally delivered to Tom Endicott Buick in Pompano Beach, Florida. The accompanying CARFAX Vehicle History Report places this 1987 Buick GNX in Florida, New York, Connecticut, and California. It is unknown if the original ceramic turbocharger is still installed, or has been replaced with a different version.

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Auctions Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner of this vehicle. Broad Arrow Auctions is a wholly owned subsidiary of Hagerty.

Contact: Ramsey Potts Phone: 912.508.4096 email: rpotts@hagerty.com