A remarkably well-preserved 1987 Buick GNX, still with its original owner, is commanding significant attention at auction as bidding passes the six-figure mark. The car, numbered 030 of 547 units produced during the GNX’s single-year run, remains one of the most sought-after performance models of the 1980s. The example currently offered was purchased new at Dave Mason Buick in Indianapolis and has accumulated only 7,000 miles since leaving the showroom.
Finished exclusively in black like every GNX, the car retains the distinctive appearance elements engineered through Buick’s collaboration with McLaren Performance Technologies and ASC. The model was developed to close out production of the Grand National with a more aggressive, track-influenced package. Its exterior includes fender vents designed for heat extraction, composite wheel-arch flares, a three-piece rear spoiler and GNX badging. Additional features include an automatic power antenna, dual exhaust outlets and sport mirrors. The bumper filler panels were replaced in late 2024.
Factory 16-inch cross-lace wheels remain fitted with period Goodyear VR50 tires carrying pre-2000 date codes. The GNX uses front suspension components shared with the standard Grand National, while the rear setup incorporates upgrades such as a torque arm, a Panhard rod and an added frame cross member. Braking is handled by power-assisted front discs and rear drums, and the brake assist assembly was replaced in 2021.
The interior presents in black and Sand Gray cloth, including Turbo 6-embroidered bucket seats. Comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, cruise control, power windows and a power-adjustable driver’s seat. The dashboard carries the GNX #030 identification plaque. Instrumentation from Stewart-Warner includes a 160-mph speedometer, an 8,000-rpm tachometer and gauges for boost, oil pressure, coolant temperature and fuel level.
Under the hood, the 3.8-liter turbocharged V6 retains the ASC/McLaren enhancements that distinguished the GNX from the Grand National. These include a Garrett T3 turbocharger under a GNX-branded heat shield, a larger air-to-air intercooler and a freer-flowing exhaust system. The engine was factory-rated at 276 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque. Recent service includes a replacement mass airflow sensor and spark plugs in 2021, followed by a new fuel tank, pump and injectors in 2022.
Power is delivered to the rear wheels through a four-speed Turbo-Hydramatic 200R4 automatic transmission paired with a limited-slip differential and a GNX-specific aluminum rear cover. Documentation accompanying the sale includes the window sticker, original literature, service records, sales paperwork and a GNX-branded jacket. The Carfax report shows no accidents or damage.
With several days left before the auction closes, the car’s originality, low mileage and single-owner history are contributing to strong early bidding, signaling continued demand for one of Buick’s most celebrated performance icons.
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