If you’re looking for a car that feels like it skipped the last three decades, the 1987 Buick GNX #438 might be the closest thing. With just 1,300 miles on the odometer, this black-on-black bruiser hasn’t seen much road, but it still carries the weight of a performance legacy. The 1987 Buick GNX #438 is one of only 547 built, and it’s been tucked away long enough to feel like it just rolled off the line.
GNX #438 and the End of an Era
Buick didn’t build the GNX to be subtle. It was a sendoff, a final punch before the Grand National bowed out. McLaren Performance Technologies and ASC helped shape the GNX into something sharper. Every car came in black, with heat-extracting fender vents, composite flares, and a three-piece spoiler. GNX badging and dual exhausts added to the aggression.
Suspension and Braking Upgrades
The GNX didn’t just look mean, it handled better than its siblings. Buick borrowed front suspension parts from the Grand National, but the rear setup got serious upgrades. A Panhard rod, torque arm, and extra frame cross member helped keep things planted. Braking came from power-assisted front discs and rear drums.
Interior Details of GNX #438
Inside, GNX #438 sticks to the original formula. Black and Sand Gray cloth covers the bucket seats and rear bench. Turbo 6 embroidery marks the headrests. A plaque on the dash confirms this is car #438. You’ll find a Delco stereo, air conditioning, cruise control, and power windows. It’s all there, untouched and intact.
GNX-Specific Gauges and Steering
The steering wheel is leather-wrapped and fronts a set of Stewart-Warner gauges. These include a 160-mph speedometer, 8k-rpm tachometer, and readouts for boost, oil pressure, coolant temp, and fuel. The odometer reads 1,300 miles, and it’s hard to imagine many more being added.
Powertrain and Performance Specs
Under the hood, the GNX packs a turbocharged 3.8-liter V6. McLaren and ASC added a Garrett T3 turbo, a larger intercooler, and a low-restriction exhaust. The result? 276 horsepower and 360 lb-ft of torque. Power goes to the rear wheels through a Turbo-Hydramatic 200R4 four-speed automatic with a factory oil cooler and limited-slip differential.
Summary
GNX #438 isn’t just low-mileage, it’s a preserved piece of Buick’s performance history. With its McLaren-tuned V6, aggressive styling, and rare build number, it stands apart. Whether it stays parked or hits the road again, it’s ready either way.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The information provided is based on market trends and personal opinions and should not be considered financial or investment advice. Readers should always conduct their own research and consult with a professional advisor before making any decisions.
Source & Details: bringatrailer.com
