For the final year, 1987, Buick
introduced the GNX. Produced by McLaren Performance Technologies/ASC,
Buick underrated the GNX at 276 hp (206 kW) and a very substantial 360 lb·ft
(488 N·m) of torque. This was created to be the "Grand National to end
all Grand Nationals." Changes made included a special Garrett
turbocharger with a ceramic-impeller blowing
through a more efficient intercooler and a "CERMATEL (Ceramic/Aluminum)
coated" pipe connecting the intercooler to the engine. A GNX specific
EEPROM, low-restriction exhaust with dual mufflers, reprogrammed Turbo
Hydramatic 200-4R transmission with a custom torque converter and
transmission cooler, and unique differential cover/panhard bar included
more of the performance modifications. Exterior styling changes include
vents located on each front fender, 16 inch black mesh style wheels with
VR-speed rated tires, and deletion of the hood and fender emblems. The
interior changes of the GNX included a serial number on the dash plaque
and a revised instrument cluster providing analog Stewart-Warner gauges,
including an analog turbo boost gauge. GNX #001 is the 1986 prototype
currently owned by Buick and sometimes makes appearances at car shows
around the US. The GNX had a ladder bar that ran from the mid-section of
the car to the rear axle, so as to increase traction. This is also the
reason why a GNX will actually lift the rear end up when the car is
about to launch heavily.
03292011
|