USA vs USA — 1976 vs 1987
| Regal Grand National | Regal GNX | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 245 hp | 276 hp |
| Torque | 355 lb-ft | 360 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 3,791 cc | 3,791 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.5 sec | 4.7 sec |
| Top Speed | 125 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.9 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Weight | 3,476 lbs | 3,640 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,743 mm | 2,769 mm |
| Length | 5,067 mm | 5,023 mm |
| Units Produced | 20,193 | 547 |
| Original MSRP | $16,608 | $29,290 |
| Value (Excellent) | $75,000 | $275,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 10/10 |
The 1987 Buick Regal GNX emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, greater rarity. The 1976 Buick Regal Grand National counters with higher top speed, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Tracing the evolution of the Buick Regal from 1976 to 1987 offers a compelling look at how automotive design and engineering progressed. These two variants showcase the changing face of Buick. The 1987 Buick Regal GNX holds a clear advantage in raw power with 276 hp compared to 245 hp, a 31-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Buick Regal uses a V6 Turbocharged displacing 3,791 cc, while the Buick Regal relies on a V6 Turbo with 3,791 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1987 Buick Regal GNX edges ahead at 4.7 seconds versus 5.5 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 547 units built, the 1987 Buick Regal GNX is considerably scarcer than the Buick Regal's 20,193 examples. On the collector market, the 1987 Buick Regal GNX commands a significant premium over the 1976 Buick Regal Grand National, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.