Grand National, T-Type and GNX Models Are Returning to Buick

Edmunds Inside Line is reporting that Buick is planning to revive the Grand National, the T-Type and the GNX models in the near future. These three models were popular in the 1980s.

The Grand National debuted in 1982 as an appearance package on the Buick Regal. It was named after NASCAR’s Grand National Series. Buick was successful in the series in 1981 and 1982, winning the Manufacturer’s Cup in both years. General Motors retrofitted 215 Regal’s with the special trim package.

In 1983, there was no Grand National package; however, the Regal Sport Coupe model was named the T-Type because it was equipped with a turbocharger.

The Grand National returned in 1984 as an all-black appearance package on the T-Type Regal. In 1987, Buick introduced the GNX, which was an ASC/McLaren-modified Grand National. The GNX was the leading performance car of all American manufacturers that year.

Full details of the revamped models have not yet been released, but the T-Type will be offered in a full color palette, while the GNX and Grand National are said to be available in black. All three models are expected to be sedans, on rear-wheel-drive Alpha platform used first used in the Cadillac ATS Sedan.

T-Types and Grand Nationals will reportedly be equipped with a twin-turbo, 3.6 liter V6 engine producing near 400 horsepower. The GNX is rumored to include GM’s newest V8, the LT1. All three models should be available in six-speed automatic and standard six-speed manual transmissions.

Today the original Grand National, T-Type and GNX Buicks are highly-collected cars and can command a premium price on the market. The return of these models will be a refreshing change to the current Buick lineup, but it will be at least another year before GM will either confirm or deny the rumors. Look for additional details at future auto shows.