Collectors are again showing a willingness to pay top dollar for cars that look as fresh as the day they rolled off the assembly line. In a recent Bring A Trailer auction, a 1987 Buick GNX—only 30 miles on the odometer—settled for $427,000, more than double the $200,000 price it fetched in July 2024.
Under the hood sits a 3.8‑liter turbocharged V6 that delivers 276 horsepower and 360 lb‑ft of torque, thanks to a Garrett T3 turbo, a larger intercooler, and a low‑resistance exhaust. The power is sent to the rear wheels through a 200R4 automatic with an upgraded oil cooler, and a limited‑slip differential keeps traction on slippery city streets. The chassis is tweaked with a Panhard rod, torque arm, and an extra cross‑member, while 16‑inch cross‑lace wheels and a distinctive three‑piece rear spoiler give it a lean look.
In the same era, the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 and Ford Mustang GT500 offered similar horsepower, but the GNX’s limited production of 547 units and its all‑black styling make it a rarity that commands a premium. While the Camaro’s 6.2‑liter V8 produced 430 horsepower, the GNX’s 3.8‑liter turbo packs a punch that feels surprisingly modern for a car built in 1987.
The jump from $200,000 to $427,000 in just two years underscores how the provenance and mileage of a car can drive its value. A pristine example can command nearly double its previous sale price, hinting at a robust market for low‑mileage, factory‑trim vehicles in the high‑end collector segment.
The car is currently in Texas, where a dealer has acquired it for the marketplace. For buyers looking to add a true 1980s icon to their collection, the next step is to monitor auction sites and dealer inventories; the GNX’s rarity means that a well‑maintained example is likely to surface only when a private owner decides to part with it.