Some people will sit down to watch the same movie or read the same book repeatedly simply because they like it. That is how I feel about the 1987 Buick Grand National. I acknowledge that the GNX was a more potent package, but the Grand National has an indefinable quality that draws me like a magnet. This one is a beauty, and apart from its unmolested state, the documented odometer reading of 55,000 original miles may make it irresistible to some. It is ready for a new home, with the seller listing the Buick here on eBay in Warren, Rhode Island. The bidding has soared past the reserve to sit at $31,400.

We see no shortage of ’87 Grand Nationals at Barn Finds, which is understandable considering their growing desirability. They generally fall into two categories. Some are beautifully preserved trailer queens that rarely see active service, while others have been driven hard and fast, beset by the rust issues that often plague these classics. This Buick comfortably walks the middle ground. Its odometer reading is relatively low for its age, but it is a rock-solid classic with no evidence of abuse or neglect. The Black paint retains the shine for which these cars are renowned, with no signs of significant paint or panel imperfections. The seller supplies some clear underside shots, confirming this Grand National is as rust-free as the day it rolled off the line. The exterior plastic hasn’t succumbed to UV exposure, and the distinctive chrome wheels, a defining feature of the exterior, are in as-new condition.

Rust problems aren’t the only issues to plague Grand Nationals because interior trim and plastic are prone to wear and deterioration. The seller confirms this Buick received a partial retrim, and it seems the carpet is the only remaining major original component. The distinctive Gray and Black upholstered surfaces are spotless, the dash and pad are excellent, and the only flaw worth noting is the typical deterioration of the console lid. However, with replacements retailing for around $60, addressing this shortcoming is affordable. It appears this interior may feature an upgraded stereo, but that seems to be the only aftermarket addition. The winning bidder can climb aboard a classic fitted with air conditioning, power windows, power locks, cruise control, and a leather-wrapped tilt wheel.

There has long been debate about when The Malaise Era ended. While a single vehicle can’t lay claim to the honor of being the turning point, the 1987 Grand National demonstrated that Detroit was looking at alternatives to recapture muscle car performance that had disappeared over a decade ago. Buick decided that such cars didn’t necessarily require a V8 under the hood to pin occupants in their seats. With turbocharger, fuel injection, and electronic engine management technology emerging strongly in motorsport, the company brought those features to the fore on the Grand National. Its 3.8-liter V6 benefited from internal upgrades, lashings of the previously mentioned features, and an intercooler to churn out an “official” 245hp. Many people believe the actual figure is considerably higher. With that power feeding to the rear wheels via a four-speed THM200-4R automatic transmission, the journey down the ¼-mile took what the factory claimed to be 14.7 seconds. However, contemporary road tests consistently returned sub-14-second passes, confirming that Detroit was rediscovering its performance mojo. This Grand National will attract potential buyers because of its mechanical originality and odometer reading. The car has a genuine 55,000 miles on the clock, which is documented by comprehensive Service Records confirming this beauty has been maintained with little cost consideration. It runs and drives perfectly, ready to provide the winning bidder with classic motoring pleasure.

The Buick Grand National ushered in a new era of muscle car performance, and it is unsurprising it remains one of the most desirable cars to emerge from an American factory during the 1980s. This one is a beauty, and if I find anything surprising, it is the fact it has only attracted nine bids. However, with the reserve met, some enthusiasts might loosen the purse strings, knowing it is days away from finding a new home. Therefore, I believe the action will intensify during the closing hours. Would you consider joining the party, and what do you feel a fair price would be?