G-Body Project Car Hell Part 2: Grand National Time

Derek Kreindler
by Derek Kreindler

After Joey and I sat down and tallied up all of the costs of our proposed Monte Carlo G-Body project; crate motor, upgraded cooling system, differential, engine accessories, transmission not to mention bodywork, interior refurbishing, brakes, suspension and all the other fun expensive stuff, we decided to abandon the project. Instead, Joey’s getting a Grand National.

Murilee himself advised that a GN might be the most cost-effective way to big power. The project in mind is to have a cool street car that looks and sounds good while still going fast. Most Monte Carlos are oxidized junk around these parts. Grand Nationals, on the other hand, are well cared for, and the $10,000 asking price for even a somewhat tired one is much more appealing than paying a couple thousand for a regular G-Body and then having to perform tons of work to bring it up to decent condition. A GN, while more expensive at the outset, is much more cost-effective in the long run, since we’re starting with a well-cared-for and capable car from the outset.

Anyone with turbo Buick experience is welcome to chime in with comments, suggestions, things to avoid and look out for. Ideally, I’d like to know what would be a good compromise between power and everyday driveability. The GN should be able to cruise on weekends for a few hours, but stock power levels won’t be adequate. At the same time, going with something severe like standalone engine management is too extreme. Any turbo upgrades would ideally improve throttle response and do away with the old school turbochargers. Coming from an import background, my knowledge of Turbo Buicks is weak. A rough goal would to eclipse the power of a stock GNX. Any good upgrades to the brakes, suspension, cooling system and any other important areas are also welcome. Joey and I will be going to look at Grand Nationals (hopefully by the time you’re reading this) and we’ll keep the B&B updated on the project. In the mean time, your collective wisdom and guidance is called upon!

Derek Kreindler
Derek Kreindler

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  • Flipper35 Flipper35 on Mar 26, 2012

    I would grab a well cared for '87 T-Type. Sleeper looks and you can get the additional performance out of them the same as a GN. Head gaskets would be something to watch out for on these.

  • GS650G GS650G on May 10, 2012

    Get a fox mustang and go with a 351 and be done with it.

  • Joe This is called a man in the middle attack and has been around for years. You can fall for this in a Starbucks as easily as when you’re charging your car. Nothing new here…
  • AZFelix Hilux technical, preferably with a swivel mount.
  • ToolGuy This is the kind of thing you get when you give people faster internet.
  • ToolGuy North America is already the greatest country on the planet, and I have learned to be careful about what I wish for in terms of making changes. I mean, if Greenland wants to buy JDM vehicles, isn't that for the Danes to decide?
  • ToolGuy Once again my home did not catch on fire and my fire extinguisher(s) stayed in the closet, unused. I guess I threw my money away on fire extinguishers.(And by fire extinguishers I mean nuclear missiles.)
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