Sure, you could’ve had a V8, but do you really need one?
The Ringbrothers custom car shop has revealed a 1987 Buick Grand National at the SEMA Show in Las Vegas that makes the iconic 80s muscle car grander than ever.
The black coupe nicknamed INVADR has been equipped with a twin-turbocharged version of the Grand National’s 3.8-liter V6 that’s been cranked up to produce 1,246 hp at 32 psi when running on E85 fuel.
But the engine, which was built by Duttweiller Performance, can be turned up to 50 psi to increase the power to 2,000 hp for racing.
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That’s a fair bit more than the stock Grand National’s 245 hp, which was a lot in its day. The new motor features six-bolt mins, ported cylinder heads, a unique manifold and a billet crankshaft that can handle its outrageous output.
Power is sent to the rear HRE wheels through a Bowler Tremec T-56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission, which replaces the car’s original 4-speed automatic, and carbon-fiber drag racing drive shaft. Ringbrothers didn’t say exactly how quick it is, but left no doubt that it is a monster.
“The acceleration of this car is nothing short of violent. This may well be the fastest car we’ve built to date,” co-owner Mike Ring said.
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The chassis has been updated with a Roadster Shop chassis that has a four-link rear suspension, while each corner gets a Penske three-way adjustable shock. Braking is managed by Brembo six-piston brakes that squeeze carbon-ceramic rotors.
A racing-style air jack system that can lift the car 15.1 inches has also been integrated and works off of nitrogen tanks mounted in the trunk.
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Ringbrothers maintained the look of the vehicle with only slight modifications that include stainless steel bumpers with aluminum guards and fenders reshaped to blend into them. The rocker panels were also extended and a carbon fiber hood scoop added.
The interior stays similarly old-school, but has been enhanced with new custom seats and trim plus digital instruments with a retro look.
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Ringbrothers said the car took 5,000 hours to build. A price wasn’t mentioned, but you can expect it is well into the six-figures. You’ll have to call them up to inquire about buying it or something like it if you want to know for sure.