Preview sketch of SLP Performance's modern-day GNX

Preview sketch of SLP Performance's modern-day GNX

Buick’s ‘Grand National to end all Grand Nationals’, the semi-legendary GNX of 1987 is set to see a revival, though the latest version will be common in name only.

In fact, the latest GNX won’t even be built by Buick.

That’s because the guys at SLP Performance have acquired the rights for the GNX nameplate, and they plan to use it for a modern iteration based on the latest-generation Buick Regal.

Built for one year only back in 1987, the GNX was based on the Buick Grand National, which itself was based on the Buick Regal of the time.

It was GM’s fastest sedan at the time and came with a 3.8-liter V-6 turbocharged to the tune of 276 horsepower and 360 pound-feet of torque, though these numbers are widely accepted to have been underrated. Sadly--or perhaps thankfully--only 547 examples were made, with many of them now long gone.

SLP Performance’s modern version, previewed here in this official sketch picked up by Inside Line, shows an aggressive series of modifications for the GNX's transformation from Regal GS. Those aggressive lines will be matched by an output exceeding 300 horsepower, which should offer a decent performance jump over the 270-horsepower Regal GS.

The project is still in the design phase, though SLP Performance is currently taking orders for its GNX. Like the original, only around 500 examples are expected so interested buyers best act fast.