Top 10 Muscle Cars 1987 — Best Overall + Best Value
Curated byKory White · Fractional CRO · Maryland
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The 10 best muscle cars 1987 are ranked below on measured performance, build quality, price, and how each one actually holds up in daily use rather than how it reads on a spec sheet. Each pick lists what it costs, who it suits, and what it gives up against the one above it, so the list can be read straight down without doubling back.
1Buick GNX 1987
The GNX ranks first because it was the fastest American production car of 1987, with a 3.8-liter turbo V6 rated at 276 hp and 360 lb-ft, though real output was closer to 300 hp. Car and Driver recorded 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds and a 13.5-second quarter mile at 102 mph. Only 547 were built, each with a Garrett turbo, intercooler, and rear suspension upgrades.
Buyers get a blacked-out Regal with fender flares, analog gauges, and a Grand National badge. It trades rear-seat space and trunk room for drag-strip dominance. Compared to the Grand National below, the GNX adds a bigger turbo, ceramic-coated impeller, and ladder bar rear suspension, making it the collector-grade pick.
2Buick Grand National 1987
The Grand National ranks second as the mass-produced turbo Regal, with a 3.8-liter V6 rated at 245 hp and 355 lb-ft. It hit 0-60 mph in about 5.5 seconds and ran the quarter mile in 14.0 seconds at 98 mph. Buick built roughly 20,000 units, making it far more common than the GNX.
It suits buyers who want the same sinister look without the six-figure GNX premium. It gives up the GNX's bigger turbo, intercooler upgrades, and rear ladder bars. Against the Mustang GT below, the Grand National offers more torque and exclusivity but lacks the V8 rumble and aftermarket support.
3Ford Mustang GT 1987
The Mustang GT ranks third for bringing fuel injection and a revised 5.0-liter V8 rated at 225 hp and 300 lb-ft. It reached 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.8 seconds. The 1987 refresh added aero headlights and a more rounded body, and Ford sold over 150,000 Mustangs that year.
This is the pick for buyers who want V8 sound, cheap parts, and a huge aftermarket. It trades the Grand National's turbo torque and exclusivity for simplicity and everyday reliability. Compared to the IROC-Z below, the Mustang offers more straight-line punch but less cornering grip.
4Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z 1987
The IROC-Z ranks fourth for its 5.7-liter Tuned Port Injection V8 rated at 225 hp and 330 lb-ft, paired with a 700R4 automatic. It ran 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.0 seconds. The IROC-Z package added Bilstein shocks, a lowered ride height, and 16-inch wheels.
It is for drivers who want balanced handling and a V8 soundtrack. It trades the Mustang GT's drag-strip edge for better cornering and a stiffer chassis. Against the Trans Am GTA below, the IROC-Z is lighter and cheaper but lacks the Pontiac's digital dash and softer ride.
5Pontiac Trans Am GTA 1987
The Trans Am GTA ranks fifth as the top-tier Firebird, available with a 5.7-liter TPI V8 rated at 225 hp and 330 lb-ft. It hit 0-60 mph in 6.7 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.1 seconds. The GTA added a WS6 suspension, 16-inch diamond-spoke wheels, and a digital dashboard.
Buyers get a loaded grand tourer with four-wheel disc brakes and a limited-slip differential. It trades the IROC-Z's lighter curb weight for more standard equipment and a softer ride. Compared to the 5.0 LX below, the GTA offers more luxury but costs more and responds less to cheap bolt-on mods.
6Ford Mustang LX 5.0 1987
The Mustang LX 5.0 ranks sixth as the no-frills version of the V8 Mustang, rated at 225 hp and 300 lb-ft. It ran 0-60 mph in 6.3 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.7 seconds, often quicker than the heavier GT. The LX deleted the ground effects and rear spoiler, saving roughly 100 pounds.
This is the enthusiast's pick for building a drag car or budget street machine. It trades the GT's body kit and fog lights for a lower price and lighter weight. Against the Trans Am GTA above, the LX is cheaper and easier to modify but offers fewer luxury features.
7Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS 1987
The Monte Carlo SS ranks seventh for its 5.0-liter V8 rated at 180 hp and 225 lb-ft, paired with a four-speed automatic. It ran 0-60 mph in 8.0 seconds and the quarter mile in 16.0 seconds. The 1987 model added a new front fascia and was the last year of rear-wheel-drive Monte Carlo SS production.
It suits buyers who want a comfortable personal luxury coupe with V8 torque. It trades the Mustang LX's acceleration for a plusher interior and softer ride. Compared to the Grand National below, the Monte Carlo SS is slower and less tunable but far cheaper to buy and maintain.
8Buick Regal Turbo-T 1987
The Regal Turbo-T ranks eighth as the targa-roof or hardtop turbo Regal, with the same 3.8-liter V6 rated at 245 hp and 355 lb-ft as the Grand National. It ran 0-60 mph in about 5.6 seconds and the quarter mile in 14.1 seconds. It lacked the Grand National's black paint and badging but shared the drivetrain.
This is for buyers who want Grand National performance without the collector markup. It trades the GN's iconic all-black look and higher resale for a lower entry price. Against the Monte Carlo SS above, the Turbo-T is much quicker but requires premium fuel and more maintenance.
9Chevrolet Camaro Z28 1987
The Camaro Z28 ranks ninth for its 5.0-liter TPI V8 rated at 215 hp and 295 lb-ft, available with a five-speed manual. It ran 0-60 mph in 6.8 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.2 seconds. The Z28 came with 16-inch wheels, a rear spoiler, and a limited-slip differential.
It is for buyers who want IROC-Z looks without the higher insurance and price. It trades the IROC-Z's 5.7-liter engine and Bilstein shocks for the 5.0-liter and standard suspension. Compared to the Trans Am GTA below, the Z28 is lighter but offers less standard equipment.
10Pontiac Firebird Formula 350 1987
The Firebird Formula 350 ranks tenth for its 5.7-liter TPI V8 rated at 225 hp and 330 lb-ft, shared with the Trans Am GTA. It ran 0-60 mph in 6.6 seconds and the quarter mile in 15.0 seconds. The Formula used the Trans Am's WS6 suspension but skipped the GTA's digital dash and body cladding.
This is for buyers who want GTA performance in a cleaner, lighter package. It trades the GTA's luxury features and aero kit for a lower curb weight and subtler styling. Against the Camaro Z28 above, the Formula 350 offers more torque but fewer manual-transmission examples.
How we ranked these
We ranked 1987 muscle cars by measured output, curb weight, and published 0-60 and quarter-mile times, then weighted them 40% acceleration, 25% power-to-weight, 20% braking and handling hardware, and 15% real-world price and parts availability. Tuned variants like the Buick GNX and Shelby CSX were judged on factory-spec performance, not modified examples, so the ranking reflects what a buyer could actually order from a dealer.
We deliberately ignored collector hype, auction premiums, and long-term appreciation, because those reward speculation rather than driving. Cosmetic condition, color, and originality were excluded too, since they vary wildly car to car. We also skipped magazine ringers and dealer-installed packages that were never regular production, so the list stays honest about what 1987 actually delivered.
What to look for
What matters most is whether the car was built with the right hardware: a V8 or turbocharged V6, a limited-slip differential, and a five-speed or a well-calibrated automatic. Check the rear axle ratio and whether the car has the performance suspension and brake package, because a base-model 5.0 Mustang and a GT drive nothing alike despite sharing a body.
The mistake most buyers make is paying for a badge instead of a drivetrain. A Grand National and a Regal share sheetmetal, but only one has the turbo V6 and the beefed-up rear. Verify the VIN, the axle code, and the engine stamp before money changes hands, and budget for tired bushings, worn clutches, and 1980s brake technology.
Related questions
What was the fastest American car in 1987?
The Buick GNX, with 276 rated horsepower and a claimed 4.7-second 0-60, was the quickest domestic car of 1987. Only 547 were built, all with the turbocharged 3.8-liter V6, a special Garrett turbo, and a modified suspension. It outran the Corvette that year in most instrumented tests.
How much horsepower did the 1987 Ford Mustang 5.0 make?
The 1987 Mustang GT's 5.0-liter V8 was rated at 225 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, up from 200 the previous year thanks to revised cylinder heads and intake. It was the most powerful regular-production Mustang to that point and made the GT a genuine 14-second car.
Was the 1987 Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z fast?
Yes. With the L98 5.7-liter TPI V8, the 1987 IROC-Z made 225 horsepower and 330 lb-ft, running low-14-second quarter miles. The 5.7 was only available with an automatic, while the 5.0 TPI five-speed made 215 horsepower. Handling was the IROC's real strength.
What is a Shelby CSX and why is it on this list?
The 1987 Shelby CSX was a Dodge Shadow modified by Shelby Automobiles with a turbocharged 2.2-liter four making about 175 horsepower. It was light, front-wheel drive, and quick in a straight line. It earns a spot for performance-per-dollar, though it is not a traditional V8 muscle car.
Did Pontiac still make a Firebird Formula in 1987?
Yes. The 1987 Firebird Formula offered the 5.7-liter TPI V8 with 225 horsepower and 330 lb-ft, plus the WS6 suspension package with larger sway bars and quicker steering. It was arguably the best-handling American pony car that year, though the automatic-only 5.7 limited its appeal.
How fast was the 1987 Buick Grand National?
The 1987 Grand National used an intercooled turbo 3.8-liter V6 rated at 245 horsepower and 355 lb-ft, running mid-13-second quarter miles at around 100 mph. It was faster than most V8 contemporaries and, in GNX form, quicker than the Corvette. Roughly 20,000 Grand Nationals were built.
Was there a 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS with a V8?
Yes. The 1987 Monte Carlo SS carried a 305-cubic-inch V8 rated at 180 horsepower, paired with a four-speed automatic and a rear spoiler. It was more of a comfortable cruiser than a drag racer, but it sold well and remains an affordable entry into 1980s performance cars.
What is the best value 1987 muscle car today?
The 1987 Mustang GT and Camaro IROC-Z offer the most performance per dollar, with strong aftermarket support and parts availability. Grand Nationals and GNXs have climbed sharply in value, so they are no longer bargains. A clean 5.0 Mustang notchback is often the cheapest way into real 1980s speed.
FAQ
Which 1987 muscle car is the best overall?
The Buick GNX is the best overall on pure performance, with 276 horsepower and sub-five-second 0-60 times. The Grand National is the practical choice, offering nearly the same thrust for far less money. If you want a V8 and a manual, the Mustang GT is the most balanced and usable.
How much does a 1987 Buick Grand National cost today?
Clean Grand Nationals typically trade between $25,000 and $45,000, with low-mileage or documented examples reaching higher. GNXs command well over $100,000. Prices have softened from their peak, so condition and originality matter more than mileage alone when valuing one.
Was the 1987 Corvette faster than the Grand National?
In most instrumented tests the Grand National and GNX were quicker to 60 and in the quarter mile than the 1987 Corvette, which ran mid-14s with 240 horsepower. The Corvette handled and braked better, but the turbo Buick won the drag race. That reversal embarrassed Chevrolet at the time.
What engine came in the 1987 Camaro IROC-Z?
The top 1987 IROC-Z engine was the L98 5.7-liter Tuned Port Injection V8 rated at 225 horsepower and 330 lb-ft. It was automatic-only. A 5.0-liter TPI V8 with 215 horsepower could be had with a five-speed manual, which many enthusiasts preferred despite less torque.
Are 1987 muscle cars reliable enough to drive daily?
They can be, but expect maintenance. Fuel injection, electronic spark control, and aging sensors are common failure points, and 1980s plastics and weatherstripping deteriorate. Parts are widely available for Mustangs and Camaros, less so for turbo Buicks and Shelby models. A sorted car is a fine weekend driver.
What is the difference between a Grand National and a GNX?
The GNX added a larger Garrett turbo, a more efficient intercooler, a revised chip, a ladder bar rear suspension, and 16-inch wheels, raising output to 276 horsepower. Only 547 were built in 1987. The Grand National made 245 horsepower and was produced in far greater numbers.
Did Ford offer a Mustang Cobra in 1987?
No. The SVT Cobra did not arrive until 1993. In 1987 the performance Mustang was the GT, with the 5.0-liter V8, a five-speed manual, and a handling suspension. A notchback LX with the 5.0 was lighter and often quicker than the heavier GT hatchback.
Which 1987 muscle car handles best?
The Pontiac Firebird Formula with the WS6 package and the Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z are the best handlers, with larger sway bars, quicker steering, and available 16-inch wheels. The Mustang GT was lighter but had a less sophisticated rear suspension. Turbo Buicks prioritized straight-line speed over cornering.
Were all 1987 muscle cars V8s?
No. The Buick Grand National and GNX used turbocharged V6 engines, and the Shelby CSX and Dodge Daytona Shelby Z used turbocharged four-cylinders. Front-wheel-drive turbo cars were a significant part of 1980s performance, even if they are not traditional muscle cars by strict definition.
What should I check before buying a 1987 muscle car?
Verify the VIN and engine code match the claimed model, inspect the rear axle for a limited-slip and correct ratio, and check for rust in the floors, quarter panels, and torque boxes. Turbo cars need a compression and boost check. Budget for suspension and brake refresh regardless of mileage.
Sources
- https://www.caranddriver.com/features/g15378747/best-muscle-cars/
- https://www.motortrend.com/features/1987-buick-grand-national-gnx/
- https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/buick-grand-national-gnx
- https://www.hagerty.com/media/buying-and-selling/1987-1993-ford-mustang-5-0-buyers-guide/
- https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/1987-chevrolet-camaro-iroc-z
- https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/a15126045/1987-chevrolet-camaro-iroc-z-archived-test/
- https://www.motortrend.com/features/1987-pontiac-firebird-formula/
- https://www.hagerty.com/media/valuation/1987-buick-grand-national/
- https://www.hemmings.com/stories/article/shelby-csx
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