The rumors are true! Someone did put a modified Buick Regal GNX motor in a Lotus Esprit and here it is! If you know anything about the 1987 Buick Regal GNX, then you just begin to understand what kind of power and reliability this exotic car has.

Start with a stock 3460 lb. 1987 Buick GNX with an automatic transmission running 0-60 in 4.7 seconds and the ¼ mile in 13.5 seconds (verified at howstuffworks.com) and delete everything but the motor. Then add many performance upgrades, a 5 speed upgraded manual transmission, and put it in a 2500 lb. exotic car (documented curb weight with the GNX motor). When you mash the accelerator, you either spill out uncontrollable expletives or think of the movie “Gladiator” just after Russell Crowe commands, “UNLEASH HELL”.

This is a low-mid 11-second ¼-mile rocket only limited by your level of fear and driving skill. Also thrilling is getting waves of admiration and thumbs up from other drivers. In addition to mind-blowing power and looks, another benefit of this car and its very light weight is the fuel-injected motor exceeds an average of 24 MPG when driven with respect. For the truly insane, only $1200 in modern performance Buick parts would add another 110 HP…

This car is a one of a kind work of art that absolutely embarrasses other Turbo Esprits from the period and costs substantially less to maintain. Everything works, right down to the clock, and not one component appears aged. Masterfully redone in 1987 and every detail both cosmetic and mechanical addressed, this vehicle is in exceptional condition.

The prior (original) owner spent over $75K in upgrades, with me adding more than $9K of my own. Professionally built and tuned by Buick racing legend Ken Duttweiler, the motor is stout to say the least. I have tons of receipts, the car’s registration was just renewed, and it is smogged and ready to go. There is a ton to list so I will break it down by category and try not to miss anything: