Rare 1987 Buick Grand National with Only 77 Miles Goes Up for Sale
A 1987 Buick Grand National, showcasing an astonishingly low mileage of merely 77 miles and retaining its factory window sticker, has emerged for sale. This exceptional find represents a perfectly preserved artifact of automotive history, having remained in careful storage for over thirty years. Its immaculate condition is a testament to its sheltered past, hinting at a significant sale price that could reach into the six-figure range, underscoring both its rarity and the specialized maintenance such a dormant vehicle might require.
This particular 1987 Buick Grand National stands out due to its minimal odometer reading, making it one of the lowest-mileage examples ever offered. Discovered after spending more than three decades in a dormant state, the vehicle's pristine exterior suggests it was meticulously kept away from environmental damage throughout its long period of inactivity. This level of preservation is exceedingly rare, especially for a car of its vintage.
The car's provenance adds to its allure: originally sold by Hewitt Motors in Richwood, West Virginia, it was only recently brought into the possession of its current owner in 2021. The presence of the original window sticker further authenticates its untouched status, positioning it as a significant collector's item. Such unique characteristics contribute to the car's escalating value in the collector's market.
While the aesthetic appeal of a vehicle with such low mileage is undeniable, the long-term storage introduces a unique set of challenges. Vehicles, much like any complex machinery, are designed for regular operation. Extended periods of inactivity can lead to the degradation of various components, including belts, bushings, and suspension parts, irrespective of the miles driven. Therefore, despite its showroom-fresh appearance, this Grand National will likely require a thorough inspection and potential replacement of age-affected parts to ensure roadworthiness.
The current bidding, already at $77,000, significantly surpasses the typical market value for these models, which usually ranges between $30,000 and $50,000. With only a day remaining in the auction, experts anticipate a surge in bids, pushing the final sale price well over $100,000. This outcome is a clear indicator of the intense competition among collectors for vehicles of this caliber and condition.
It is widely anticipated that this Grand National will continue its life as a static display rather than a daily driver. Such an acquisition is often driven by the desire to preserve automotive heritage, making it a prime candidate for either a prominent automotive museum or a distinguished private collection, ensuring its status as a cherished, non-operational showpiece for years to come.
The sale of this almost-new classic Buick Grand National underscores the fascinating dichotomy within the collector car market: the immense value placed on originality and minimal use versus the inherent issues that arise from vehicles remaining static for decades. This specific example, with its history of prolonged storage and minimal use, represents a unique opportunity for serious collectors seeking a nearly factory-fresh piece of automotive Americana, albeit one that may require careful recommissioning to ever be driven.