I have been lusting for a Grand National for a long time (since I was 10) but they are a little too small for me (I'm a big car guy). However, my 1984 Olds 98 Regency Coupe is not. I have no intentions of building just another 350 Chevy powered rod. I want to do something different. I think that a Grand National's turbocharged V6 driveline in my Olds would be a great way to get it into the 13's and get over 25 M.P.G. on the highway, especially since I am a six cylinder fan anyway. I intend to install Impala SS suspension components from Eibach, and a set of 16 inch (no "dubs" here!) Torque Thrust II wheels and lower the car 1 inch in front, half an inch out back, and just clean up the trim a bit, and black out the grille and headlight surrounds. A 4 wheel disc brake conversion, as well as a 3.55:1 ratio in the rear end,with Posi-Traction, should make this a classy looking custom that can move and shake with the best of them. BTW, my Olds is 3,800 lbs, which compares favorably to the 3,500 lbs of a loaded Grand National. I always loved those cars, but I also always loved the 98's. So why not combine the power and speed (and efficiency) of the GN with the luxury, style, and ride of the 98? I was wondering about where I could go to find a complete driveline for one, as well as what mods need to be done to get the engine over 325 H.P.? Could a PFI 3.8 or a 3800 V6 be used as a foundation, or must it have started life as a Grand National engine? Thanks guys, your site comes highly recommended by my friends at Ford Truck Enthusiast Forums. Dave

The Turbo-6 would be a very cool motor to go in there. If you seriously plan on turbocharging the motor, you are best off with a turbo block. There are differences between blocks, and you should stick to a block that came with a turbo,

You will also want to think about what you will use for an ECM- this would be a good chance to go for an aftermarket like a FAST (which is what I use). The ECM from the 98 won't be up to the task.

I think you'll have some work ahead of you, but you will wind up with a great result!

Be sure to get a transmission that is up to the task.

-Bob C.

I figured on getting a factory ECU and wiring harness with the powertrain. I also figured on using a gas tank from a 91 9C1 (police package) Caprice, which is set up for fuel injection and holds 27 gallons. With a fuelpump for a later model LT-1. Phase 1 is to get it all together in factory stock trim to make sure everything is at 100%. Then I'd start modding. One thing is for sure, I want to make it look sanitary, like the factory offered it as an option. I have even kicked around the idea of getting the Chrome steel Grand National wheels and modding them with an Olds insignia (the Rocket,not the Aurora)overlaid with the Buick Turbo 6 insignia on the center caps. I have a friend who works at a vinyl graphics company who might be able to knock a few off. Planning is easy, juggling bills and the mortgage and food and paying for the goods is a whole other bargain. I don't intend to start the project untill I have absolutely everything needed to do it from the start. But I feel that planning thouroughly and having a clear cut goal is the way to move smoothly along with any major project. Now Ineed to finance it. Can't wait to be all finished and put those little Turbo 3.8L SEFI badges on either side of the hood (They won't go on untill all objectives are met).