Top 5 Buick Engines by Power, Ranked

When it comes to Buick, the name often brings to mind images of comfort and luxury rather than high-performance vehicles. However, there are a few hidden gems in Buick's history that defy this perception. These cars, though not always the most well-known, boast impressive power figures that might surprise even seasoned enthusiasts.

Before diving into the list, it's important to note a couple of key points. First, this article will only focus on combustion engine-powered production cars. While Buick has experimented with concept cars, homologation specials, and electric vehicles, these will be excluded due to their experimental nature or speculative performance metrics. Additionally, we'll consider the highest horsepower ratings for each engine, as many of these powertrains were used across various models with different tuning levels.

Another crucial point is the distinction between SAE net and gross horsepower. Prior to 1971, American vehicles used gross horsepower, which measured an engine's output without considering accessories or transmission losses. From 1972 onward, SAE net horsepower became the standard, accounting for all parasitic losses. This means that the figures we'll discuss are more reflective of real-world performance, typically around 75 to 100 horsepower less than gross ratings. With that in mind, let's explore some of Buick's most powerful engines.

400 c.i. Stage 1 V8 - 350 gross horsepower / 440 lb-ft torque

This engine was a standout in Buick's Gran Sport lineup, particularly in the GS 400 introduced in 1967. These vehicles were essentially muscular Skylarks, featuring either the small block 340 or the big block 400. The latter produced 340 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and 440 lb-ft torque at 3,200 RPM. Known as the 400-4 due to its four-barreled carburetor, this engine was designed for responsiveness, making it ideal for highway driving.

The 400 cubic-inch big block wasn't long-lived, being replaced by the 455 in 1970. However, it found a second life through the Stage 1 dealer-installed package, which increased its horsepower to 350 at 4,800 RPM. This made it a competitive option against Pontiac's 400 in the '69 GTO.

430 c.i. V8 - 360 gross horsepower / 475 lb-ft torque

First produced in 1967, the 430-4 was an upgrade over the 340-horsepower 465 Wildcat. Despite having 35 cubic inches less displacement, it offered improved performance. Featuring a prominent "430-4" badge on the header, this powerplant produced 360 horsepower at 5,000 RPM and 475 lb-ft torque at 3,200 RPM.

While not a performance engine per se, the 430-4 was commonly found in Buick's mid and full-size cruisers like the Riviera, Electra 225, Wildcat, and Sportwagon. Some models, such as the Riviera GS, had limited performance upgrades, including a shorter final drive ratio for improved acceleration.

455 c.i. V8 - 270 SAE net horsepower, 390 lb-ft torque

This marks the first engine after the 1972 switch to SAE net horsepower. The 455, introduced in 1970, was a performance engine featured prominently on the 1970 GSX. It offered substantial torque, making it one of the most powerful Buick engines of its time. However, the 1973 Oil Crisis led to a significant reduction in its power output, dropping to just 205 net horsepower.

Despite this, the 455 remained one of the most powerful V8s in Buick's history, known for its reliability and torque output.

3.8L turbocharged V6 - 276 SAE net horsepower / 360 lb-ft torque

This engine is perhaps the most infamous in Buick's history, powering the GNX model. Known for its impressive 0-60 time of just 4.7 seconds, the GNX was a sleeper hit that could outperform many sports cars of its era. Only 547 GNX models were produced, and it closely resembled the Regal Turbo T in trim and design.

Though officially rated at 276 horsepower, many believe the actual output was higher, given its remarkable acceleration. This engine exemplifies Buick's ability to deliver surprising performance in unexpected packages.

2.5L LK0 turbocharged inline four, 328 SAE net horsepower / 326 lb-ft torque

This engine, found in the current Enclave model, represents the most powerful Buick engine in terms of SAE net horsepower. While not a performance car by any stretch, the Enclave benefits from this engine's impressive power, allowing for smooth highway overtaking.

With a power output of 328 horsepower at 5,500 RPM and 326 lb-ft torque at 3,500 RPM, this engine continues Buick's tradition of providing reliable and powerful performance in its larger vehicles.

Overall, while these engines may not always be the most recognized, they showcase Buick's capability to produce powerful and reliable vehicles. Whether it's the torque-heavy 430 V8 or the turbocharged 3.8L V6, each engine has left a mark on Buick's legacy.