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1982 Union 76 Parade Car
The next step in the Grand National story is not as well known as it's predecessor. This car is an '82 model that was a continuation of the 1981 Indy Pace Car project. It was prepared as a parade car for Union Oil's "Race Stoppers."
This vehicle has an identical T-top/convertible roof and similar paint/graphics, this time in blue and white. The rear spoiler was again used and but this time a front air dam was also added. The most significant difference between the two Pace Cars is in the engine compartment. This car utilizes the 3.8 litre turbocharged V-6, which "provides sufficient moxie to light the tires easily and pushes the 3570 pound machine to cruising speed in a hurry."
It is obvious that these two cars were the inspiration of the '82 Grand National. The GN has a similar paint scheme (in silver and charcoal), T-tops, special interior, upgraded suspension, and front and rear spoilers. The '82 GN was a pace car for the streets!
Original Drawing contributed by Buick Designer Steve
Pasteiner.
Sources:
"Anatomy of a Pace Car" by Dick Berggren, Stock Car
Magazine, March 1982
1982 Daytona 500 Program