Converting to turbo?

[Malcolm]

I'm looking at buying an 87' Regal with the "T" package. It has the 3.8l non-turbo engine. What are my options with going to turbo on it? Also, any ideas on how much I'd be dropping on a project like this?

[Keller]

Hmm...thought the '87 T cars were all powerd by a Buick turbo V6 or 307 Olds V8...

The short answer is, unless you do an entire driveline transplant, it isn't going to be easy. A real TR is a LOT more than just a turbo on a V6.

See http://www.gnttype.org/forums/showthread.php?t=3468

The difference between a carbed car with a weak rear end and a fuel injected, turbocharged, intercooled car with a strong rear end is a BIG difference. Short of buying a wrecked car and transplanting everything, it likely would be easier to just buy a real turbo T from the onset.

[Malcolm]

Thanks for the quick reply. Great info you gave and to the point. The guy has 3 Regals for sale, might see about a group purchase. Either way, I'd be happy with the non-turbo regardless. I've been looking for a Regal since I got rid of my first one, I just love how they look. For $1500/obo, I haven't found anything similar for this price that's a 20 minute drive away. Until I hit the lottery, this is as close to my dream car (87' GN) as I can get right now. I was just curious about the possibility of an upgrade, and your post was right on point and answered my question perfectly. Thanks for the feedback.

P.S. I also thought they all came with the Turbo, but I found this site where he clarifies that the Base and Limited Regal had the option for the "T" package (Y56) and also the Exterior Sport Package (W02).