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2016 Shannons Melbourne Autumn Classic Auction
Lot
27

1988 GMC Sierra LWB Utility (LHD)

$14,000

Sold

Specifications

Engine V8, 350-cid
Gearbox 3-speed automatic
Body Work Utility
Colour Red
Interior Deep Red
Trim Cloth
Wheels Steel disc
Brakes Discs/Drums

Description

This lot is no longer available

With a history dating back more than a century, the General Motors Truck Company was the outcome of a merger between the Rapid and Reliance Motor Companies by General Motors in 1911 and the first GMC vehicles were unveiled at the New York International Auto Show the following year. Over the years the GMC brand built a series of reliable, tough pick-ups and trucks, initially powered by Pontiac sourced engines, then smoother, Buick-derived units from 1931, before being joined by the ubiquitous V8 in 1955. From the 1960s onwards the GMC pick-up range was matched by the very similar Chevrolets, with only the quad-headlamp styling, trim and badges setting them apart and this trend continued to the present day, although the GMC has been positioned as a premium brand over the more basic Chevrolet commercial range. General Motors announced a major facelift mid-way through 1987 for the 1988 model year, with modern styling features and completely re-engineered underpinnings. The new range of C and K-series (2WD and 4WD respectively) trucks were downsized and more aerodynamically efficient, with flush side glass. Electronic fuel injection was introduced at long last, along with a sophisticated Insta-Trak four-wheel drive system that could be engaged on the move. GMC promoted the fact their new trucks were as comfortable as most passenger cars, with additional legroom and more supportive seats, along with useful features like dual 12-volt outlets and a built-in storage compartment behind the front seats. The redesigned bodywork saw the spare wheel relocated from underneath the flatbed to a far more accessible side location. The 1988 GMC model range consisted of the Sierra (with a choice of different cabs and three wheelbase lengths), the long-wheelbase Crew Cab and Suburban SUVs, while engines varied from a 4.3-litre V6 to a 5.7-litre V8. There has been a growing interest in early American pick-ups and unlike the Ford’s more commonly sighted F-Series, the GMC remains something of a rarity on Australian roads, making the example offered here just that little bit different.