Image of 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban, Note: These illustrations use artistic license and may differ from actual historical models.

Unearthing the Stalwart of the '80s: The 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban

The 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban stands as a testament to American automotive resilience, a behemoth that catered to families and adventurers alike. Born in an era where size and space were synonymous with comfort and capability, the V20 Suburban was Chevrolet's answer to the growing demand for a versatile, full-size SUV. Its origins trace back to the early days of Chevrolet's station wagon development, but by the mid-80s, it had evolved into a symbol of suburban utility and ruggedness. A unique fact that car enthusiasts revel in is that the '87 Suburban was part of the vehicle's eighth generation, which saw one of the longest production runs in automotive history, from 1973 to 1991.

Design and Innovation

The 1987 V20 Suburban's exterior styling was a blend of functionality and modest charm. Its boxy silhouette and broad stance exuded a sense of unwavering stability. The interior was spacious, with enough room to comfortably seat up to nine passengers, a feature that made it a favorite for large families and group outings. Materials used within were durable and designed to withstand the test of time and the rigors of daily use. Technologically, it boasted features like power windows and locks, which were considered advanced for its time. The color palette ranged from conservative shades to more adventurous tones, with Apple Red and Desert Sand being among the popular choices. The most iconic body style was the four-door model with a half-ton or three-quarter-ton option, reflecting its dual nature as a comfortable people mover and a capable workhorse.

Historical Significance

The 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban didn't just transport people; it carried the American spirit of exploration and utility. It set itself apart with its sheer size and capacity, influencing the design of future SUVs and cementing the concept of the family utility vehicle in the automotive market. Its lasting influence can be seen in the numerous iterations of SUVs that followed, each building on the foundation that the Suburban laid down.

Performance and Handling

Underneath its hood, the '87 Suburban housed a robust engine that propelled this giant with surprising agility. While top speed and acceleration figures may not compete with today's standards, for its time, it moved with purpose and power. Handling was as expected for a vehicle of its stature; it was stable on straightaways and composed on less forgiving terrains. Drivers often reminisced about the commanding view from the driver's seat, the satisfying rumble of the engine, and the overall sense of control despite its size.

Ownership Experience

The V20 Suburban was as versatile as they came – it served as a daily driver, a show car, and even a tow vehicle for weekend getaways. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, with many units surpassing significant mileage with proper maintenance. The ease of repair made it a favorite among DIY mechanics and contributed to its enduring presence on the roads.

Fun Facts

A lesser-known tidbit about the '87 Suburban is that it occasionally found itself in celebrity garages and even had minor roles in films and television shows, further cementing its cultural significance. It wasn't uncommon for these vehicles to reach impressive mileages, showcasing their built-to-last engineering. Despite its popularity, some criticized its fuel consumption – a trade-off for its size and power.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban has found a place in the hearts of classic car collectors. While production numbers were substantial, finding one in pristine condition can be a challenge. The value range for collectors can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality, but you can expect to see prices anywhere from $5,000 for a well-used example to upwards of $25,000 or more for a meticulously maintained or restored vehicle. The market trend seems to show a slow but steady appreciation for these rugged classics.

Conclusion

The 1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban is more than just an old-school SUV; it's a piece of Americana that tells a story of family road trips, outdoor escapades, and an era when cars were built with purpose and presence. Its legacy lives on in every modern SUV that prioritizes space, comfort, and versatility – making it an undeniable icon in automotive history.

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long-IS-LM 121Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long. Each

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Drivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-MDrivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764130. Each

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Passenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-NPassenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764131. Each.

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Liftgate Seal, 75-91 GM Suburbans with Liftgate, Each-LM 121-PLiftgate Seal, 75-91 GM Suburbans with Liftgate, Each. Replaces OEM #15594665. This part was designed using the original factory design that consists of the lower clip on seal and upper glass run that are connected as one piece with molded sections.

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Radiator support cushion-RA 4Radiator support cushion. Fits '68-'91 Chevrolet cars and trucks with Big Block engines. (See associated vehicles.) Reproduction rubber insulator cushion with 3.08 in. recess fits upper and lower mounts. Replaces OEM# 6264100. Each.

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Quarter Window Seal, 75-91 GM Suburban, Fits Left or Right, With Trim Groove-VQT 1975Quarter Window Seal, 75-91 GM Suburban, Fits Left or Right, With Trim Groove, Each. Seal goes first on the body then the glass is placed in the opening. Made from original specs and with high quality ozone resistant EPDM rubber for a great fit and long life. This item is designed to be installed during glass replacement.

1987 Chevrolet V20 Suburban Windshield Seal, 73-87 GM Full Size Truck, 73-91 GM SUV, Without Trim Groove-VWS 7313-DThis windshield seal goes on the body first then the glass is placed in the opening. Tucking in the self locking strip secures the glass in place. It is a standard black gasket without trim groove. This product is made from the original specs and with high quality ozone resistant materials for a great fit and long life. This item is designed to be installed during glass replacement.