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The Quintessential Family Hauler: The 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban

The 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban is not just a vehicle; it's a rolling testament to the era of big family adventures and the American love affair with the road trip. Born from the sturdy lineage of GMC, a division of General Motors known for its robust trucks and utility vehicles, the '87 Suburban was designed to tackle both the urban sprawl and the untamed outdoors. With a history stretching back to the 1930s, the Suburban nameplate is one of the longest-running in automotive history. This particular model year stands out as it marks the beginning of the Suburban's ninth generation, introducing a modernized look and feel that would carry on into the early '90s.

Design and Innovation

The exterior of the 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban was a blend of function and style, featuring a boxy silhouette that maximized interior space while maintaining a rugged charm. The chrome grilles, optional two-tone paint jobs, and angular lines gave it a distinctive presence on the road. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious cabin that could comfortably seat up to nine individuals. The use of plush fabrics and practical plastics spoke to the vehicle's dual nature as a comfortable people mover and a utilitarian workhorse. Technologically, it boasted features like power windows and door locks, air conditioning, and even an optional rear heater for those in the back.

Color options ranged from subdued earth tones to bolder shades, with Apple Red and Midnight Blue being popular choices among enthusiasts. Body styles included a two-door and a more common four-door model, with the latter being the go-to choice for families and professionals needing extra space.

Historical Significance

The '87 Suburban's impact on automotive design was substantial, setting the stage for future SUVs that would dominate the market. It bridged the gap between station wagons and the more truck-like SUVs of earlier decades, offering a blend of practicality and comfort that was previously unheard of in such a large vehicle. Its lasting influence can be seen in the countless SUVs that now fill parking lots across America.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban was typically equipped with a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, providing ample power for hauling and towing. While top speed and acceleration were not headline figures for this giant, it moved with a sense of purpose and reliability that owners valued. The Suburban handled bumps with grace thanks to its solid construction and suspension setup, while windy roads were navigated with surprising agility for its size. Driving one was an experience characterized by the throaty rumble of the V8 and the commanding view over other road users.

Ownership Experience

The GMC Suburban was often seen as the ultimate daily driver for large families, an indispensable tool for towing, or even as a show car for enthusiasts of classic American utility vehicles. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, though fuel economy was not. Maintenance was relatively straightforward, making it an accessible classic for those with basic mechanical knowledge.

Fun Facts

Among some unique trivia, certain '87 Suburbans were outfitted with special equipment packages, making them sought after by collectors. While not known for breaking speed records, the Suburban did set benchmarks for durability and longevity. Criticisms often centered around its thirst for fuel and sheer size, which could be cumbersome in tight spaces.

Collector's Information

Today, the value range for an 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban can vary greatly depending on condition, mileage, and originality. With production numbers in the tens of thousands, they are relatively available on the collector's market. Prices can range from a few thousand dollars for models in need of TLC to upwards of $20,000 or more for well-maintained or restored examples. As appreciation grows for '80s vehicles, well-kept Suburbans are slowly but surely becoming more collectible.

Conclusion

The 1987 GMC V1500 Suburban stands as a symbol of an era when bigger often meant better. It combined practicality with presence, offering families and adventurers alike a vehicle that could do it all. As we look back on its legacy, it's clear that this iconic SUV carved out its own chapter in automotive history, one that continues to be celebrated by enthusiasts and collectors around the world.

1987 GMC V1500 Suburban Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long-IS-LM 121Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long. Each

1987 GMC V1500 Suburban Drivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-MDrivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764130. Each

1987 GMC V1500 Suburban Passenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-NPassenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764131. Each.

1987 GMC V1500 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 GMC V1500 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 GMC V1500 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.