Image of 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban, sourced from bringatrailer.com , Image Link.

The Quintessential Family Cruiser: The 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban

The 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban is not just a vehicle; it's a rolling testament to American automotive culture. Born from the venerable Chevrolet line, the Suburban has etched its name into the annals of automotive history as one of the longest-running models in the industry. This particular year marked a period when the Suburban was transitioning from a utilitarian workhorse to a more comfortable, family-oriented vehicle. A unique fact that car enthusiasts might find intriguing is that the Suburban is one of the few vehicles to have been offered with both a traditional station wagon body and a more robust, truck-like chassis.

Design and Innovation

The 1986 C20 Suburban's exterior styling was a blend of function and modest flair, characterized by its boxy silhouette and commanding presence. The chrome bumpers and grille, along with the squared-off body lines, spoke of an era where vehicles were designed to make a statement. Inside, passengers were greeted with a spacious interior that could comfortably seat up to nine individuals, with quality materials that were built to last. Technologically, it featured power windows and door locks—luxuries at the time—alongside an optional rear air conditioning unit for added comfort. Color options ranged from conservative shades to more vibrant hues, with Apple Red and Midnight Blue being among the popular choices. The most iconic body style was the four-door model, which offered unparalleled practicality and became synonymous with the Suburban nameplate.

Historical Significance

The 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban's impact on automotive design was profound. It set the standard for what a full-size SUV could be, combining robust truck capabilities with passenger car comforts. It was one of the pioneers in the SUV segment that would later explode in popularity. Its lasting influence can be seen in the countless SUVs that now dominate American roads.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the C20 was often equipped with a powerful V8 engine that provided ample performance for its size, with acceleration times that could surprise many contemporary sedans. The top speed was not its selling point, but it had enough grunt to handle highway cruising with ease. On various driving conditions, the Suburban displayed a commanding road presence and a relatively smooth ride for such a large vehicle. The sound of its V8 was unmistakably American, providing an auditory thrill that complemented the driving experience.

Ownership Experience

The 1986 Suburban was versatile; it served as a daily driver, a show car, and even as a tow vehicle thanks to its robust frame and powerful engine options. Maintenance and reliability were among its strong suits, with parts being readily available and repairs generally straightforward—qualities that endear it to collectors and enthusiasts alike.

Fun Facts

Did you know that some Suburbans were used by federal agencies as undercover or official vehicles? Or that they've been featured in numerous films and TV shows, cementing their place in pop culture? Despite its size, common criticisms included fuel economy—not surprising for a V8-powered giant of its time.

Collector's Information

Today, the 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban has found its niche among classic car collectors. While production numbers were substantial, pristine examples are becoming rarer. Values can vary widely based on condition, mileage, and originality, but well-maintained models can fetch anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 or more on the collector's market. As vintage SUVs continue to gain popularity, prices for these vehicles are appreciating steadily.

Conclusion

The 1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban stands as a symbol of American ingenuity and versatility. It bridged the gap between rugged utility and family comfort, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape. Whether you're a collector or simply someone who appreciates classic American iron, the Suburban is a vehicle that commands respect and admiration. As we look back on its storied past, we're reminded of its undeniable contribution to the evolution of the modern SUV—a true testament to its significance.

1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long-IS-LM 121Front Door Seal (Imported). Fits either side. 148" Long. Each

1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban Drivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-MDrivers Side (left) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764130. Each

1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban Passenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal-LM 121-NPassenger-Side (right) Rear Cargo Door Seal. Replaces OEM #9764131. Each.

1986 Chevrolet C20 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.

1986 Chevrolet C20 Suburban Door Handle Gasket Set Fits 73-87 Chevy and GMC Trucks OEM-Style Molded Lip-MP 806Each component is built by factory measurements and specifications for a direct-fit replacement and simple installation, focusing on restored authenticity. The top-tier USA Made construction and materials ensure durability and longevity for a long-lived replacement that will far outlast your factory stock models.

1986 Chevrolet C20 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.

1986 Chevrolet C20 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.