Image of 1987 Pontiac Safari, sourced from www.curbsideclassic.com , Image Link.

Unveiling the 1987 Pontiac Safari: A Station Wagon with Panache

The 1987 Pontiac Safari is not just a car; it's a nostalgic ticket to the family road trips of yesteryear. Born from the esteemed lineage of General Motors, this station wagon served as a testament to the era's automotive craftsmanship. The Safari nameplate, which had been in use since the 1950s, found its place on various Pontiac wagons over the decades, but it was during the mid-80s that it truly defined itself as a family fortress on wheels. What made this vehicle particularly memorable was its role in bridging the gap between utilitarian transport and comfort, offering a glimpse into the future of family vehicles.

Design and Innovation: A Blend of Functionality and Comfort

The exterior of the 1987 Pontiac Safari boasted a classic American wagon design with a long roofline, woodgrain side panels, and a spacious cargo area accentuated by a tailgate that could be opened both sideways and downwards. Its boxy silhouette was complemented by soft lines that added an air of sophistication to its robust stance. Inside, passengers were greeted with plush seating and an array of conveniences that were impressive for its time. The use of high-quality fabrics and materials in the cabin ensured comfort during long journeys. Technologically, it featured power windows, locks, and even a rear-window defogger—luxuries that were beginning to become standard at the time. Color options ranged from subdued earth tones to more vibrant hues, with Dark Maple Red Metallic being among the popular choices.

Historical Significance: More Than Just a Mode of Transport

The 1987 Pontiac Safari wasn't just about getting from point A to B; it was about doing so with style and reliability. It stood out for its blend of passenger car comfort and cargo-carrying practicality, setting a benchmark for future family vehicles. Its significance lies in its ability to cater to the evolving needs of American families while maintaining aesthetic appeal—a feat that many wagons of that era struggled to achieve.

Performance and Handling: Smooth Sailing on Four Wheels

Underneath its hood lay a 5.0-liter V8 engine capable of delivering smooth acceleration and enough grunt for highway merging or towing duties. While not designed as a speed demon, it offered respectable performance figures for its class, with top speeds hovering around the 100 mph mark. The Safari's handling was tuned more for comfort than sportiness; however, it navigated bumps with grace and maintained composure on windy roads. Driving this wagon was akin to piloting a gentle giant—responsive yet serene.

Ownership Experience: The Quintessential Family Companion

Owners of the 1987 Pontiac Safari often used their vehicles as daily drivers, capable of accommodating both grocery runs and cross-country adventures. Its reliability was one of its strong suits, with maintenance being relatively straightforward for the average DIY enthusiast. Parts were readily available due to its shared components with other GM models.

Fun Facts: The Safari's Unique Legacy

Despite not being known for breaking speed records or starring in blockbuster movies, the '87 Safari had its share of limelight moments. It became an icon of suburban America and occasionally found itself in television shows depicting family life in the '80s. One common criticism was its fuel consumption; however, this was largely overshadowed by its utility and charm.

Collector's Information: A Wagon Worth Watching

Today, finding an '87 Pontiac Safari in pristine condition can be challenging but rewarding for collectors. Production numbers were not as high as some other models of the time, making well-maintained examples increasingly rare. Values can vary widely based on condition and originality but expect to see figures ranging from $5,000 for a well-used example up to $20,000 or more for one in exceptional condition or with low mileage. As interest in '80s nostalgia grows, so too does appreciation for vehicles like the Safari.

Conclusion: Embracing the Station Wagon Renaissance

The 1987 Pontiac Safari stands as an emblematic figure in automotive history—a true workhorse dressed in Sunday's best. It encapsulates an era when station wagons ruled suburban driveways and reminds us why these versatile vehicles held such an esteemed place in American culture. As we look back fondly on these automotive titans of comfort and utility, we're reminded that sometimes what's old can become new again on the collector's market.

1987 Pontiac Safari Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores-IS-MW00101Trunk Seal (Imported). Made with steel cores. 1-3/8" X 3/4" X 17'. Each

1987 Pontiac Safari Front Molded Door Seals with Blue Clips-LM 18-L/BCFront Molded Door Seals with Blue Clips. For 4-door sedans and wagons with RWD. Pair R&L

1987 Pontiac Safari Trunk seal-MW00101Trunk seal. Also replaces '75-'79 Buick Skylark hatchback seal. Made with steel cores. 1-3/8 in. x 3/4 in. x 17 ft. L. Each.