1991 GMC Syclone

Description

In the early 1990s, the nastiest vehicle on the road wasn't a car, but a lowly compact pickup truck. This 1991 GMC Syclone was GM's state-of-the-art performance machine, combining a turbocharged V6 with all-wheel-drive and an impressively competent suspension to create one awesome little pickup that could show Corvettes its taillights.

I don't know how the guys in engineering got these trucks through the corporate certification process, but I'm sure glad they did. The smallest, lightest truck stuffed with the biggest horsepower engine in the GM arsenal save for the ZR1's LT5 makes for one heck of an entertaining ride. The only way you could get one was in basic black, but that's OK because it looks awesome. A custom ground effects package in satin black makes it instantly identifiable, but the entire package is rather restrained in today's world of stripes and scoops and spoilers (I'm looking at you Dodge Ram SRT10). This particular Syclone was repainted in 2011 in single stage black, just the way the factory did it. The body kit was also refinished in a correct matte black that should last practically forever if you take care of it properly. Out back, the bed is almost completely unmarked (these trucks didn't have much of a cargo rating) and it's protected by a trim-fitting tonneau cover that looks great. There are only a few signs of use, but the overall impact of this truck is as formidable today as it was 25 years ago. Nobody's gonna mess with this little truck.

The interior is in excellent condition as well, indicative of the 36,683 original miles. You got a proper driving environment, starting with a set of neatly upholstered bucket seats with "Syclone" embroidery on the head rests and red piping to show off a bit. Matching black carpets and door panels are notably nicer than the stuff in the standard S10 pickup, and a center console was almost unheard-of in a compact truck. A leather-wrapped steering wheel and a full complement of big found gauges, including a boost gauge in the tach, suggests the Syclone is very serious about performance. The only deviation from stock is a modern AM/FM/CD stereo, but the original radio is available if you really must have it. Corvette owners will find the shifter looks and feels familiar, and everything works properly, from the A/C to the power windows and locks. Nice!

All Syclones came with a 4.3 liter turbocharged V6 making a rated 280 horsepower, but in reality, it was well over 300. It also comes with more than 350 pounds of torque, which is what you really feel when you mash the throttle. This truck's engine was rebuilt a few years ago and has a built bottom end designed for more boost and more horsepower, but at the moment, the induction is stock so it's seriously over-built. You want more power, you don't have to worry about breakage. The same goes for the 4-speed automatic transmission, which was the only gearbox that could handle the horsepower. Full-time all-wheel-drive was the only sensible way to get the power to the pavement, and if you do it right, this thing launches like it's attached to a giant rubber band. Even today, there aren't many cars that can do the 0-60 thing better. The suspension is built for handling, and includes recent shocks and a great-sounding dual exhaust. Special 16-inch alloy wheels give it a distinctive look and carry 245/50/16 performance rubber all around.

If you've always wanted one of these, this is the one to own. Low miles, fresh paint, built engine and transmission, and a low price. I guarantee it won't be here next week, so call now!