History of the GMC Syclone: 80s Fastest Pickup
Produced in 1991 by GMC in collaboration with Production Automotive Services (PAS), the Syclone emerges as a remarkable rendition of the GMC Sonoma pickup truck.
Updated: March 6, 2024 // History
Notably, PAS was also responsible for crafting the iconic 1989 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am. However, the Syclone set new benchmarks, claiming the title of the fastest production truck of its time. Here is the history of the GMC Syclone, and it’s impact on the car/truck world.
The GMC Syclone Beat a Ferrari & Corvette
The synergy between GMC and PAS yielded the groundbreaking trio of high-performance vehicles: the Syclone, Typhoon, and Sonoma GT. These marvels of automotive engineering were meticulously crafted and retailed through dealerships.
The GMC Syclone broke records as the fastest stock pickup truck in the world upon its launch. In a notable comparison test, Car & Driver magazine compared the Syclone’s acceleration against the Chevrolet Corvette and Ferrari 348 ts.
Why Was The GMC Syclone So Fast?
At the heart of the Syclone’s lay a 4.3L turbocharged 6-cylinder engine, seamlessly paired with an automatic transmission and an AWD driveline. The heart of this beast featured a Mitsubishi TD06-17C 8cm² turbocharger and a Garrett water/air intercooler. Upgrades like hyper eutectic pistons, nodular iron main caps, better head gaskets, improved intake and exhaust pipes, and a 48mm twin-bore throttle body from the well-known 5.7L GM Small-Block engine showed even more engineering skill. Notably, the Syclone was the first production truck to have anti-lock brakes on all four wheels. For a pickup truck of its time, the GMC Syclone’s time from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds was very impressive. The GMC Syclone could also go the quarter mile in 14.1 seconds.
AWD for the Win
The GMC Syclone’s had a 4L60 4-speed automatic transmission and a BorgWarner 4472 all-wheel drive transfer case, the truck mastered torque distribution, allocating 65% of power to the rear wheels and 35% to the front wheels. Car & Driver conducted a detailed comparative test that methodically documented the Syclone’s lightning-fast acceleration from 0 to 60 mph (in 4.3 seconds) and its dominance of the quarter-mile (in 13.4 seconds) at 98 mph.
Limited Editions: Showcasing Ingenuity
The Syclone’s reign extended beyond its exceptional performance, as evidenced by the limited-edition models that further elevated its allure.
Marlboro Syclone
The synergy between ASC and Shinoda Design Associates birthed the distinctive Marlboro Syclone, bestowed as the grand prize for winners of The Marlboro Racing ’92 Contest. These 10 Syclones underwent an astonishing transformation, featuring targa-style roof panels, signature Boyd Coddington “Cobra” wheels, and a captivating PPG “Hot Licks” Red paint. Winners enjoyed an exhilarating day of racing alongside the Indy racing team, along with exclusive VIP access and coveted Marlboro apparel.
Indy Syclone & PPG Syclone
The Indianapolis 500 witnessed the spotlight shine on the Indy Syclones in 1992. One of these remarkable trucks was subsequently transformed into the PPG Syclone Pace Truck, boasting a captivating multicolored paint scheme, advanced modifications for track use, and an unforgettable presence. After retiring to the GM Heritage Collection, this unusual masterpiece sold for $66,000.
Global Impact: The Saudi Syclone
The speedy truck impact went beyond lines, as shown by the fact that about 150 Syclones were sent to Saudi Arabia during the year it was made. Out of these, 113 were tailored for resale in the Middle East, equipped with metric dash clusters, leaded fuel chips, and distinct mods.
The GMC Syclone has left a mark on history as the first of many speedy trucks.
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GMC Syclone Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the GMC Syclone?
The GMC Syclone is a high-performance truck produced by General Motors in the early 1990s.
2. When were they produced?
This high-speed truck was produced from 1991 to 1992. The production runs were limited, making these vehicles quite rare and sought after by collectors.
3. What engine did the Syclone have?
The Syclone has a turbocharged 4.3-liter V6 engine, this engine produces 280 horsepower and 350 lb-ft of torque.
4. How fast is the Syclone?
The GMC Syclone can accelerate from 0-60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, which was extremely impressive for a pickup truck of its time. The GMC Syclone could also run the quarter mile in 14.1 seconds.
5. How many were made?
There were 2,995 units of the Syclone produced in 1991, only 3 were built in 1992.
6. Any special editions?
Yes, there were special editions. For example, there were ten Marlboro Editions with unique upgrades and an Indy Edition that was a one-of-a-kind speed demon.
Disclaimer: The writers of this article may have used artificial intelligence to help them with some of the material. It should not be a replacement for professional help.