1987 Chevrolet Suburban
The 1987 Chevrolet Suburban continued its reign as the king of large, family-oriented SUVs, offering a blend of utility, passenger capacity, and rugged capability that few vehicles could match. Building upon its established platform, the '87 model year brought subtle but significant refinements, solidifying its position as a versatile workhorse and a comfortable cruiser for the modern family.
Highlights
- Engine Options: The 1987 Suburban offered a choice of robust V8 engines, ensuring ample power for towing, hauling, and everyday driving.
- 5.7L (350 ci) V8: This was the standard engine, providing a good balance of power and efficiency for most situations.
- 7.4L (454 ci) V8: For those requiring maximum towing and hauling capability, the larger 454 cubic inch V8 was available, delivering significant torque.
- Safety Features: While safety standards were different in 1987, the Suburban incorporated several key features for its time.
- Seat Belts: Standard three-point seat belts were present for front occupants, and lap belts for rear passengers, a crucial safety development of the era.
- Energy-Absorbing Steering Column: Designed to compress in a frontal impact, this feature helped to reduce the severity of chest injuries for the driver.
- Daytime Running Lamps (DRLs): For increased visibility, DRLs were standard, a proactive safety measure.
- Trim Levels: Chevrolet offered a tiered approach to the Suburban's luxury and features.
- Custom: The base Custom trim provided essential functionality and durability, perfect for those prioritizing utility over creature comforts.
- Custom Deluxe: Stepping up, the Custom Deluxe added a range of amenities, including more comfortable seating, upgraded interior trim, and potentially power accessories, enhancing the passenger experience.
- Sport/Silverado: These higher trims represented the pinnacle of Suburban luxury for 1987, often featuring premium upholstery, enhanced sound systems, alloy wheels, and a more refined exterior appearance, catering to those who desired a more upscale feel.
- Other Notable Aspects:
- Four-Wheel Drive (4WD): The availability of a robust 4WD system made the Suburban exceptionally capable in adverse weather conditions, off-road adventures, or for towing heavy loads on slippery surfaces.
- Towing Prowess: With its strong V8 engines and body-on-frame construction, the Suburban was a formidable towing vehicle, capable of handling trailers, boats, and campers with ease.
- Spacious Interior: The defining characteristic of the Suburban remained its cavernous interior, capable of seating up to nine passengers with ample cargo space behind the last row of seats.
- Rear Barn Doors: A common feature on Suburbans of this era, the split rear barn doors provided versatile access to the cargo area, allowing for easier loading of bulky items.
What to Expect
Owning a 1987 Chevrolet Suburban is an experience rooted in its utilitarian nature and enduring mechanical simplicity. Expect a truck-like driving feel, with a comfortable but not overly refined ride, especially on the highway. These vehicles were built to last, and many examples have endured for decades with proper care.
- Maintenance: Routine maintenance is generally straightforward, with many components being robust and readily available, albeit sometimes requiring specialized knowledge due to their age. Regular fluid changes (oil, transmission, coolant, differential), brake inspections, and addressing any rust proactively will be key to longevity. Given their age, expect to encounter wear-and-tear items like suspension bushings, U-joints, and exhaust components over time.
- Insurance: Insurance costs can vary significantly depending on your location, driving record, and the specific coverage you choose. For classic vehicle insurance, premiums might be lower if the vehicle is not used for daily driving. However, standard comprehensive and collision coverage on an older, larger vehicle can still be a considerable expense.
Potential Considerations
While the 1987 Suburban is a capable and desirable vehicle for many, there are a few drawbacks and things potential buyers should be aware of.
- Fuel Economy: Be prepared for less-than-stellar fuel economy. The large displacement V8 engines, coupled with the vehicle's substantial weight and aerodynamic profile, mean you'll be visiting the gas station frequently, especially with the larger 7.4L engine.
- Aging Technology and Features: Compared to modern vehicles, the 1987 Suburban lacks many of the advanced safety and convenience features we take for granted today, such as airbags, anti-lock brakes (ABS) as standard across the board (though available on some models), rearview cameras, or sophisticated infotainment systems.
- Rust: Like most vehicles of this era, rust can be a significant concern, particularly in areas prone to salt exposure. Thorough inspection of the frame, floor pans, wheel wells, and rocker panels is crucial when considering a purchase.
- Comfort and Refinement: While comfortable for its time, the ride quality and cabin noise levels will not match contemporary SUVs. Wind noise, road noise, and engine sounds can be more prominent.
- Maneuverability: Its sheer size can make parking and maneuvering in tight urban environments a challenge.
Overall Summary
The 1987 Chevrolet Suburban stands as a testament to American automotive engineering, offering unmatched passenger and cargo capacity in a rugged and capable package. It's a vehicle built for those who need to haul large families, tow substantial loads, or simply appreciate the commanding presence and robust nature of a full-size, body-on-frame SUV. While its thirst for fuel and the absence of modern amenities are drawbacks, its enduring reliability, versatility, and classic appeal continue to make it a sought-after vehicle for enthusiasts and those seeking a dependable workhorse.