The GMC Sprint was a coupe utility from the GMC. It was based on the Chevrolet El Camino platform. GMC Sprint was available in 2 generations between 1971 to 1977. These were available as trucks for businesses with the performance-oriented engines. Here is everything about the 1971 GMC Sprint.
Engines
The GMC Sprint was built around a couple of engines. As it was designed as a performance package, GMC wanted to build it with high-speed engines. This model featured inline-6 and V8 engines. Apart from these, few models of GMC Sprint were available with the legendary big-block V8 engines. The horsepower and speed in big-block V8 engines were higher than the other two engines. GMC Sprint delivered a top speed between 94mph to 130mph. It was built with the GM Air Injection Reactor system which reduced emissions.
Technology
GMC Sprint cars were built on the GM-A body platform. The engine was placed in the front side with an independent suspension. Suspension came with coil springs and leaf springs. GMC Sprint featured drum brakes in most of the models. Some units were equipped with the dual-circuit hydraulic braking system. Most units were built around manual transmissions. For better cargo space, GMC incorporated a wagon suspension tuning technology.
Interior Features
The interior of the GMC Sprint was similar to the Chevrolet and Chevelle cars of its time. As this was a utility vehicle, the interior features like foam-cushioned vinyl bench seats, vinyl upholstery, interior colors, AC, power steering, cruise control, fuel gauge, and warning lights were added. There were new comfort features like padded armrests, cigarette lighter, dome lamp, and power windows.
Muscle Ute
Not every utility vehicle combines performance of muscle cars, but the GMC Sprint was one kind of a vehicle. It combined the performance of V8 cars with luxury features. Also, it was a utility vehicle with cargo beds. This was rare to see during the muscle car era. GMC Sprint was driven like a race car and it was used by businesses for transportation at the same time.
Simple Designs
GMC Sprint had the styling of a regular utility coupe. Most of the designs from Chevrolet El Camino were retained. In the front end, a GMC grille with horizontal bars were placed. This gave the vehicle a new look and also captured the attention of buyers. There were GMC letters and badges as well with quad rounded headlights. In the rear end, the taillights, bumpers, and drop-down tailgate were placed. It also had the designs of other muscle cars like long hood, wide stance, and short rear deck.
Sales
The first-generation GMC Sprint did extraordinary sales with around 1.1L units. The price of the vehicle was not more than $4,000 USD. This was much needed for people who wanted to own a luxury and performance-oriented car. GMC Sprint was mostly sold in the USA apart from Canada. Unlike other cars, this was not exported to the UK and Australia. GMC Sprint is now available in collector markets and museums. It did record sales in auctions.
