Buzz
With 280 turbocharged horses and all-wheel drive, the 1991-1992 GMC Syclone was quick enough to outpace many muscle cars of its era. Check out more images of this iconic classic truck.The 1991-1992 GMC Syclone redefined performance for hot-rod trucks, blending turbocharged power, all-wheel drive, and a finely tuned suspension. Its acceleration matched top muscle cars of the time, and its handling was equally impressive.
Built on GMC's compact Sonoma pickup platform, the 1991-1992 GMC Syclone featured a 108.3-inch wheelbase and a six-foot bed. While the Sonoma offered engines from a modest four-cylinder to a 160-hp 4.3-liter EFI Vortec V-6, the Syclone took performance to another level.
The 1991-1992 GMC Syclone upgraded the Vortec V-6 with a liquid-intercooled turbocharger delivering 14-psi boost, 8.35:1 compression, port injectors, custom pistons, an oil cooler, and dual exhaust. This setup produced an impressive 280 horsepower at 4400 rpm and 350 lbs/ft of torque at 3600 rpm, paired exclusively with a four-speed automatic transmission.
The 1991-1992 GMC Syclone featured a unique "sport-calibrated" suspension, dropping the ride height by two inches compared to the standard Sonoma. It included independent low-rate torsion bars and a robust stabilizer bar at the front, while the rear used a solid axle with semi-elliptic springs. Bilstein gas shocks and aggressive P245/50VR-16 Firestone Firehawk tires on turbine-style aluminum wheels completed the setup.
To manage the turbocharged torque effectively, the 1991-1992 GMC Syclone was equipped with all-wheel drive. The Borg Warner system incorporated a viscous coupling with a 35/65 front-to-rear torque distribution and a limited-slip differential for enhanced traction.
GMC claimed the Syclone was the first pickup to offer a four-wheel anti-lock braking system, though the rear brakes utilized drums instead of discs.
The 1991-1992 GMC Syclone boasted a striking appearance, available exclusively in black with matte-black lower body accents and bold red "Syclone" branding. The interior featured sporty bucket seats, a floor shifter, a leather-wrapped tilt steering wheel, and large analog gauges, including a tachometer and turbo boost gauge.
Standard features included air conditioning, a stereo cassette player, cruise control, tinted windows, and numerous power accessories. The cargo bed was enhanced with the stylish Lexxus TruxCover tonneau cover.
The 1991-1992 GMC Syclone could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in less than 5 seconds and complete the quarter-mile in just 13.4 seconds. Annual production was capped at approximately 3,500 units.
Collectible Pluses of the 1991-1992 GMC Syclone
- The first factory-built compact high-performance pickup
- Outpaced most cars of its era
- Luxurious cabin equipped with every available feature
- Surprisingly smooth ride quality
Collectible Minuses of the 1991-1992 GMC Syclone
- Built for speed rather than utility
- Loud exhaust and overall noise levels
- Limited interior space
- Handling falls short of expectations
Explore more insightful articles and stunning images featuring both modern and vintage trucks by visiting:
- Classic Trucks
- Ford Trucks
- Consumer Guide Auto Reviews and Prices
