GMC Typhoon

Description

This 1993 GMC Typhoon is no ordinary SUV - it is an automotive declaration of war from the early 90s. In elegant white, it combines understatement with brute performance and is today one of the most sought-after US performance vehicles of its time. The Typhoon was way ahead of its time and is considered the forefather of all modern performance SUVs.

Under the hood is the legendary 4.3 liter V6 turbo engine, based on the Chevrolet small-block, here combined with an intercooler and all-wheel drive. The power unit was specially designed for performance-oriented forced ventilation. The result: impressive acceleration figures, a massive increase in torque from the cellar and a sound that is deep, throaty and unmistakably American. The 4-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and perfectly matches the character of the car.

With an acceleration of 0 - 100 km/h in around 5.3 seconds, it was faster than many icons of its time and turned the automotive pecking order on its head. For comparison:

  • Ferrari 348 TB: approx. 5.6 seconds
  • Porsche 911 (964) Carrera 2: approx. 5.7 seconds
  • Chevrolet Corvette C4: approx. 5.9 seconds
  • BMW M5 E34 (3.8): approx. 5.9 seconds

And the Typhoon achieved all of this with automatic transmission, all-wheel drive and space for luggage - a combination that simply did not exist until then. While super sports cars struggled in wet or cold conditions, the Typhoon uncompromisingly transferred its performance to the road.

The feared and respected Typhoon presents itself in well-kept, used condition, is technically flawless and ready to drive. Sporty, dark and functional on the inside, beefy and compact on the outside - it was precisely this mix that made it a sensation at the time. Even today, it still drives amazingly modern, incomparably powerful and stable. A new DAB radio with Bluetooth ensures adequate sound inside. The LED headlights have been retrofitted for a slightly more aggressive look, the original parts are present and functional.

It hasn't missed any servicing and all of it has been carried out by the Swiss Typhoon pope, Garage Blaas in Dietikon. The underbody is clean and the turbo wonder is fresh from a major service, during which it was given a new alternator, a new battery and new winter tires on the original rims.

If the white color does not fit, there is also a black one available, which is in excellent condition.

A relatively large stock of spare parts, both original and aftermarket, would be available by arrangement and a fresh MFK can also be discussed.

This is a vehicle for connoisseurs, collectors and US car enthusiasts who are looking for something really special. The GMC Typhoon is not a trend vehicle - it is a milestone. Rare, uncompromising and full of character.

Selling price: 18'900 CHF

Model history

When GMC presented the Typhoon in 1992, the car world initially didn't understand what was happening. A compact SUV, lowered, turbocharged, with all-wheel drive and sports car-like performance? At a time when SUVs were primarily commercial vehicles, the Typhoon seemed like a foreign body - and that is exactly what made it legendary.

Technically, the Typhoon was based on the GMC Jimmy, but was extensively revised by PAS (Production Automotive Services) in close cooperation with GMC. At its heart was the 4.3-liter V6 (code LB4), which was boosted to around 280 hp and 490 Nm with a Mitsubishi turbocharger, a water-cooled intercooler from Garrett and reinforced innards - figures that made even many sports cars look old at the beginning of the 1990s.

The permanent all-wheel drive with 35:65 power distribution provided impressive traction. In combination with the tightly tuned suspension, the Typhoon catapulted itself to 100 km/h in under 5.5 seconds - faster than a Ferrari 348 or a Porsche 911 Carrera 2 of the time. These facts made it a legend long before the term „performance SUV“ even existed.

Visually, the Typhoon was deliberately understated but brutally effective: monochrome paintwork, wider fenders, special bumpers, 16-inch alloy wheels and a minimalist appearance without chrome. The interior was dominated by black, complemented by sports seats, a boost pressure indicator and clear, functional instrumentation. Luxury was secondary - performance was paramount.

Socially, the Typhoon was ahead of its time. It appealed to enthusiasts who wanted performance without being bound by classic sports car conventions. It quickly achieved cult status, particularly in the US tuning and street racing scene. Together with its sister model, the GMC Syclone, it formed a class of its own - uncompromising, fast and uncomfortable for the competition.

The Typhoon was only built in 1992 and 1993, a total of 4,967 units. Vehicles in good, original condition are real collector's items today. The Typhoon is regarded as the blueprint for everything that followed: Porsche Cayenne Turbo, BMW X5 M or Lamborghini Urus - they all owe their existence to this GMC.

The 1993 GMC Typhoon is therefore not only a rare vehicle, but also a piece of automotive history. A car that was not only ahead of its time, but overtook it.

Details

- 190,700 km

- 1. inv. 01.03.1993

- MFK 02.12.2022

- 4.3 liter V6 turbo engine

- 280 HP

- Type certificate X

- Master number 315.428.786

- Chassis 1GD CT1 8Z9 P081 0391

- Unladen weight 1,750 kg

not what you are looking for?

We will be happy to find your individual dream vehicle.

Simply make a non-binding inquiry and benefit from our network.