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GMC Safari Overview
Links To GMC Safari Parts By Year
Both GMC and Pontiac have used the Safari nameplate (GMC is part of the Pontiac/GMC division); Pontiac used the nameplate on several of its station wagon models from 1955 through 1989. The two Safaris, both Pontiac and GMC, were on the market together (often sold by the same dealerships) from 1985 through 1989. Due to their truck-based platform, the Astro and Safari could pull 5,500 lb with proper equipment. AWD models could tow up to 5000 lb where properly equipped. This is opposed to car-based, front-wheel drive minivans cannot pull as much weight. Initial advertising boasted that it was a vehicle that will "make you realize that life is too big for a minivan", referring to the Chrysler minivans. Engines options ranged from 160 to 190 hp V6 engine, depending on options and/or model year. The van seated up to 8 passengers. Much like the second-generation GM-F-Body and X-body vehicles, the GM M-van (Astro/Safari) had a bolt-on subframe incorporating the front suspension from a GM-B-body station wagon (Chevrolet Caprice, Cadillac Brougham) with a leaf-spring rear suspension. The lower ball joints were larger than their B-body counterparts, however. These ball joints were later used in the final Chevrolet Caprice 9C1 (police package) cars manufactured in 1995 and 1996. They also shared many mechanical similarities to the GMT 325/330 midsize S/T Pickup/Utilities. As mentioned above, the Astro and Safari were rear-whell drive vehicles, but in 1990 a new full-time all-wheel drive (AWD) system, designed and developed by FF Developments (FFD), was made optional. The AWD models had a lower fuel economy: 17 miles per gallon highway versus 20-21 for rear-drive vans. In 1990, a new dash was introduced along with the availability of a long-wheelbase model. In 1995, the model was face lifted with an extended nose that resembled the then-new full-size Express vans. In 1996, a redesigned dash received a passenger side air-bag. The vans remained mostly unchanged until canceled in 2005. In 2003, GM upgraded the chassis of both the Astro and Safari with certain suspension components, larger brakes, and six-lug, 16 inch wheels from the full-size Chevrolet and GMC half-ton pickup trucks. The modifications improved the poor handling and braking of the vans.
