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GMC Typhoon
Out of all SUVs Detroit produced in the early ’90s, arguably the most interesting and fastest was the GMC Typhoon. What the Ford Bronco Boss didn’t get the chance to achieve, the Typhoon did. It was a limited production small SUV with a high price tag for its day and unbelievable performance, setting it apart from the rest. More than 25 years since the first Typhoons saw the light of day, this vehicle is still a benchmark of performance and style. But, what makes it so interesting and desirable?
Typhoons came with a 4.3-liter V6 engine with a turbocharger and intercooler. The power output was 280 HP, which is not that impressive today, but back in 1991, it was a nice number. The automatic transmission, performance oriented all-wheel drive system and suspension helped its performance. The Typhoon could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.7 seconds. Even today, this is fast for an ordinary SUV.
The rest of the package included special trims, luxury interior appointments, special colors and wheel choices with limited production numbers. In just three years of production, from 1991 to 1993, they made 4,697 Typhoons. Since then, this model has achieved collector car status. So, now they are worth more than the original sticker price of $29,000.
You may think those performance figures are not great, but the Typhoon could outrun a Ferrari 348 back in its day. Today, performance SUVs are relatively common, but they come with high price tags, big weights and a lack of performance and speed. That is why the market needs a new Typhoon to reintroduce pure performance in the compact SUV class. It should also be capable of defeating modern sports cars in stoplight drag races.