The Chevrolet pickup truck is a hallmark of American culture that spans generations. The S10 is no exception; What it lacks in size, it makes up for with performance and unique character. It's a legendary representation of the unique origins of compact Chevy pickups.
The first S-10 made its debut in 1982, a compact pickup that would accumulate a faithful fan base over time. The original generation of S10s featured two different engines; A 2.5L with 105hp or a V6. The trucks were 2-wheel drive when the legacy began and would be offered in 4x4 versions the following year. At the time, four-wheel drive trucks were becoming increasingly popular in America.
The Chevy Colorado could be considered the most recent descendant of the S-10 lineage. Over time, there have been many different models of the S-10 produced, and the compact pickup lightweight design is a great platform for adding some insane mods.
Here’s a little history about some iconic S-10 models.
The All Terrain Baja Model
The S10 Baja was a rugged 4 wheel drive version of the truck with two engine choices, a 2.8 or 4.3L V6 and a roll bar. In 1989 the stock Baja came equipped with P235/75R15 tires and skid plates with the option for off-road aluminum wheels. Some additional options included endgate nets and a spare tire carrier for the bed.
This model was on-trend with the popularity of off-roading in America in the late '80s, when 4-wheel drive vehicles were experiencing a surge in sales.
The High Performance ZR2
As time progressed, options for the S10 increased to include different cab styles (regular, extended, and crew) and a performance off-road edition, dubbed the ZR2. The ZR2 came stock with a Vortec L35 V6 which could make up to 190hp and 250 ft.-lb. of torque.
Although this was the sole engine choice for this model, both a 4-speed Hydra-Matic and 5-speed overdrive transmission were offered. Upgraded suspension and 31”x10.5” off road tires also enhanced its ability to maneuver in tough conditions.
The GMC Syclone was a high performance, hot rod version of the GMC S-15 Sonoma (GMC’s version of the S-10). The stock Syclone had impressive statistics, making 280hp and 350lb-ft torque with a 4.3L V6 turbo under the hood. They have become a symbol of classic American hot rod tradition.
Prices for the Syclone can be steep as this truck has become quite a rare commodity. These trucks are iconic in their representation of American light-duty pickups and how their influence has persisted over time.
The Electric Version
A truly unique version of the S-10 was the little-discussed EV version, produced between 1997-98 with a total of approximately 1,100 trucks. This version had a 16.2kWh lead acid battery (weighing in at 1400lbs) prior to the 39kWh NiMH battery released in 1998. This truck was mainly produced for fleets and had a and a 70-mph top speed with a 114-hp motor. Some models had a diesel heater to keep the battery toasty while operating in frigid conditions.
Loyalty to the S10 is substantial, as with many Chevy trucks. GM engineer and S-10 EV owner Tom Convey explained “The smooth, quick acceleration was like taking off in a light aircraft…The sound of the gear whine reminded me of a turbine engine. If GM made a vehicle like that again, I’d buy it in a minute! I miss that truck!” Although the EV model didn’t last for very long, it’s definitely a unique piece of American history.
Racing & Off-Road Mods
The iconic status of the truck and its loyal following can be seen in the quantity and variety of modded S-10s on the road. Its construction and compact size has made it a popular race truck. One modded 1993 S-10 was equipped with a LS1 and nitrous to crank out 530hp and 550lb-ft of torque. It is also a great platform to create a custom off-road truck with a versatile frame that can accommodate most any purpose.
Sources: GM Authority, Auto Influence, Hot Rod, Pickup Trucks