1987 Chevrolet Blazer

Chevrolet introduced the Chevy Blazer SUV in 1983. Prior to that, the Chevrolet K-5 Blazer existed, but it was a large truck that eventually changed its name to Tahoe. In 1983, Chevrolet modified its S-10 pickup truck and gave it rear passenger seats and an enclosed rear space, modified it toward the sporty market segment, shrank it a little to give it a manageable size - and one of the first SUVs was born.

The Chevy Blazer's base model was just that - base transportation (vinyl seats, stark interior), but its Tahoe and Sports models progressed up the "fancy" ladder, adding cloth seats, nicer interior trim, and so on. In 1987, a single serpentine belt replaced separate belts for the power steering, alternator, and air conditioning (which was still an option, not standard). The 2.5-liter, 92-hp, 4-cylinder engine featured new cylinder heads and intake manifold for smoother operation, though it didn't gain power. A 6-cylinder, 4-liter, 173-hp engine was optional.

Speaking of options, Chevrolet came out with a "High Country" exterior paint option mid-year, with a shiny black top melting into gold color below, with gold body trim. Other options included air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo system, and a tilt steering wheel.

People who have owned '87 Chevy Blazers generally report that the truck is reliable, tough, and fearless, going anywhere the driver points it. Some say it has a rough, uncomfortable ride, has insufficient engine power for hills and towing, and has a serious rust problem.