How much is a 1987 Chevy Blazer worth?
A 1987 Chevy Blazer’s value generally spans from roughly $3,000 on the low end to $20,000 or more for standout examples. The exact price hinges on condition, mileage, originality, drivetrain configuration, and documentation.
Understanding the 1987 Blazer and the market
The 1987 Blazer is part of Chevrolet’s first-generation (K5) Blazer lineup, a rugged, body-on-frame SUV favored for off-road capability and classic 1980s styling. Values in today’s market reflect not just mechanical condition but also how original the vehicle is, how well it’s been maintained, and whether it’s a factory V8 with four-wheel drive. Collectors and enthusiasts often pay a premium for clear provenance, rust-free frames, documented maintenance, and unmodified or thoughtfully restored examples.
Factors that influence value
Several elements determine how much any given 1987 Blazer is worth. The following list highlights the primary considerations buyers cite when valuing a classic Blazer.
- Condition and rust: Frame integrity and overall body condition have outsized impact on price.
- Mechanical condition: Engine, transmission, drivetrain, and braking systems should be reliable; documented service history helps.
- Originality and documentation: Matching numbers, original paint, VIN verification, and service records add value.
- Mileage and usage history: Lower miles, especially for a 1987 body, generally increase value if well cared for.
- Options and configuration: Factory V8, 4x4, manual vs. automatic transmission, and trim level can shift price.
- Modifications vs. stock: Subtle, period-correct upgrades may not hurt value, but heavy customization can.
In practice, buyers weigh these factors together. A clean, documented, rust-free example with a solid mechanical baseline tends to command the higher end of the market, while projects and heavily rusted frames tend toward the lower end.
Typical price ranges by condition
Below are general value bands based on condition, reflecting current market data from classic car guides and recent sales. These ranges are approximate and can vary by region, demand, and specific vehicle history.
- Concours/Showroom quality: $20,000 to $40,000+
- Excellent to near-original: $12,000 to $20,000
- Very good to good, driver-ready: $7,000 to $12,000
- Fair condition or needs work: $3,000 to $7,000
- Poor or parts car: under $3,000
Prices in this range can shift with notable auctions, regional demand, and updates to valuation guides. Buyers should treat these bands as guidelines and verify with current listings and recent sale data before making a decision.
Estimating value today: a practical approach
To gauge a specific Blazer’s worth in the current market, use a step-by-step method that combines data sources and a physical check of the vehicle.
- Assess the vehicle’s condition in detail: body, frame, mechanicals, interior, and paint quality.
- Check for originality and documentation: confirm matching numbers where applicable and gather service records and receipts.
- Consult multiple value guides: compare estimates from Hagerty Price Guide, NADA Classic Car Guide, and other reputable sources.
- Review recent sale data: search Bring a Trailer, Mecum, barrett-jackson, and regional auctions, plus private listings and dealer stock.
- Consider getting a professional appraisal if the vehicle is unusually rare, highly modified, or intended for a high-stakes sale.
In practice, combining a professional appraisal with current market data from several sources typically yields the most accurate value for a specific Blazer. Market demand can swing with vintage-truck trends and show-season interest, so ongoing monitoring is prudent.
Where to check current data
To stay informed about up-to-date values, refer to established valuation guides and recent sale results. The following sources are commonly consulted by buyers and sellers of classic Blazers.
- Hagerty Price Guide for classic and collectible cars
- NADA Classic Car Guide for market ranges and dealer values
- Bring a Trailer and other auction results for real-world sale prices
- Specialty classic car marketplaces and enthusiast forums
- Local dealer listings and private-party market scenes
Using a combination of these sources helps build a realistic selling or buying expectation, especially since auction results can skew higher for well-presented cars or specific configurations.
Selling or buying tips for a 1987 Blazer
Whether you’re purchasing or preparing to sell, these practical considerations can help maximize value and ensure a fair deal.
- Get a pre-sale inspection focusing on frame, suspension, brake system, and drivetrain.
- Provide complete provenance: maintenance logs, receipts, and any restoration work performed.
- Document originality: confirm no missing VINs, correct engine, transmission, and option codes.
- Be honest about condition and any known defects to avoid later disputes.
- Price to attract serious buyers: set a realistic asking price with room for negotiation and stage the vehicle for photos and test drives.
With transparency and solid documentation, a seller can improve buyer confidence; a buyer can better assess value and negotiate effectively.
Summary
A 1987 Chevy Blazer carries a broad value range driven by condition, originality, and documentation. Low-condition projects may anchor near a few thousand dollars, while well-maintained, mostly original or carefully restored examples can command double-digit thousands and beyond for extreme, showroom-quality units. To gauge current value, consult several valuation guides, review recent sales, and consider a professional appraisal for high-value examples. The market for these classic SUVs remains active among collectors and enthusiasts, so staying informed is key to a fair deal.
For further reading and up-to-date comparisons, check multiple sources such as the Hagerty Price Guide, NADA Classic Car Guide, and recent Bring a Trailer auctions to see where a specific Blazer in similar condition is selling today.
