What is a GM body style A?
GM body style A, also known as the A-body, refers to a specific automobile platform developed and used by General Motors (GM) from the 1960s through the 1980s. This platform was utilized across several GM brands, including Chevrolet, Pontiac, Oldsmobile, Buick, and even some Cadillac models. The A-body platform was known for its versatility and was used for a wide range of vehicle types, from compact sedans to mid-size muscle cars.
Origins and Evolution of the A-body Platform
The A-body platform was first introduced by GM in 1964 and was designed to replace the previous X-body platform. The initial A-body models included the Chevrolet Chevelle, Pontiac Tempest, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Buick Skylark. Over the years, the A-body platform underwent several updates and revisions, with the most significant changes occurring in 1968 and 1978.
The 1968 redesign of the A-body platform resulted in larger, more spacious vehicles, while the 1978 update focused on downsizing the platform to improve fuel efficiency in response to the oil crisis of the 1970s. Despite these changes, the A-body platform remained a popular choice for GM, with the Chevrolet Malibu, Pontiac Grand Prix, and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme among the most well-known models built on this platform.
Key Characteristics of the A-body Platform
The A-body platform was known for several key characteristics, including:
- Rear-wheel drive layout: The A-body platform was designed with a rear-wheel drive layout, which was a common configuration for American cars of the era.
- Variety of body styles: The A-body platform was used for a wide range of vehicle types, including two-door coupes, four-door sedans, and even station wagons.
- Powerful engine options: Many A-body models were available with powerful V8 engine options, making them popular choices for performance-oriented drivers.
- Affordability: The A-body platform was designed to be a more affordable option compared to larger, more expensive GM models, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.
The A-body platform played a significant role in GM's success during the 1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, and its versatility and popularity continue to be recognized by automotive enthusiasts today.
What models are GM a-body cars?
“A-Body” cars include – Chevrolet: Chevelle, Malibu, Malibu SS, El Camino. Buick: Special, Skylark, Sportwagon. Oldsmobile: F-85 Cutlass, Vista Cruiser. Pontiac: Tempest, LeMans, GTO ('64-'65).
What is considered a GM B-body?
The B platform (also known as the B body) is a full-size, rear-wheel drive, body-on-frame car platform, that was produced by General Motors (GM) from 1926 to 1996. Originally made for Oldsmobile and Buick, all of General Motors's five main passenger car makes would use it at some point.
What is an A-body car vs B-body?
Originally, both the A-body and B-body were used for full-size cars, so in 1959, the B-body became the standard for full-size vehicles and the A-body was discontinued. The A-body made its return in 1964 as the standard for midsize cars.
What is considered a GM a-body?
The General Motors A platform (commonly called A-body) was an automobile platform, and was GM's original, and oldest, platform used by all early GM products, beginning with the Chevrolet Superior. From this platform, all North American platforms B, C, and D were developed.
What are GM C body cars?
Generally the C-Body was for the top-of-the-line models of multiple General Motors divisions including the Oldsmobile 98 and Buick Electra, and the base model for multiple Cadillacs, including the Series 6200 Calais, the Series 6300 de Ville, the Series 6400 Eldorado, the Series 6000 Fleetwood Sixty Special and the ...
What is an F body GM car?
GM, Ford, and Chrysler made many different vehicles on a small handful of platforms. These platforms were usually called "bodies." One of the most common examples is the GM F-Body, which was used to build 1967-2002 Chevrolet Camaro and Pontiac Firebird models.
What is GM of A and B?
√ab.
What is an a-body dodge?
The Chrysler A platform was the basis for smaller rear wheel drive cars in the 1960s. These cars are sometimes referred to as A-body cars. Cars using the A platform in various markets around the world include: 1960–1976 Plymouth Valiant. 1960–1981 Chrysler Valiant.
What is considered a GM G body?
The General Motors G platform (also called G-body) was an automobile platform designation used for mid-sized rear-wheel drive cars. It made its first appearance from the 1969 to 1972 model years, adapted from GM's A-body, and reappeared from 1982 to 1988.
Is a 72 chevelle an a-body?
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-sized automobile that was produced by Chevrolet in three generations for the 1964 through 1977 model years. Part of the General Motors (GM) A-body platform, the Chevelle was one of Chevrolet's most successful nameplates.
