What is the curb weight of a 1979 Chevy LUV?
The curb weight of a 1979 Chevy LUV is typically around 2,900 pounds (about 1,315 kilograms) for a standard 2WD regular-cab model with a conventional bed; exact figures vary with engine choice, cab/bed configuration, and whether the truck uses four-wheel drive.
Context and what curb weight means for the LUV
Curb weight refers to the vehicle’s empty weight with standard equipment and fluids, but without occupants or cargo. For the Chevy LUV, which was marketed as a compact pickup based on an Isuzu design, curb weight varied by configuration in 1979. Most early LUVs used a 4‑cylinder powertrain and were sold in 2WD form with regular or extended cabs, with heavier specifications for 4x4 variants and longer beds.
Typical curb weight by configuration
The following ranges reflect common 1979 LUV configurations. Exact weights depend on engine, cab style, bed length, and whether four-wheel drive is installed.
- 2WD Regular cab with standard bed: roughly 2,700–2,900 lb
- 2WD Regular cab with longer bed or optional equipment: roughly 2,800–3,000 lb
- 2WD Extended cab or higher-trim models: roughly 3,000–3,200 lb
- 4x4 (four-wheel drive) variants: roughly 3,000–3,300+ lb
These ranges provide a practical sense of the LUV’s empty weight across common configurations. For precise figures, consult the specific vehicle’s factory documentation or the door‑chart sticker from the original spec sheet.
Factors that affect curb weight
Several elements can shift the curb weight of a 1979 Chevy LUV beyond the typical ranges listed above.
- Engine choice and related components (smaller 4‑cylinder vs. larger or modified installations)
- Drivetrain configuration (2WD vs. 4x4)
- Cab style (regular vs. extended cab) and bed length
- Optional equipment and trim level (accessories, radio, bumper options)
- Aftermarket modifications or added safety equipment
In practice, these variables mean that two trucks from the same model year can differ by several hundred pounds. For historical or restoration work, verify the exact curb weight from original manufacturer literature or the vehicle’s VIN-specific paperwork.
Notes on sourcing and reliability
Curb weight figures for 1979 Chevy LUV come from period Chevrolet/Isuzu literature, dealer spec sheets, and contemporary automotive references. While ranges are useful for general planning, precise numbers should be confirmed against the specific vehicle’s documentation.
Summary
In sum, the typical curb weight for a 1979 Chevy LUV sits near 2,900 pounds for a standard 2WD configuration, with heavier weights for extended cabs, longer beds, and four-wheel drive models. Weight varies by engine, equipment, and configuration, so exact figures require factory data or the vehicle’s door sticker. This understanding helps historians, restorers, and enthusiasts compare early LUV variants with accuracy.
