Boasting a rebuilt 350 cubic inch small block beneath the hood and a generally superb exterior condition, this Nice Price or No Dice GMC Suburban offsets the absence of one door quite effectively. We will assess what this distinctive SUV from an earlier era might fairly command.

Media specialists at Mazda describe the Miata roadster as capturing the brand philosophy of Jinba Ittai, or horse and rider united, reflecting the enjoyable driving experience engineers aimed to deliver from the model's start. The exceptionally clean 1990 MX-5 Miata featured on Monday appeared sufficiently pristine to qualify as an original example.

However, at the $22,500 price point, a buyer would part with a notable portion of their funds. Reader comments largely opposed this valuation, mirrored in the poll results that concluded with an 83 percent No Dice outcome.

Exploring the Suburban Lineage

The word suburb may strike some as contemporary, given the growth of such communities after World War II to house returning service members and families. Yet the term dates back centuries, entering English in the 1300s via French suburbe, itself derived from Latin suburbium denoting an area outside the city limits, blending rural and urban qualities.

General Motors introduced the Suburban name in 1933 on a custom Chevrolet Master wagon. Apart from a wartime pause, the name has appeared on Chevy trucks annually since, marking the longest continuous use for the brand. GMC briefly offered a Suburban as well, shown here in this restored 1972 K2500 4x4. This marked the final year for the Action Line trucks and their unusual three-door hatchback wagon layout that left the left-side middle seat somewhat confined.

The Distinctive K2500 Model

Despite its unconventional design, the Suburban offers considerable utility. It rides on a 127-inch wheelbase shared with the eight-foot bed pickup, providing ample cargo capacity. A robust part-time four-wheel drive system supports this, with the seller noting an upgraded 14-bolt rear axle on this example. True to its era, the truck relies on manual window cranks, door locks, and four-wheel drive engagement. Comfort features include front and rear air conditioning plus a tilt steering column.

The restoration addressed rocker panels, applied fresh paint, fitted new suspension components including the rear axle, and completed additional refinements.

Modern Touches on a Classic

The result presents a clean and orderly appearance with a blend of eras. The light olive paint and white roof evoke the period, complemented by white steel wheels and abundant chrome trim. The vehicle projects a commanding presence despite the missing rear door on the driver side, a cost-saving choice by GMC. A roll-down window allows access, albeit awkwardly.

Under the expansive hood lies a rebuilt small block 350 paired with a TH350 three-speed automatic transmission. Power routes through a Dana 44 transfer case to the live axles as needed.

Interior updates feature power seats and a steering wheel sourced from a 1998 model. The seats wear distinctive covers, while additions include new carpeting, sound insulation, an NVU gauge cluster, updated wiring, and a Bluetooth audio system. New glass was installed for the windshield and vents along with a replacement wiper motor. The truck shows roughly 300 miles since completion and carries a clean title.

Evaluating the Value

With overlanding gaining favor, this ready-to-use truck appeals through its off-road capability and spacious interior suitable for overnight stays. The listing has since marked the vehicle as sold, indicating buyer interest at the price. Still, the question remains whether $37,500 represents fair value for this configuration.

Would the appeal of this resto-mod justify nearly forty thousand dollars? Or would four doors be essential at that level?

Share your thoughts below.