BLAST FROM THE MOBILE PAST: THE GMC MOTORHOME

Back in the 1970s, Recreational Vehicles were picking up momentum across the nation as a fun, self-contained get-away for either family vacations or year-round living for retirees. Of course, GMC pushed the envelope with its own version of the RV, the GMC Motorhome. Manufactured between 1973–1978, the GMC Motorhome was the only complete motorhome designed and built by a major automobile manufacturer. Even the interior cabinetry and fixtures were constructed in-house at GMC! Only about 12,921 GMC Motorhomes were produced from 1973 to 1978, and with many having long since found their way to the crusher, they’re a rare sight today. Read on for more about this odd and fascinating bit of GMC history.

PERFORMANCE:

In contrast to most motorhomes at the time — the majority of which were manufactured…

on frames fitted with full, rear-wheel-drive heavy-duty drivetrains supplied by a chassis manufacturer — GMC designed, engineered, and built the GMC Motorhome from scratch. While many RVs had a standard rear differential to spin the rear wheels, requiring a much higher rear load floor and less headroom for occupants, the GMC Motorhome utilized a unique, front-wheel-drive transaxle. Called the Unified Powerplant Package at GMC, the 445-cubic-inch V8 engine and transaxle combo was sourced from GMC’s General Motors sister company, Oldsmobile, where it was used in the groundbreaking, front-wheel-drive Olds Toronado. Packing 350 horsepower and over 400 lb.-ft. of low-end torque, the engine provided plenty of power to make this mobile mansion move, while allowing the rear floor of the GMC Motorhome to be built lower and flatter, for more interior room and comfort.   

GMC DESIGN:

Manufactured in 23- and 26-foot lengths, the GMC Motorhome featured a strengthened aluminum frame mounted on the steel ladder frame. The flooring was rot-proof marine plywood, except for aluminum plates where the floor sloped up at the extremities. Giving the GMC motorhome its sleek and aerodynamic look is a body made largely of lightweight, reinforced fiberglass. The upper side body and roof panels consisted of sheet aluminum. Another feature that appealed to those seeking solace in the great outdoors were the GMC Motorhome’s large, curved side windows which redefined RV styling at the time. The design of the GMC Motorhome was so groundbreaking that Mattel’s Barbie even got in on the act, with her now-iconic yellow Barbie Star Traveller Motorhome bearing more than a passing resemblance to the GMC Motorhome. Inside, the real GMC Motorhome was a luxury apartment on wheels, offering features such as plush seating, cruise control, air conditioning, AM/FM/8-track sound systems, and air suspension to ensure a comfortable ride.

The GMC Motorhome was an instant sensation and made a long-lasting impact on the RV market with its groundbreaking engineering, interior and exterior design. It remains the only RV ever built in-house by a major auto company. GMC is still going on strong today with quality vehicles that offer the capability and advanced versatility necessary to keep your day running smoothly. Stop by McLarty Buick GMC in Bentonville and let us assist you with your vehicle needs. 

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