| Production | |
|---|---|
| Model Year: | 1985 |
| Production Years: | 1985 - 1994 discontinued in 1994 |
Precise measurements of the 1985 GMC Safari I, engineered for optimal performance and comfort
| Dimensions | |
|---|---|
| Length: | 4490 mm176.8 in14.7 ft |
| Width: | 1956 mm77.0 in6.4 ft |
| Height: | 1905 mm75.0 in6.3 ft |
| Trunk Capacity: | 626 liter22.1 cu ft |
| Trunk Capacity (Max): | 4128 liter145.8 cu ft |
| Weight Specifications | |
| Curb Weight: | 1580 kg3483 lbs |
| Tire Specifications | |
| Rims Size: | 15 |
| Tire Size: | 195/75 R15 (W:195 | H:75 | D:15) |
The first-generation GMC Safari, produced between 1985 and 1994, is a classic example of an American minivan designed for functionality and space. With an overall length of 4490 mm (176.8 inches), a width of 1956 mm (77 inches), and a height of 1905 mm (75 inches), the Safari I offered a roomy interior suitable for families and cargo transport alike. Weighing in at a curb weight of 1580 kg (3483 lbs), it balanced size with manageable mass for its class. Its wheel setup included 15-inch rims mounted with 195/75 R15 tires, contributing to a comfortable ride and stability. One of the standout features of the GMC Safari I was its cargo versatility, offering a substantial luggage capacity of 626 liters (22.1 cubic feet) with all seats in place. Fold the rear seats down, and this capacity dramatically increased to an impressive 4128 liters (145.7 cubic feet), facilitating the transport of large items or increased cargo loads. This minivan's generous dimensions and practical design made it a popular choice throughout its production run, representing an essential segment of crossover utility and family vehicles in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Whether for daily commuting or longer trips, the GMC Safari I combined American engineering with versatile space planning, which remains notable in the history of minivan evolution.
Discover the standout features that make the 1985 GMC Safari I a leader in its class
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The GMC Safari I minivan, produced between 1985 and 1994, measures 4490 mm (176.8 inches) in length, 1956 mm (77.0 inches) in width, and 1905 mm (75.0 inches) in height. These dimensions give it a balanced footprint ideal for a passenger van, combining spaciousness with manageable external size.
With a width of 1956 mm (77.0 inches), the GMC Safari I offers ample cabin space while remaining practical for most urban and suburban driving environments. This width allows comfortable three-across seating in the interior, yet it does require mindful parking in narrow spaces. Its width fits well within typical lane widths, making it relatively easy to maneuver despite its size.
The height of the GMC Safari I is 1905 mm (75.0 inches), which is typical for minivans of its era, providing a high seating position and easy ingress and egress for passengers. This height contributes to good headroom inside and improves visibility for the driver. However, this also means it's important to watch out for clearance in low garages or parking structures.
The GMC Safari I has a curb weight of approximately 1580 kg (3485 lbs). A moderate weight for a minivan, this impacts fuel economy and handling. The vehicle’s weight, combined with its design, provides a stable ride, though acceleration and braking may feel less brisk compared to lighter vehicles. Its weight supports the structural integrity needed for passenger safety.
The GMC Safari I offers a versatile cargo capacity of 626 liters (22.1 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place, suitable for groceries, luggage, or daily cargo needs. When the rear seats are folded down, the space dramatically increases to 4128 liters (145.7 cubic feet), making it well-suited for transporting larger items, furniture, or bulky gear, demonstrating its flexibility as a family or utility vehicle.
Yes, the GMC Safari I fits comfortably into a standard single-car garage. Standard garage widths range around 2438 mm (96 inches) and depths typically around 5486 mm (216 inches). Given the Safari I's width of 1956 mm (77 inches) and length of 4490 mm (177 inches), it fits with room to spare on all sides, though care should be taken with the height of 1905 mm (75 inches) if the garage has low ceiling fixtures or storage.
The GMC Safari was introduced in 1985 as a new model, so it technically had no immediate predecessor in GMC's minivan lineup. However, compared to the general full-size vans and conversions that preceded it, the Safari I was smaller and more maneuverable while offering similar passenger volume. Its dimensions made it a more family-friendly alternative to larger vans, focusing on minivan practicality over full-size van bulk.
Compared to its contemporaries like the Chevrolet Astro, Chrysler Town & Country, and Dodge Caravan, the GMC Safari I is similar in length but slightly wider and taller than some early minivans. For example, the Dodge Caravan of that era was slightly shorter and narrower, prioritizing compactness. The Safari I's dimensions gave it a boxier, more utilitarian design with more interior space, making it particularly appealing for passengers and cargo alike.
The GMC Safari I comes equipped with 15-inch rims and tires sized 195/75 R15. These tire dimensions are well suited for the vehicle’s minivan role, providing a balance between ride comfort, handling stability, and load carrying capacity. The tire aspect ratio of 75 ensures adequate sidewall height for cushioning over rough roads, while rim size contributes to moderate sporty handling characteristics.
The GMC Safari I is classified as a minivan, produced from 1985 through 1994. It was designed primarily for families and small groups needing passenger transport with versatile cargo capability. Its spacious interior, rear seat folding mechanism, and moderate size made it well-suited for daily commuting, road trips, and light commercial use, bridging the gap between full-size vans and smaller family cars.
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