Toyota has been around since your parents or even your grandparents were once cool. Given their rich history, it’s nice to see that even up until this day, the company is still making an impact. That’s why even though it doesn’t talk about classic cars, we couldn’t pass on posting Toyota’s brand new ad. Just picture yourself driving its new 2010 Toyota Tundra through the structure shown in the commercial (yes, including through the blazing tunnel). Not an easy feat, but we’re guessing that it will be with this new pickup. So be sure to check the ad today.

Source: YouTube

Isuzu has given us a number of solid vehicles through the years. One particular ride we’d like to remember is one of the company’s first SUVs. This is none other than the first generation Isuzu Trooper.

Although it’s not as appealing as today’s SUVs, it managed to get the job back then. Released as a 2-door and 4-door vehicle, the Isuzu Trooper was equipped with a rear axle and front independent suspension. During its production run, this SUV was equipped with three types of engines: a 2.6-liter I4, a 2.3-liter I4, and a 2.8-liter TD I4 engine. Among all three, the 2.6-liter stood out since it was Isuzu’s first fuel-injected engine.

Aside from these engines, the first generation of the Isuzu Trooper was given a 4-speed manual transmission. It also enjoyed a number upgrades such as s shift from round sealed beam lights to rectangular headlights. Another was the optional clutch-type limited slip rear differential.

After a decade of decadence, the first generation Isuzu trooper was laid to rest in 1991. But even though it’s not with us now, it will always be remembered as one of the pioneers of today’s modern SUVs.

Source: Wikipedia

SUVs have always been a fan favorite, particularly in the rural areas. With their rough-and-tough appearance, these SUVs looks like one of the jacked-up bullies who used to beat you up for your lunch money. Take for example the 1980-1986 Ford Bronco.

Although it’s considered shorter than its predecessors, it didn’t diminish its imposing appearance. However, to make up for its lack of size, Ford incorporated a twin traction beam setup or TTB to give it an independent front suspension. Compared to other models, this gave this version of the Bronco better control and comfort, both off road and on road. The only drawback of having this suspension though is that it affected the vehicle’s alignment.

Another way Ford was able to compensate for this Bronco’s lack of size was giving it a set of engines that focused on fuel economy. Through the years, this truck enjoyed the use of the following engines: a 4.9-liter Straight-6, a 4.9-liter 302 V8, a 5.8-liter 351M V8, and a 5.8-liter Windsor V8. These engines allowed the 1980-1986 Ford Bronco to enjoy a burst of power ranging from 156 hp to 210 hp.

So even though the 1980-1986 Ford Bronco literally and figuratively fell short in terms of size, it still managed to make waves thanks to its unique suspension and array of engines. And yes, it still can kick your behind just liked your old-time jacked-up bully.

Source: Wikipedia

If you’re on the lookout for an SUV of your own, here’s your chance to get one that has some historical value. This 1993 GMC Typhoon SUV happens to be the very last one produced for this vehicle class. And this rugged four-wheeled monster can be yours for the measly (we’re being a little bit sarcastic here) $10,300.

This historical 1993 GMC Typhoon was originally used as a static display. Afterwards, it became part of the GM Heritage Collection and stored in the company’s Heritage museum for the last 15 years. It was then offered up for auction by Barrett-Jackson Scottsdale this year where it was purchased for a whopping $52,800, auction fees and all. Given the heritage that this ride carries, how come its previous owner is selling it? Well, maybe he (or she) thought that the price he paid for it was way too much. Or the owner is starting to feel the effects of the recent economic crisis. Honestly, we’re just guessing here.

So what does this 1993 GMC Typhoon come with? Well, it’s equipped with a 4.3 turbo engine, an All-Wheel drive feature, power windows and locks, a keyless entry system, and a factory-installed CD player. Additional accessories include a large windshield decal and an original window sticker. The SUV sports a black exterior and interior, is in good condition, and has only chalked up 130 miles.

Now if you’re interested in getting this SUV for your own, start placing your bid today. The owner has indicated that this 1993 GMC Typhoon comes with a certificate of origin from General Motors to back up the legitimacy of this vehicle. And in a gesture of gratitude for purchasing this ride, the owner is even willing to take care of all transportation costs. It’s either the owner is genuinely a nice guy or he just wants to get ride of the SUV fast. Either way, compared to how much the owner got it to the price its commanding now, this 1993 GMC Typhoon looks to be a steal.

Sources: Autoblog, eBay

It’s funny how a vehicle, whose name is a Spanish slang for the word “wanker”, became a hit among SUV owners. Thankfully, Mitsubishi managed to pack this vehicle with a slew of features when it first came out, eliminating the need to focus on its somewhat derogatory translation. As an added precaution, Mitsubishi also released the Pajero using other names such as Montero, which meant “mountain warrior” in Spain and India, and Shogun. Anyway, names and translations aside, here’s a glimpse of what the first generation Pajero brought to the table when it was first released.

Making its debut in the 1981 Tokyo Motor Show, the Mitsubishi Pajero came out as a three-door model with a metal or canvas top. It was given four types of engines to choose from ranging from a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, a 2.6-liter 4-cylinder petrol engine, a 2.3-liter naturally aspirated diesel engine, and a 2.3-liter turbocharged diesel engine. It also came with a turbocharged diesel engine, a front double wishbone suspension, torsion bar springs, power steering, and suspension seats. These features made the Pajero unique because they were only commonly used on passenger cars.

1983 proved to be an important year for the Pajero since this was the time it incorporated the use of a long wheelbase. This gave the SUV a larger seating capacity of seven and increasing its doors to five. It was also equipped with two engine types: a 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol and a 2.3-liter turbocharged.

Although 1984 gave the Pajero new turbo diesel engines, enhanced disc brakes, and adjustable shock absorbers, it wasn’t until 1987 that the vehicle line came up with a new flagship model. This model sported new features such as light alloy wheels, a two-tone paintjob, front seat heaters, and wool seat covers.

The last model to appear for the first generation Pajero came in 1988. It came in either a 3.0-liter SOHC V-6 engine or a 2.5-liter turbo diesel engine with a 4 x 4 intercooler. The intercooler was the first of its kind to be used and gave the SUV better acceleration. Its suspension was also upgraded to a coil link system, giving it better off-road maneuverability.

Thanks to the success of the first generation Pajero, its succeeding generations were able to enjoy tremendous success. Not bad for a vehicle whose name means something offensive when translated in Spanish, huh?

Source: Wikipedia