The Chevy S 10 over the years has been a common and most beloved sight since 1981, when it made its debut as a 1982 model. It took off on the road in a 22-year career as the compact pickup of choice until it was replaced. down the Colorado in 2004. However, the little truck that could still be out there, and many are still on the roads across the country.
Categorized as a compact truck, the S 10 also ran for a time in the General Motors stable as the GMC S 15, although that model eventually became the Syclone. The Chevy model was a replacement for the Luv, which had been in service since the early 1970s and was a renamed Isuzu KB. The Arab oil embargo signaled the need for small fuel-guzzling vehicles and Chevy makes a concerted effort to deliver them.
The S 10 emerged as a result of that effort, making its debut in 1981 as a 1982 model. The really great thing about the S 10 was that it also came as a sport utility vehicle (SUV), appearing as the S 10 Blazer in 1983. That model in particular it was a 2-door version, outperforming Ford in the SUV market and lagging behind. right behind Jeep, although no manufacturer thought of adding 4-door models until 1990.
General Motors, Chevrolet’s parent company, has introduced a series of compact trucks since 1982, and SUV versions have been available in 2-door or 4-door leather for more than 25 years. The S 10 itself is a favorite of DIY mechanics, particularly its early model years, which were relatively easy to work on.
The engine options in the Chevy S 10 have also varied over the years. Its maiden voyage was conducted using KB’s Isuzu in-line 4-cylinder engine. At the time (1982) it had decent horsepower, producing 84 horsepower, with 101 pound-feet of torque. Although such power was nothing to shout from the highest mountain peaks, it was fine anyway.
The optional engine from the S 10’s debut to 1985 was a 2.4-liter V6 with a 2-barrel Rochester carburettor that increased power to 115 horsepower and 148 pound-feet of torque, adding a bit of ‘oomph’ to the engine. package. For a short time (1983-1985) Chevy offered a diesel engine, with a whopping 58 horsepower and 98 pound-feet, but died from lack of interest.
Over the life of the vehicle, 4 and 6 cylinder models continued to be offered, with improved horsepower, torque and fuel economy. Fuel injection eventually became standard, replacing the less efficient carburetor, which happily disappeared from the scene after a while. Sequential port injection, multiple ports, and throttle body all played a role at one point or another, along with the 3- and 4-speed automatic transmission and even a sleek Borg Warner 5-speed manual.
The second-generation S 10s (’94 to 2004) continued to get better, adding to the fun factor with even more 2- or 4-wheel-drive versions. Larger, more powerful, and more fuel-efficient engines were also offered, including including a hot SS type that came with a 4.3-liter engine going from 180 to 195 horsepower. Improved graphics packages and a lowered profile on 16-inch wheels complete the setup. However, it was discontinued in 1998.
The Chevy S 10 was a near-iconic little pickup in the General Motors lineup for a long time. It is still on many roads, streets, and roads. Widely known throughout North America, it served a necessary role at a time when American automakers desperately needed a small truck that could get decent gas mileage and deliver consistent sales to the manufacturer.
