I’ve noticed as of late that the Chevy Blazers of the late ’80s are picking up in price. It’s not to say these were particularly rare when new, but it is getting considerably harder to find a nice one. That being said, I’m not surprised to see the $16,499 asking price for this nicely preserved example here on eBay, which has just 90,000 miles on the clock and remains in highly original condition.
It’s also rare to find them still in stock condition, without a raised suspension underneath or other unsightly modifications. Many of these Bronco competitors have become popular with the mudding crowd, or simply as a beach rig for younger owners who believe you don’t need to maintain a beater truck. It’s too bad, as the current market for two-door off-roaders with removable roofs is limited to the Jeep Wrangler, an extremely pricey entry into off-road shenanigans. This one looks extra-honest, with preserved paint and original wheels on stock-sized tires.
That’s when $16K for a rig that will find fans everywhere from the strip to the sand starts to look somewhat reasonable. Broncos have been commanding strong money for years, especially in low-mileage, preserved condition. K5 Blazers are poised to enjoy a run-up in price sooner or later, mainly because they offer all of the same off-road capable features, as well as the looks of a classic off-roader that’ll put hair on the chest of practically anyone. It’s an emotional purchase, but people have been buying vehicles with their heart instead of their brain for generations.
The seller says he is the second owner, and the Blazer has remained in North Carolina since new. The longtime first owner kept it under a carport for 32 years, which has caused the paint to fade a bit. The headliner droops and the radio is intermittent, but these issues are relatively minor in the grand scheme of things. While the A/C needs a charge (or rebuilding), the hard-top has never been removed – so perhaps that honor can go to the next owner instead of forking over the money for an A/C system repair. I suspect the seller will see close to his asking price, even if it takes some time.
As a auto enthusiast and collector back in 2017 I bought ALL original 79 Blazer K5 got 50K original miles its Brown/white color has 305 auto , PB , original rally wheels No Ac I paid 20K even for it
Considering the joke Chevy’s bringing out today that they named a “Blazer”, THIS is more the size & style it should’ve been!! Built off the Silverado platform, they could have sold a gillion of them!! But no….they’re bringing out another GM appliance that no one wants.
Perhaps you’ve heard of the Tahoe? Basically this car, but you know, new.
@Ralph……
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There is NO similarity between these K Blazers and a Tahoe…
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Price isn’t bad, pretty close to MSRP back then.
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When I ordered a new ’87 Silverado K in 1986, and it cost me 13488. (less than List). My current 1993 K Blazer cost a lot more, and though it rides better, has a better engine and transmission, and is pretty good, it is not the same either, as it is has IRS in front, and is not bulletproof.
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Um the linage from the K5 to the Tahoe is direct, the big Blazer literally became the Tahoe in 1994 in case you didn’t know that, now you do.
Ralph, your milage may differ, but the old school solid axle blazer, with a 350/5.7L and a 4bbl carb, was one of the toughest and most respected vehicles ever made, and I’m mostly a Ford person,
I trust the people at GM to know what people want to buy. Just because you and I don’t want it, doesn’t mean much.
I do believe they have sold gazillions of Tahoe’s and Yukon’s. They’re everywhere.. and based off the light truck (Silverado) chassis.
Several months ago I picked up a ’79 GMC Jimmy that sat for many years.
After towing it home, changing the fluids, and a new battery and she fired right up! One owner, white w/ burgundy coves and the ultra cool plaid and carmine red interior.
Really nice shape being from AZ, and only 99K miles
I’ve spent over 40 hours cleaning it and it is looking really good!
Removing the top is not an honour. It’s a mistake. Leave it on
Likely an anemic 305 cubic inch. At 90k that would be a worn motor likely.
Nice truck and worth the money but needs a 350
Heck, 454 all the way!
I have an 85 with a 350 and even that barely wants to boogie. 68k well-cared-for miles so abuse isn’t the issue.
I agree with Greg. You should NEVER remove the top. If you do, it will leak. Unless the seals are like brand new, it will leak. We had Blazers in the Army (M1009), and it was forbidden to remove take off the top.
Sweet looking bone stock Survivor. Had a few w 305 and they are dogs but good for plowing snow. If I could afford this nice one I’d put a 500 caddy in it and just have fun