68 72 GM A-Body Cars
Overview
The GM A-body was a mid-size automobile platform produced by General Motors from 1964 to 1972. The A-body was used for a variety of vehicles, including the Chevrolet Chevelle, Pontiac GTO, Oldsmobile Cutlass, and Buick Skylark.
The 1968-1972 A-body cars were significant for their performance and styling. The Chevelle SS and Pontiac GTO were particularly popular muscle cars, and the Buick Skylark and Oldsmobile Cutlass were popular luxury coupes.
History
The A-body platform was first introduced in 1964. The platform was used for a variety of vehicles, including the Chevrolet Chevelle, Pontiac Tempest, Oldsmobile F-85, and Buick Special.
In 1968, the A-body platform was redesigned. The new platform was longer and wider than the previous platform, and it featured a new front end design. The 1968-1972 A-body cars were also the first to offer a V8 engine as an option.
The A-body platform was discontinued in 1972. It was replaced by the GM X-body platform.
Models
The following vehicles were built on the GM A-body platform from 1968 to 1972:
* Chevrolet Chevelle
* Pontiac GTO
* Oldsmobile Cutlass
* Buick Skylark
Specifications
The following are the specifications for the 1968-1972 GM A-body cars:
* Wheelbase: 112 inches
* Length: 194 inches
* Width: 74 inches
* Height: 54 inches
* Weight: 3,200 pounds
* Engine: V8
* Transmission: 3-speed manual or 4-speed automatic
* Brakes: Front disc, rear drum
* Suspension: Front independent, rear solid axle
* Steering: Power steering
Performance
The 1968-1972 GM A-body cars were known for their performance. The Chevelle SS and Pontiac GTO were particularly popular muscle cars. The Chevelle SS could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.5 seconds, and the Pontiac GTO could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds.
The Buick Skylark and Oldsmobile Cutlass were also capable performers. The Buick Skylark could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.5 seconds, and the Oldsmobile Cutlass could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in 7.3 seconds.
Styling
The 1968-1972 GM A-body cars were also known for their styling. The Chevelle SS and Pontiac GTO were particularly distinctive, with their aggressive front end designs and wide tires. The Buick Skylark and Oldsmobile Cutlass were more conservative in their styling, but they were still attractive cars.
Legacy
The 1968-1972 GM A-body cars are considered to be some of the most iconic muscle cars of all time. They were popular for their performance, styling, and affordability. Today, these cars are still popular among collectors and enthusiasts.
