History of GMC Motorhome (‘72-78)

[taylorbob1]

This is an interesting read for those of you who remember the futuristic looking GMC front-wheel drive RV in the mid-1970’s.
It was built & sold before it’s time.
Using an Oldsmobile Toronado/Cadillac El Dorado front wheel drive 455 cubic inch V8, the rig was aerodynamic, achieved double digit mpg, and drove like a long limo.
But as the article documents, manufacturing abruptly ended when GM moved to smaller, more fuel efficient cars.

GMC Motorhome: the untold story

[Squerly]

Complete with shag carpet, plaid furniture coverings and 2 air conditioners. There are a couple here in town but I've never seen them move. Neat link taylorbob1

[Chance]

I know a man who bought one just like the top picture, and is restoring and updating. It was a great design, but had two features I’m not crazy about. First is that there’s very little outside storage compared to modern motorhomes. The second is that driver and passenger seats are significantly higher (two steps) above rest of motorhome floor. That affects floorplan function significantly.

In many ways the motorhome feels like an oversized van. Except that at 8-ft wide and 26-ft long it’s so much roomier. Now that everything is out of it, it’s even more noticeable. It’s a really cool project.

[taylorbob1]

Here’s one of the many available Youtube videos that discusses the history...

https://www.youtube.com - GMC motorhome

I was a teenager then so I didn’t remember that Revcon & others tried to copy the front-wheel drive design

[taylorbob1]

Fully restored to original condition, kept inside a heated garage.
This one should probably be sold at a Barrett-Jackson Auction.

[Chance]

GM was not first with FWD motorhome design.

[taylorbob1]

Probably should have named this thread “The History of Motorhomes”.

Anywho...Chance is correct.
The first front-wheel drive RV looks to be Cortez.

Cortez motorhome -1963

[Mr Sunshine]

A guy I knew bought a GMC that a traveling band had outfitted with bunks. and painted it yellow. He stripped it inside and out, completely redid the interior with new cabinets, carpet, appliances and upholstery. He built a big trailer for behind it and painted both to match. Took a trip or two and sold it all!

[Chance]

Originally Posted by taylorbob1

Probably should have named this thread “The History of Motorhomes”.

Anywho...Chance is correct.
The first front-wheel drive RV looks to be Cortez.

Cortez motorhome -1963

The Cortez was way ahead of its time in my opinion. I’ve always thought that a modern version using modern drivetrains and manufacturing could be successful.

The originals used Dodge inline-6 gas engines, were FWD, had 4 wheels like vans, low floor, great handling and ride for their time, dual front doors, etc... And who can forget astronauts getting in one at Cape Canaveral.

Compared to GMC they didn’t look as good or streamlined, but I like their size better, and vertical walls make them more practical to RV use. Also, the GMC’s distinctive rear axles had some issues, and honestly would not be needed today for same vehicle weight.

[powerboatr]

they were and still are cool looking rigs.