3/24/20 88/100 1988 GMC Sierra Wrecker

Matchbox has made a lot of different tow trucks over the years, but none has been used as much as this GMC Wrecker that debut in 1988.  Now for some clarity: despite the release of the new 1988 Chevy and GMC full-size pickups that year the new design was only for the 1500 series as the 2500-3500 heavy duty and SUV’s retained the old squarebody look until 1991; this tow truck is likely based on a regular cab 3500 chassis cab.  I say this because the front grille with GMC logo and square quad headlights looks the same on both the new and old GMC pickups.  To add to the tow truck look is a beefy front bumper with bars to push vehicles, diamond plate running boards, roof lights, and a rear boon that can lower with the press of the arm and retract back when released.  The hook is moveable (at least until 2018) and can attach to many vehicles ‘with some sort of recess on the base to latch onto.’ if not the vehicle can easily slide off the hood.  Due to the working boon mechanism, the interior is missing and the base is plastic and could use some metal to add some heft to the casting.  This green version sports the Ron’s towing as a carryover deco from the year before and later runs also replace the 8-spoke truck wheels with the new 2001 sawblade wheels.  The truck is still in use today, though the working boon has been retooled to a fixed unit.

Specifications:

· Engine: 7.4L V8 350 hp. Est.

· Transmission: 5-speed manual

· 0-60 mph: 10.0 sec. est.

· Real vehicle price: $35,000 est. 1987

Rating:  4 out of 5 stars