The 1998 AM General Hummer may not be the most beautiful SUV and off-roading machine on the market, but it’s a military-inspired icon. Like most Humvees designed for military use, this impressive vehicle transitioned to civilian streets and brought exceptional offroad capabilities with its presence. The Hummer is rugged, powerful, and has high ground clearance, which is good for anyone looking for off-road vehicles. This review will explore the features, performance, and legacy of the 1998 AM General Hummer, highlighting what makes it stand out in the SUV market of its time.
The AM General Hummer’s past is as intriguing as its design, which was rooted deeply in military tradition before the Hummer made its way to civilian markets. It was conceived in the late 1970s following a directive from the U.S. Army for a new High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV). The military men called it the Humvee or Hummer because of how tricky the abbreviation HMMWV was. The Humvee served dutifully; by 1992, a civilian version debuted as the Hummer 1. This release began the Hummer's evolution into the garage of civilians. Now, the old generation Hummer has been replaced by a newer EV Hummer.
If you pop the 1998 AM General Hummer’s hood, you’ll find the familiar 6.5-liter V8 turbo diesel engine. The engine churns out 195 horsepower and a torque output of 430 lb-ft. Surprisingly, this engine allows the Hummer to tow up to 8,200 lbs while easily moving its over 6800 lbs body around. The 1998 Hummer is a practical choice for hauling heavy loads without compromising performance. The fuel tank capacity is a substantial 42 gallons, and this gives you a decent range, considering that the Hummer gets abysmal gas mileage. Coupled with a 4-speed automatic transmission, the Hummer maintains optimal power delivery and efficiency across varied terrains.
Inside the 1998 AM General Hummer, you'll likely not find many of the nice creature comforts. But you’ll get excellent headroom and legroom, thanks to the Hummers size. The spacious seating comfortably accommodates up to four adults - this is one area where we have a grouse with the Humvee. You can enjoy features such as air conditioning, power windows, and a premium audio system, even as the interior boasts a range of practical storage solutions. Large door pockets, a voluminous center console, and strategically placed cup holders ensure all essential items are within easy reach. You won’t find luxury-grade materials on interior surfaces because the Hummer wasn’t designed for luxury. Upholstery options include durable fabrics and resilient leather materials. Additional features like heated seats and a tilt steering wheel are there to improve your driving comfort.
With its bold, rugged exterior, the 1998 Hummer is the very definition of presence and practicality. Its design language is unapologetically robust and boxy, a nod to its military antecedents. The Hummer features a high ground clearance, wide stance, and durable materials that speak to its off-road. Large off-road tires, an unmistakable grille, and reinforced panels add to its physique. Its approach angle of 72 degrees, departure angle of 37.5 degrees, and ground clearance of approximately 16 inches enhance its off-road prowess. You’ll always be able to navigate obstacles with ease. The body is constructed with durable, rust-resistant materials that withstand harsh conditions. If you’re planning an overland trip far into the trails, getting the 1998 Hummer can be a wise choice over other vehicles. The Hummer also boasts expansive windows and large side mirrors to improve visibility. Accessories such as roof racks and optional winches provide additional utility. Additionally, its large, all-terrain tires are designed to provide superior grip and shock absorption. Underneath it, there are protectors and skid plates.
While the Hummer's primary charm is its ruggedness, it lacks modern technological touches. Inside, you’ll find an easy-to-use sound system and controls for climate and vehicle management. On the outside, the 1998 model includes fog lamps and towing hardware to make navigating offroad easy. Under the hood, advancements like an enhanced cooling system and even an efficient turbocharger contribute to the engine's reliability and performance.
As with any iconic vehicle, market prices for a used 1998 AM General Hummer vary significantly based on condition, mileage, and specific modifications or restorations. Generally, you can expect prices between $25,000 and $45,000, but well-maintained models with lower mileage can command higher prices. Consider the long-term investments in maintenance and potential modifications if you need to do those on after you’ve purchased the Humvee.
Revving up in a 1998 AM General Hummer is fun and intimidating, especially for first-time Hummer drivers. You'll have a great time behind the wheel if you can handle the Hummer’s weight, gas-guzzling habits, and sparse interior features. For those looking for luxury and classic cars for sale, platforms like Exotic Car Trader are there to help. You can easily buy and sell cars there, ensuring that your automotive trade journey is smooth. And you can list your car for sale in a few steps.
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