In 1988, the Chevrolet K5 Blazer was a seasoned adventurer, and unlike most cars in its segment, it was the go-to choice for many drivers for daily driving and off-roading. Power came in one main flavor for the 1988 model year: a standard 5.7L V8 with Throttle Body Injection. This engine offered enough grunt and made the Blazer a capable tow vehicle and a blast on the open road, though fuel efficiency wasn't its strong suit. Here are some other things you should know about the K5 Blazer.
The 1988 Chevrolet K5 Blazer was part of the second generation of these popular SUVs, which had been carving a path since 1973. By 1988, the K5 Blazer was nearing the end of its production run, set to be replaced by a more modern design in 1992. While the boxy design remained a signature feature, in 1988, there was a cosmetic update that mirrored the look of the new Chevrolet C/K pickup trucks. This wasn't the only change, as, under the hood, GM temporarily switched the designation from "C/K" to "R/V" to avoid confusion with the incoming GMT400 platform. Engine options in 1988 were the 5.7L V8 with Throttle Body Injection (TBI). This engine cranked out a respectable 213 horsepower, transforming the K5 Blazer into a capable tow vehicle and a fun companion for off-road adventures or highway cruising. While fuel efficiency wasn't a priority back then, the V8's power came at the expense of frequent trips to the gas pump. The 1988 model year also offered a splash of new color options, including Forest Green Metallic, Light Mesa Brown Metallic, Dark Mesa Brown Metallic, and Bright Blue Metallic. Prices varied depending on options and drivetrain but generally fell between $12,000 and $18,000 when adjusted for inflation. This positioned the K5 Blazer as a relatively affordable option, especially compared to some luxury-oriented competitors.
In 1988, the Chevrolet K5 Blazer offered a standard 5.7-liter V8 engine with Throttle Body Injection (TBI). This engine boasted a significant jump in power, delivering about 210 horsepower that greatly transformed the driving experience. Merging onto highways became a breeze, and tackling off-road trails felt effortless with the extra grunt. Most of the K5 Blazer’s engines were thirsty, especially the V8, which could be expected to deliver mileage in the single digits during city driving. Interestingly, there wasn't a diesel engine option for the 1988 Chevrolet K5 Blazer. General Motors phased out the diesel option for the Blazer in 1987. Previously, from 1982 to 1987, Chevrolet offered the K5 Blazer with a 6.2L Detroit Diesel V8 engine. This diesel engine was known for its immense torque, making it a fantastic choice for heavy-duty towing and serious off-road adventures. However, it also had some drawbacks. Compared to the gasoline engines, the diesel was considerably less powerful in terms of horsepower, typically offering around 130 horsepower.
While it lacked the bells and whistles of modern SUVs, the 1988 Chevrolet K5 Blazer's interior offered a comfortable and surprisingly spacious environment for passengers and cargo. The seats were typically upholstered in vinyl or cloth. While not the most luxurious materials, they were durable and easy to clean. Seating configurations varied depending on the model, with options for bench or bucket seats in the front and a folding bench seat in the rear. Legroom and headroom were generous in both rows, making the Blazer a comfortable choice for long road trips or hauling passengers. Storage options were plentiful, with a large center console, a good-sized glove box, and map pockets behind the front seats. Cargo space was impressive, especially with the rear seats folded down, offering ample room for camping gear, sporting equipment, etc. Material quality is as you’d expect - okay. Plastics were a prominent feature; some might find them cheap-looking by modern standards. However, the build quality was generally good, and the interior held up well to wear and tear, a crucial factor for a vehicle designed for adventure.
The 1988 Chevrolet K5 Blazer sported a boxy silhouette that was already symbolic. Its design resulted in a flat hood, a tall upright stance, and a generous ground clearance. This boxy shape offered excellent headroom and legroom for passengers, and the large cargo area made it a capable hauler. Chrome accents adorned the grille, bumpers, and window trim, adding a touch of shine to the otherwise utilitarian exterior. While some might find the design dated by modern standards, it possessed a rugged charm that resonated with those seeking a no-nonsense off-road companion. The Blazer was available in two-door or four-door configurations and catered to those who prioritized maneuverability and extra passenger space. A removable hardtop offered an open-air experience, perfect for sunny days and outdoor adventures.
The 1988 Chevrolet K5 Blazer doesn't boast the technological bells and whistles found in modern SUVs. Inside, you'll find a fairly spartan dashboard layout devoid of flashy features. Manual controls dominate, governing the climate system, audio (likely a cassette player or AM/FM radio), and airflow. Instrumentation is basic, offering essential readouts like speed, fuel level, and engine temperature. Luxury features are non-existent because of the era in which the Blazer was made, with power windows and locks being rare options. However, some creature comforts like air conditioning and cruise control were available.
In today's market, expect a range of roughly $5,000 to $20,000. Budget-minded shoppers might find project vehicles or Blazers needing restoration work closer to the lower end of this spectrum. You can find Blazers of different model years in pristine condition listed on Exotic Car Trader.
The 1988 K5 Blazer retains the rugged capability, comfortable cruising, and a touch of boxy charm that resonates with enthusiasts today. While it lacks modern vehicles' technological sophistication and fuel efficiency, it’s still a worthy vintage SUV for anyone who wants to purchase a unit. If the 1988 K5 Blazer piques your interest or you crave something unique, Exotic Car Trader offers a haven for buying and selling everything exotic. From high-octane performance machines to luxurious status symbols, Exotic Car Trader also connects you with buyers for your extraordinary automobiles.
Exotic Car Trader is the fastest growing marketplace built specifically for automotive enthusiasts. Click below to learn how you can sell your car with us.
LEARN MORE
