1992 GMC Typhoon – American '90s Rocket in SUV Form, 500+ HP and Full of Attitude

Basic Info and History

This isn’t just any SUV. This is a GMC Typhoon – one of the most unexpected performance moves in automotive history. When GMC launched the Typhoon in the early '90s, they took a fairly ordinary Jimmy, dropped in a turbocharged V6, added all-wheel drive, a sport-tuned suspension, and gave it more attitude than most sports cars of its era. The result? A car that could beat a Ferrari 348 in a 0–60 sprint.

This particular example is an import and has had 16 registered users according to the Swedish Transport Agency. The current owner is the second since the car was modified and had been keeping an eye on it for years before buying – because it’s rare to find a Typhoon in this kind of condition.

The exterior is visually stock – no wings, no roof rack, and the fender flares are present (the front right has a cracked mounting point). The rear wiper has been removed for a cleaner look. Minor cosmetic blemishes are present, as expected after 33 years, but overall, the condition is very good for the type.

Equipment and Upgrades

Under the surface, though, things have changed – seriously changed. The engine has been upgraded by a previous owner and now delivers around 500 horsepower, but it’s built to handle up to 800 hp with a boost increase. This is a serious build with quality parts throughout:

1. Larger turbo, aftermarket heads, camshaft, injectors, intake
2. Built transmission with high-stall converter
3. Upgraded radiator, intercooler, electric fans
4. Methanol injection system, MSD ignition
5. Custom exhaust system from front to rear
6. Corvette rear brakes
7. Rear air suspension removed, replaced with coils
8. AGM battery
9. Performance air filter

Original parts (cam, heads, turbo, intercooler, etc.) are included.

The interior is largely untouched from the factory – except for a touchscreen stereo and pillar-mounted gauges. The steering wheel and dashboard have been refurbished by Colorglo and are in excellent condition.

Condition

The body shows normal wear for its age: a few small dents, paint cracks, minor rust bloom on the A-pillar, and some dull clear coat on the roof. Nothing that detracts from the overall impression, and the car was treated with Ditec sealant about five years ago.

The interior is in very good condition. The right floor trim is missing, glovebox latch is broken, and a few buttons are faded – nothing unusual or serious. The headliner is intact, though the rear dome light cover is missing. The AC doesn’t work, and the power windows are slow, but otherwise, the car functions as it should.

Tires have 4 mm tread in front, 2 mm in the rear. The wheels are undamaged.

Service History

Last serviced in June 2023 – engine oil and filter changed, cooling system flushed before winter storage. Parts for upcoming service (transmission and differentials) are included. The car is currently roadworthy and will be inspected before the auction starts, weather permitting.

A USB drive with build photos of the engine and transmission is included. No filled-out service book, but the build is well-documented.

Summary

The GMC Typhoon is a rare, raw, and wildly fun performance machine – it’s as if someone at GM lost their mind and decided to build a dragster out of an SUV, and the result was brilliant. This car isn’t for everyone – but for the right person, it’s a dream build. Power, attitude, and history in one.

It has the grunt to leave modern cars behind, the sound to wake neighbors three blocks away, and that unmistakable ‘90s aura that’s only getting more desirable.

Looking for something that stands out on the street, at meets, and in the garage? Then it’s time to hit the button.