Do you know that beloved actor Tom Hanks has a younger brother named Jim who looks and sounds a lot like him? In fact, Jim Hanks is so like Tom that he’s been the voice of the “Toy Story” character Woody in certain spin-offs and video games. A similar dynamic exists in the car world, in which one model (such as the Ford Mustang) has a sibling that’s visually similar but less known (the 1979-1986 Mercury Capri). Our Pick of the Day is another example. You can find this restored 1972 GMC Jimmy 4×4 listed on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Carrollton, Texas. It comes with a black bikini top, white hardtop, build book, Protect-O-Plate, and original owners manual.
It’s been almost 60 years since the original Chevrolet Blazer come out as a 1969 model, but people still love its handsome looks, brawny presence, and off-road capabilities. Along with the old-school Ford Bronco, Jeep Wagoneer/Grand Wagoneer, Toyota Land Cruiser, and International Harvester Scout, it’s one of the go-tos for people looking for a classic SUV.
But the K5 wasn’t GM’s only rough-and-tough, body-on-frame, two-door adventure vehicle. Starting with the 1970 model year, GMC began offering its version of the Blazer known as the Jimmy, which had the same general styling as GMC’s pickup, particularly the four-quadrant grille and quad headlights. The 1972 Jimmy was available with a soft top or a textured hardtop, both of which were removable for open-air driving. Buyers could opt for two- or four-wheel drive and their choice of inline-six or Invader V-8 power.
Many classic SUVs get restored so that a whole new generation of fans can enjoy them. Luckily, this one received the same kind of treatment that’s applied to so many first-gen Broncos and Blazers, undergoing a frame-off restoration completed in 2023. The body was equipped with fresh chrome and refinished in the attractive combination of Hugger Orange with woodgrain accent striping, which makes the 17-inch white wheels and BFGoodrich all-terrain tires even more noticeable. What’s harder to see are the Dana 44 front differential, highway-geared GM 12-bolt rear differential, and Bilstein shocks that get this Jimmy down the road and over nature’s obstacles.
According to the selling dealer, “Inside, the Jimmy features a striking houndstooth interior complemented by a center console and modern audio upgrades, including a Bluetooth-enabled Custom Autosound radio and professionally installed sound system. The restored white removable hardtop and new 4-point roll bar complete the look.” Power steering and Classic Performance Products power front disc brakes add convenience while the A/C, which was converted to R134a, keeps the cabin cool on days when it’s too hot to take the top off.
Instead of being restored, the previous engine was replaced with a 350ci V-8 crate engine. Upgrades to that include an Edelbrock Performer EPS intake manifold, Edelbrock four-barrel carburetor, and MSD HEI ignition system with upgraded wiring. A TH350 three-speed automatic with a Hayden cooler and a dual-range transfer case send power to the rear or all four wheels.
If you’re in the market for a handsome, rugged GM rig that isn’t a K5 Blazer, you can buy this 1972 GMC Jimmy 4×4 for $105,990. But just know that someone passing you in the opposite direction or watching from a distance as you make your way up a trail may think it’s a Blazer anyway.
Click here to view this Pick of the Day on ClassicCars.com
