General Motors L platform

GM L platform
1994 Chevrolet Beretta Z26
Overview
ManufacturerGeneral Motors
Also calledL-body
L car
Production1987–1996
Body and chassis
ClassCompact (C) platform
LayoutFF layout
Body style(s)2-door coupe
4-door sedan
5-door hatchback
VehiclesChevrolet Beretta
Chevrolet Corsica
Pontiac Tempest
RelatedGM N platform
GM J platform
Powertrain
Engine(s)122 I4
Quad-4 I4
60° V6
Transmission(s)3-speed 3T40 automatic
4-speed 4T40-E automatic
4-speed 4T60-E automatic
5-speed Getrag 282 manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase103.4 in (2,626 mm)
Chronology
PredecessorGM X platform (FWD)
Successor2nd generation GM N Platform

The General Motors L platform (commonly called the L-body or L car) was a front-wheel-drive compact car automotive platform that was produced from 1987 through 1996.

The L platform was very similar to the GM N platform; however, the first-generation N-cars were engineered by Oldsmobile, while the L-cars were engineered by Chevrolet. The L platform used a twist-beam rear suspension and MacPherson struts in the front and featured a 103.4 in (263 cm) wheelbase. Both platforms were used to replace the GM X platform on which the Citation, among others, were based. GM also used a different L platform for the all-wheel-drive versions of the Chevrolet Astro/GMC Safari mid-size vans.

Canadian Pontiac Tempest

Pontiac sold its own version of the L-body in Canada only. It was marketed as the Tempest from 1987 to 1991. This model featured a unique grill and tail lamps (which were later used on the updated Corsica). This model was dropped after 1991, being replaced by the new 1992 Grand Am sedan.

The L-car lasted just one generation, with the nameplates being retired and replaced by the N-body Chevrolet Malibu.

This platform was the basis for the following vehicles:

See also

References

  1. ^ "History of the Beretta and Model Info". beretta.net. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  2. ^ Ernst, Kurt (2013-11-25). "Lost Cars of the 1980s - Chevrolet Beretta GTU". hemmings.com. Archived from the original on 2023-11-02. Retrieved 2024-11-13.
  3. ^ "Tempest". carsandracingstuff.com. Retrieved 2024-11-13.