General Motors L platform explained

GM L platform
Aka:L-body
L car
Manufacturer:General Motors
Production:1987 - 1996
Class:Compact (C) platform
Predecessor:GM X platform (FWD)
Successor:2nd generation GM N Platform
Body Style:2-door coupe
4-door sedan
5-door hatchback
Layout:FF layout
Engine:122 I4
Quad-4 I4
60° V6
Transmission:3-speed 3T40 automatic
4-speed 4T40-E automatic
4-speed 4T60-E automatic
5-speed Getrag 282 manual
Wheelbase:103.40NaN0
Related:GM N platform
GM J platform
Vehicles:Chevrolet Beretta
Chevrolet Corsica
Pontiac Tempest

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 103.4inches 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

Notes and References

  1. Web site: History of the Beretta and Model Info. 2024-11-13 . beretta.net .
  2. Web site: Lost Cars of the 1980s - Chevrolet Beretta GTU. Kurt . Ernst. 2024-11-13. 2013-11-25. hemmings.com. 2023-11-02. https://web.archive.org/web/20231102232805/https://www.hemmings.com/stories/2013/11/25/lost-cars-of-the-1980s-chevrolet-beretta-gtu.
  3. Web site: Tempest. 2024-11-13 . carsandracingstuff.com .