See main article: List of GM platforms.
| 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.
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: