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1997 GMC Safari Cargo Review

Pros & Cons

  • Big inside but small outside, torquey V-6 engine, dual airbags, standard ABS, available all-wheel drive
  • Fuel economy, aging design, intrusive engine cover
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GMC Safari Cargo for Sale
2005
2004
2003
2002
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List Price Estimate
$1,281 - $2,229
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Vehicle overview

Choosing between a Chevrolet Astro and a GMC Safari is more a matter of image than necessity. Do you want to see Chevrolet's badge every time you approach? Or would it be viscerally satisfying to face those bold "GMC" block letters, with their implication, as brand managers hope, of upscale luxury?

Tangible differences between the two are modest -- a fact that's true of most Chevrolet and GMC cousins. Once you've decided that a rear-drive (or all-wheel-drive) General Motors midsize van is the rational choice, you'll likely be satisfied with either one.Because of their traditional-type full-frame construction and rear-drive layout, Safaris are most adept at heavy hauling and burly trailer towing. Not everyone will relish the trucklike ride over harsh surfaces, but it's not bad at all when the highway smoothes out. Don't expect top-notch fuel mileage, though.

Dual airbags are housed in an artfully styled dashboard, and antilock brakes are standard. For added safety and visibility, daytime running lights blaze the trail. For 1998, a PassLock theft deterrent system has been added to the Safari.

GM's 4300 Vortec V6 is standard, sending 190 horsepower to an electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission. Long-life engine coolant and 100,000-mile spark plugs help keep maintenance costs to a minimum. This year brings transmission refinements that result in improved fuel economy, better shift quality and increased reliability.

The Safari Cargo comes in just one trim level. Basic items like air conditioning, an AM/FM stereo and bucket seats are standard. Optional equipment included convenience features like a tilt steering wheel, keyless entry and power windows and locks. Whether rear-drive or running full-time all-wheel drive, the Safari Cargo provides a great alternative to gas guzzling full-size vans. If you're looking for a medium-size work vehicle that's big enough to get the job done yet still easy-to-drive and live with the Safari is a solid choice.

1997 Highlights

Illuminated entry and daytime running lights debut this year, along with a couple of new colors and automatic transmission improvements. Speed-sensitive power steering makes parking easier.

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Features & Specs

SL 3dr Minivan AWD
MPG
15 city / 20 hwy
Seats 0
4-speed automatic
Gas
190 hp @ 4400 rpm
SL 3dr Minivan
MPG
15 city / 21 hwy
Seats 0
4-speed automatic
Gas
190 hp @ 4400 rpm
See all Used 1997 GMC Safari Cargo features & specs

Safety

NHTSA Overall Rating

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
  • Frontal Barrier Crash Rating
    OverallNot Rated
    Driver3 / 5
    Passenger3 / 5
  • Side Crash Rating
    OverallNot Rated
  • Side Barrier Rating
    OverallNot Rated
    DriverNot Rated
    PassengerNot Rated
  • Combined Side Barrier & Pole Ratings
    Front SeatNot Rated
    Back SeatNot Rated
  • Rollover
    RolloverNot Rated
    Dynamic Test ResultNo Tip
    Risk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
  • Side Impact Test
    Not Tested
  • Roof Strength Test
    Not Tested
  • Rear Crash Protection / Head Restraint
    Not Tested
  • IIHS Small Overlap Front Test
    Not Tested
  • Moderate Overlap Front Test
    Poor
More about the 1997 GMC Safari Cargo

Used 1997 GMC Safari Cargo Overview

The Used 1997 GMC Safari Cargo is offered in the following submodels: Safari Cargo Minivan. Available styles include SL 3dr Minivan AWD, and SL 3dr Minivan.

What's a good price on a Used 1997 GMC Safari Cargo?

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Which used 1997 GMC Safari Cargos are available in my area?

Shop Edmunds' car, SUV, and truck listings of over 6 million vehicles to find a cheap new, used, or certified pre-owned (CPO) 1997 GMC Safari Cargo for sale near. Simply research the type of car you're interested in and then select a used car from our massive database to find cheap prew-owned vehicles for sale near you. Once you have identified a used vehicle you're interested in, check the AutoCheck vehicle history reports, read dealer reviews, and find out what other owners paid for the Used 1997 GMC Safari Cargo.

Can't find a used 1997 GMC Safari Cargos you want in your area? Consider a broader search.

Find a used GMC Safari Cargo for sale - 8 great deals out of 10 listings starting at $22,336.

Find a used GMC for sale - 11 great deals out of 11 listings starting at $14,797.

Find a used certified pre-owned GMC Safari Cargo for sale - 12 great deals out of 14 listings starting at $15,428.

Find a used certified pre-owned GMC for sale - 3 great deals out of 8 listings starting at $21,614.

Should I lease or buy a 1997 GMC Safari Cargo?

Is it better to lease or buy a car? Ask most people and they'll probably tell you that car buying is the way to go. And from a financial perspective, it's true, provided you're willing to make higher monthly payments, pay off the loan in full and keep the car for a few years. Leasing, on the other hand, can be a less expensive option on a month-to-month basis. It's also good if you're someone who likes to drive a new car every three years or so.

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