1998 GMC Safari Cargo Review
1998 GMC Safari Cargo Review

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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Big inside but small outside. Torquey V-6 engine. Dual airbags. Standard ABS. Available all-wheel drive.
Cons
- Fuel economy. Aging design. Intrusive engine cover.
What’s new
New colors, a theft-deterrent system and automatic transmission refinements are the changes to the Safari.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 1998 GMC Safari Cargo SL 3dr Minivan and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.32 per gallon for regular unleaded in Virginia.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Virginia
$249/mo
Safari Cargo SL
vs
$218/mo
Avg. Large Minivan
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.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 1998 GMC Safari Cargo.
5 star(100%)
4 star(0%)
3 star(0%)
2 star(0%)
1 star(0%)
2 reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
4.63 out of 5 stars
very good van
HCollins, 12/03/2007
1998 GMC Safari Cargo SL 3dr Minivan
4.6L 6cly is super on gas mileage up to 26 miles per gallon. slide open doors gives excellent access to all three seat rows. Comfort seating for 8 passegners. Double dutch doors in rear provide easy access for cargo and easy seat removal if additional hauling is needed.
5 out of 5 stars
a great work van
Zappa, 04/27/2008
1993 GMC Safari Cargo 3dr Ext Minivan
i paid a 1000 for this car i have put maybe 300 on it for repairs, i am a locksmith so i do about 200 to 250 miles A DAY and this car is amazing. it handle a lot of cargo, i love this car, with fuel prices i am just looking for a smaller car :) . if you can buy this car you will be so happy you did.
We have a limited number of reviews for the 1998 GMC Safari Cargo, so we've included reviews for other years of the Safari Cargo since its last redesign.
Features & Specs
- Base MSRP
- N/A
- MPG & Fuel
- 14 City / 20 Hwy / 16 Combined
- Fuel Tank Capacity: 25.0 gal. capacity
- Drivetrain
- Type: rear wheel drive
- Transmission: 4-speed automatic
- Engine
- V6 cylinder
- Horsepower: 190 hp @ 4,400 rpm
- Torque: 250 lb-ft @ 2,800 rpm
- Dimensions
- Length: 189.8 in. / Height: 75.0 in.
- Overall Width without Mirrors: 77.5 in.
- Curb Weight: 3,887 lbs.
Safety
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver3 / 5Passenger3 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriverNot RatedPassengerNot Rated
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRolloverNot RatedDynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Side Impact TestNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintNot Tested
- IIHS Small Overlap Front TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front TestPoor
More about the 1998 GMC Safari Cargo
Used 1998 GMC Safari Cargo Overview
The Used 1998 GMC Safari Cargo is offered in the following submodels: Safari Cargo Minivan. Available styles include SL 3dr Minivan, and SL 3dr Minivan AWD. The Used 1998 GMC Safari Cargo comes with rear wheel drive, and all wheel drive. Available transmissions include: 4-speed automatic.
What's a good price on a Used 1998 GMC Safari Cargo?
Shop with Edmunds for perks and special offers on used cars, trucks, and SUVs near Ashburn, VA. Doing so could save you hundreds or thousands of dollars. Edmunds also provides consumer-driven dealership sales and service reviews to help you make informed decisions about what cars to buy and where to buy them.
Which used 1998 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) 1998 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 1998 GMC Safari Cargo.
Can't find a used 1998 GMC Safari Cargos you want in your area? Consider a broader search.
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Should I lease or buy a 1998 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.
Check out GMC lease specials
Check out GMC Safari Cargo lease specials
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