Editor's note: Heading into the new century, we felt compelled to take a look back at what will undoubtedly be one of the 20th century's biggest contributions to daily life-the automobile. Of course, Super Chevy looks at the history of the automobile through the eyes of the Chevrolet enthusiast. The following is the ninth in a series that will run throughout the year 2000 and cover the highlights of Chevrolet-from the creation of a company at a time when 270 other companies were vying for buyers of new automobiles, to the present day, when the competition is limited to just a handful of serious automobile makers. Much of the information is taken straight from Chevrolet sources, and some will be from the pages of this magazine's more than 25 years as "The # 1 Chevrolet Enthusiast's Magazine."
A Chevrolet and America moved into the '90s, there were dramatic changes on the horizon. Suddenly, bigger was not necessarily better; the word "green" came to mean more than just the color of money; and safety became an increasingly important part of America's automotive purchase decisions.
Despite the changing times, America's love of sports cars did not waver, and Chevrolet introduced the Corvette ZR-1 in 1990. Designed in a cooperative effort between General Motors and Lotus, the LT5 V-8 engine sported four cams and 32 valves, producing 375 hp. Later modifications brought the hp rating up to an incredible 405 hp. An all-new convex rear fascia and quad rectangular taillamps were incorporated into the exterior design of the ZR-1, and into the standard Corvette Coupe the following year.
An all-new Caprice Classic was also unveiled as a '91 model, which featured contemporary aero styling that was unique in a market full of rectangular "luxury boats." With a full frame and rear-wheel drive, Caprice was offered with a standard V-6 or optional 305-cid V-8 engine. Because of its unique combination of performance and spaciousness, Caprice also became the vehicle of choice for many law enforcement agencies and taxicab companies across America.
Chevy Truck made some important contributions in 1990 as well, with the introduction of the 454 SS Pickup, featuring big-block V-8 power, and the family-oriented Lumina APV minivan.
Under the hood of the 454 "SS" was a 454-cid Mark V big-block V-8... hence, the name. Inside, the cab featured leather seating, full instrumentation, and a variety of luxury features. This was one significant step toward today's trend of rugged, hardworking trucks with car-like interior comfort.
Lumina APV was the first true Chevy minivan. Not only did it sport a unique appearance and design, it offered minivan room and versatility coupled with a high degree of passenger comfort. Renamed Lumina Minivan in the '95 model year, it remained a key offering for Chevrolet right up until 1996, its last year of production.
Chevrolet began 1991 by taking the coveted Motor Trend Car of the Year award with the Caprice Classic LTZ. Caprice Classic Wagon was introduced at this time, rounding out the Chevrolet fullsize car lineup. Yet another new '91 Chevrolet introduction was Cavalier RS Convertible, a sportier, topless version of the strong-selling coupe that provided a more affordable alternative to the Z24 convertible.
"Like A Rock," one of the most successful Chevrolet advertising campaigns to date, first hit American TV airwaves in 1991. Backed by the vocals of popular contemporary rock and roll star Bob Seger, the Like A Rock campaign equated the toughness and reliability of Chevy Trucks to the dedicated workers of America. This advertising theme struck a chord with the American worker, as truck sales continued to be strong. It also helped re-inforce the "Most Dependable, Longest-Lasting" claim, proven by the fact that more Chevy Trucks were still on the job than any other brand.
Beretta and Corsica both received standard driver air bags in 1991, a significant step forward in safety. Air bags gained monumental popularity as a safety device and, by government mandate, these "Supplemental Inflatable Restraints" would be required in all passenger cars by 1997.
Also in 1991, Chevy Truck expanded its sport utility vehicle line with the addition of new S-10 Blazer four-door models, which quickly became the most popular Blazer offerings.