1997 GMC Sierra C1500 SL
69k Miles | 5.0L V8 | Rebuilt Automatic | 3.73 Posi | QA1 Suspension | Big Brakes
This 1997 GMC Sierra C1500 SL is a seriously well-built GMT400 that keeps the clean, classic single-cab look while adding the right performance upgrades in all the right places. Finished in Emerald Green Metallic over Gray cloth, this regular-cab, rear-wheel-drive short-bed truck has the stance, hardware, and documentation to back up its appearance.
Power comes from the factory 5.0-liter V8, now paired with a Black Bear Performance 0411 PCM swap kit, EFILive AutoCal V3 tuning module, Volant cold-air intake, and a custom-fabricated stainless header-back exhaust with Hooker stainless long-tube headers. The transmission has been rebuilt and fitted with a shift kit, while the rear has been upgraded with an Eaton Positraction limited-slip, 3.73 straight-cut gears, and Moser 30-spline axles and studs. Add in QA1 suspension, React drop spindles, Borgeson steering, and front/rear big brakes, and this is far more than just a clean OBS truck.
Highlights
69k original miles shown
5.0L V8
Rebuilt 4-speed automatic with shift kit
Black Bear Performance 0411 PCM swap
EFILive AutoCal V3 tuning module
Volant cold-air intake
Hooker stainless long-tube headers
Custom stainless header-back exhaust
Eaton Positraction limited-slip
3.73 straight-cut gears
Moser 30-spline axle shafts and studs
QA1 Level 2 handling kit with coilovers
React Suspension 2-inch drop spindles
Pro Performance big brake kits
Borgeson steering box and shaft
20x8 / 20x10 American Racing Torq Thrust wheels
Clean Carfax
Original window sticker, owner's manual, and paperwork
Exterior
Finished in Emerald Green Metallic, this Sierra presents exactly how a clean OBS GMC should - straight, clean, and understated, but with a much more aggressive stance than stock. The bright trim and bumpers contrast nicely with the deep green paint, and the single-cab short-bed proportions give it the look everyone wants.
The truck is equipped with a Wideside bed fitted with a black bed mat, and it also features an LS Fabrication Tailgate Saver gas strut kit for a cleaner, more functional tailgate setup. According to the documentation provided, the rear bumper was replaced in 2021, while later work included paintless dent repair, front bumper trim replacement, front bumper buffing, tailgate linkage replacement, and rear bumper adjustment. The headlights and taillights have also been replaced.
Wheels & Stance
This GMC sits right. It rides on custom American Racing Torq Thrust wheels measuring:
20x8 front
20x10 rear
Wrapped in:
245/45ZR20 front tires
295/40ZR20 rear tires
The combination gives the truck a killer stance without looking overdone. Supporting that look is a properly upgraded suspension setup featuring:
QA1 Level 2 handling kit with coilovers
React Suspension 2-inch drop spindles
Relocated struts
Front track bar
QA1 1.25-inch rear anti-roll bar
Interior
Inside, the truck keeps a clean, factory-style look with a Gray cloth bench seat and tidy original-style trim. It is a straightforward, comfortable OBS interior with the features you actually want:
Air conditioning
Cruise control
Factory AM/FM/cassette stereo
The cabin presents honestly and cleanly, and the truck was also fitted with billet aluminum door strikes in 2023. The odometer shows 69k miles, with approximately 3k added by the current owner.
Engine & Drivetrain
The 5.0L V8 has been thoughtfully upgraded for stronger performance and better response while keeping the truck street-friendly. Underhood features include:
Volant cold-air intake
Black Bear Performance 0411 PCM swap kit
EFILive AutoCal V3 tuning module
Hooker stainless-steel long-tube headers
Custom-fabricated stainless header-back exhaust
Vibrant Performance resonator
Aftermarket muffler
Recent prep work for sale included:
Oil change
New crankshaft position sensor
New fuel pump
New fuel sending unit
Out back, the drivetrain has been substantially strengthened with:
Rebuilt 4-speed automatic
Shift kit
Eaton Positraction limited-slip differential
New straight-cut 3.73 gears
Moser 30-spline axle shafts
Moser studs
Rear crossmember brace
Ladder bars
Per the selling dealer, the differential was rebuilt to support up to 550 wheel horsepower.
Steering & Brakes
This truck does not just look better than stock - it is built to drive better too. Upgrades include:
Borgeson power steering box
Borgeson steering shaft
Pro Performance front and rear big brake kits
14-inch drilled/slotted front rotors
13-inch drilled/slotted rear rotors
A replacement brake master cylinder was installed in March 2023, and the parking brake cable was repaired in December 2025. A set of uninstalled Baer Brakes Tracker adjustable tie-rod ends will also go with the truck.
The Drive
This Sierra is the kind of OBS build that appeals to people who know what they are looking at. It has the clean look, the right color, the right wheel fitment, and a serious list of upgrades underneath. It is not just lowered for looks - it has real suspension, steering, rear-end, and braking upgrades that separate it from the average single-cab truck.
If you have been looking for a well-sorted GMT400 that combines low-mile appeal, documentation, tasteful modifications, and true performance-minded hardware, this 1997 GMC Sierra C1500 SL is a very strong piece.
- Fuel
- Body Types
- Exterior ColourGreen Metallic
- Number of doors
- Interior ColourGraphite
- VIN Code1GTEC14MXVZ521486
