Joe Chicola spent several years searching for a sixth-generation 1967–1972 GMC Suburban 4×4. One day, he found exactly what he wanted—and it’s the kind of jaw-dropping discovery vehicular dreams are made of. Not only is it a finely patinaed 1972 model, but it’s also a true barn find from Alabama. To top it off, he purchased it from the original owner. Now, the vintage GMC is Joe’s daily driver. We met Joe and photographed his rig at the 2025 Summer 4-Wheel Jamboree in Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.

Suburban Is The Oldest U.S. Vehicle Nameplate

Before we dig into Joe’s incredible 1972 GMC Suburban, we need to acknowledge the impressive history of the model. The Suburban nameplate is legendary—it’s the oldest U.S. vehicle nameplate still in production. It dates back to 1935, when GM essentially dropped a station wagon body onto a truck frame. The response from buyers was positive, and a legend was born. In 1937, GMC got its own version. Originally referred to as the Suburban Carryall, the name was eventually shortened to just Suburban. The sixth-gen Suburban featured a unique single driver-side door and two passenger-side doors. Four-wheel drive was an available factory option. This year, 2025, marks the 90th anniversary of the nameplate and its twelfth generation of production.

Small-Block V8, SM465 Transmission, NP205 Transfer Case

Joe’s Suburban is powered by a 350-cubic-inch V8. After purchasing the rig, he made a few underhood upgrades, including a swap to an Edelbrock carburetor to help increase the engine’s output. He also installed a free-flowing dual exhaust system. Bolted to the engine is an SM465 four-speed manual transmission, which is a rare combination for that model year, according to GM. Fastened to the transmission is an NP205 two-speed transfer case. This trio—the 350-cubic-inch engine, cast-iron-case SM465 transmission, and gear-driven NP205 T-case—is a formidable combination.

14-Bolt Full-Float Rear Axle, Dana 60 Front Axle

Out back is a rebuilt, disc-brake-equipped 14-bolt full-float axle. It’s fitted with an Eaton Posi limited-slip differential and a G2 Axle & Gear aluminum differential cover. Up front is a rebuilt Dana 60 axle, which sports a limited-slip differential and a G2 Axle & Gear aluminum differential cover. It also features Warn Premium manual locking hubs. Both axles have 4.10:1 gears.

Joe says the Suburban’s suspension includes a Rough Country four-inch lift, which provides room for a set of 35×12.50R17LT Interco SS-M16 tires mounted on Pro Comp Kore Series wheels.

Oozing Over Five Decades Of Patina

Outside, the Suburban’s body is oozing with the patina of a 53-year-old vehicle. Joe’s 1972 GMC Suburban is equipped with a tailgate and a flip-up rear window. Fun fact: Back in the day, the Suburban could alternatively be equipped with a pair of swing-open rear doors. Joe wisely left the paint and body untouched, but he replaced the front and rear bumpers with new units.

Simplicity Reigns Inside

Inside, the Suburban retains the simplicity of its era. It sports factory gauges, vinyl-covered bench seats, and an AM radio. Modifications are minimal and include an aftermarket steering wheel and a charge port for portable electronics.

Upgrades Are In Store

Joe has owned the Suburban for about four years, and he’s been making upgrades along the way. We asked him what his favorite modification is, and he replied, “Just the whole ride itself. It’s not a lot of modifications. It just looks awesome.”

What’s next for the Suburban? Well, the biggest news is that Joe is planning to swap the 350-cubic-inch engine for a 454-cubic-inch engine.

Joe’s barn-find Suburban is only going to get better.