1998 GMC K1500 – A Time Capsule in Emerald Green
In the twilight of the 20th century, the 1998 GMC Sierra K1500 emerged as one of the last iterations of the revered GMT400 platform—a line of trucks known for bridging the gap between rugged utility and daily drivability. This platform was a cornerstone of GMC's identity throughout the 1990s, and by 1998, the K1500 had become a refined yet no-nonsense workhorse. These trucks were the last of their kind before the GMT800 platform took over in 1999, and they remain cherished today for their durability, simplicity, and unmistakable late-'90s style.
This particular 1998 GMC K1500, finished in factory Emerald Green Metallic (Code 43U) with a Tan interior (Code 52I), is a glowing example of preservation and originality. With only 51,148 actual miles on the odometer, it has clearly been cared for throughout its lifetime, as reflected in its clean, detailed CarFax history spanning three owners across Mississippi, Texas, and Kansas.
Under the hood lies its original matching-numbers 5.7L 350 V8 engine, mated to a 4L60E automatic transmission, a reliable combination that powered many GM trucks of the era. The drivetrain retains its stock exhaust system, including original manifolds, catalytic converter, muffler, and tailpipe—an increasingly rare configuration for a truck of this age. The 4WD system with automatic locking hubs was factory-equipped and still functions flawlessly.
Rolling on 16-inch OE wheels wrapped in BF Goodrich All-Terrain T/A tires (date-coded 2021), this K1500 retains its original rugged stance. Bilstein shocks on all four corners and a front sway bar support confident handling and comfort. A 10-bolt rear end completes the mechanical setup, showcasing how intact and unmodified this example remains.
The interior is all-original, with a bench seat and fold-down console, factory cassette AM/FM stereo, and working power windows, locks, and mirrors. Factory gauges for oil pressure, coolant temp, and voltage add to its functional charm. Even features like cruise control, cold A/C, and intermittent wipers are still in perfect working order, along with a tilt steering column and heater.
The exterior body retains its original paint and shows only minor age-related imperfections. The finish still shines beautifully, and subtle factory additions like body side moldings, wheel lip moldings, and a drop-in bed liner keep things both functional and stylish. With no accidents or damage ever reported, and a clean undercarriage that “shows well with minimal age corrosion,” this K1500 stands out as an honest, original survivor.
Mechanically, the truck is reported to “run, drive, stop, and steer like a brand new pickup,” with “zero complaints” and no issues during inspection. The vehicle passed all functional tests, from headlights and horn to speedometer, tachometer, and 4x4 engagement. Every system—from the heater and radio to the windshield wipers and power accessories—is operational.
This 1998 GMC K1500 isn’t just a pickup—it’s a preserved piece of American truck history, embodying the tail end of the analog era of GM engineering. Low-mileage, unmodified, and mechanically sound, it captures the spirit of a time when trucks were built to last and ready for anything.
PC Classic Cars in Sherman, Texas, is known for curating and preserving vehicles just like this one—classic, unmodified, and full of character. Their passion for timeless automotive craftsmanship makes them a trusted name in the classic vehicle world.
Have a classic truck like this 1998 GMC K1500?
PC Classic Cars is actively seeking well-preserved classic pickups and 4x4s. Whether it's a square-body Chevy, OBS Ford, or vintage GMC like this one, reach out to their team in Sherman, Texas. With a reputation for honesty, expertise, and a passion for the classics, PC Classic Cars is the go-to destination for owners looking to pass on their piece of history.