Y is for Yieldless: 1987 Yugo GV

Y is for Yugoslavian, a household term synonymous with high manufacturing standards and reliability. Indeed, following Yugo’s lauded introduction to the U.S. Market in 1986, the sales success of Yugoslavian imports put pressure on the Big Three domestic automakers to increase their build quality and fuel efficiency. And now, an all-original example can be yours for under $3,000. Find this 1987 Yugo GV in San Antonio, TX for $2,400 via craigslist.

Everyone has a positive Yugo story or anecdote. “My kid’s turning 16 next month, so I’m buying her my uncle’s 200,000-mile Yugo so she has a safe, dependable car for high school while learning the responsibility of car ownership.” Although they weren’t built for outright performance, Yugos enjoyed the spotlight in 2001 when a movie franchise showcased the craze of mounting garish wings and loud mufflers for street-racing purposes.

Remember when the spare tire in the engine bay was a novelty? Now it’s commonplace – even Chevy implemented the intelligent, space-saving practice across their model lineup to attract Yugoslavian import shoppers. The meager 1.1L engine would develop through multiple generations of its compact cars, introducing fuel-saving technology that would revolutionize the automotive landscape.

As Daily Turismo prepares to close its birthday celebration, it seemed fitting to include one of our favorite slow cars to drive fast: the Yugo GV. Looking unassuming and neglected in its dusty shade of spleen red, you would hardly believe that this car is ready to provide future owners with thousands of maintenance-free miles on twisty back roads, or on the autocross course where its legendary track potential can be exploited. Thanks, Yugo, for bringing this affordable yet capable classic to our shores. And to all the Yugo drivers out there, happy motoring.

See another Yugoslavian icon? Email us at tips@dailyturismo.com.



PhiLOL actually likes the tuna here, but abhors structural rust. Save the manuals.


This post is part of Daily Turismo’s 2nd Birthday Celebration — DT’s ABCs.

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