8 track radio/player

[Jim M.]

When did GM introduce the 8 track am/fm radio as an option or did they ever? I find it interesting that my 69 Mustang came with one as an option that year.

[Donald T.]

Re: 8 track radio/player

Introduced in the 1977 model year as RPO UM2 and continued through the 1982 model year.

[Jim M.]

Re: 8 track radio/player

Thanks Don, My 69 vette at least has the stereo option. I just find it interesting that it took GM so long to introduce the 8 track and if 77 was the first year for it as an option, the cassette was beginning to get eveyone's attention as the next cool thing.

[Michael W.]

Re: 8 track radio/player

Radios with the latest of features (including good sound quality) were never a high priority in C3 Corvettes. Many owners opted not to order a radio of any type only to find that most aftermarket units would not fit the uniquely sized opening in the console.

[Tom H.]

Re: 8 track radio/player

Hi Jim !

Your question asked when GM offered an 8 track system. I know if you go back in Camaro history, you will see a U57 tape player option listed back in 67 and 68. Not sure if any other cars had this option earlier or not.

UM2 8 track was first offered in the Corvette in 1977 as was mentioned before.

[Joe L.]

Re: 8 track radio/player

Thanks Don, My 69 vette at least has the stereo option. I just find it interesting that it took GM so long to introduce the 8 track and if 77 was the first year for it as an option, the cassette was beginning to get eveyone's attention as the next cool thing.

Jim-----

The radios used for 1963-67 and 1968-76 Corvettes were unique-to-Corvette pieces. Given the limited application of these units, I suppose GM figured the cost to design and manufacture a unit incorporating 8 track (which would have had even more limited selection as an option) was just not economically feasible.

Beginning in 1977, the Corvette radio, or, at least, the basic chassis of same, was "brought into conformity" with the units used across the Chevrolet and GM line. So, an 8 track option was then entirely feasible.