The GMC K1500 was a half-ton version of the 3rd Gen GMC C/K that was introduced for the 1973 model year. The K1500 was a four wheel drive pickup that was offered in long or short bed lengths, with a choice between the fendered Fenderside or sleek Wideside truck beds. Engines available ranged from a 250ci inline six to a 454ci V8, with the most common engines being the 305ci or 350ci V8s. In addition to gasoline engines, a diesel V8 option was offered most years. Both manual and automatic transmissions were available, regardless of the engine. Production of the 3rd Gen GMC K1500 ended in 1986, when it received a name change to the GMC V1500 in anticipation of the release of the GMC Sierra.