Lot 6450: 1954 GMC 100

The 1954 GMC 100 and Chevrolet 3100 are essentially corporate siblings with the same underpinnings—they’re mechanically identical twins wearing different badges.

What’s the Same:

• Both are ½-ton pickups built on GM’s “Advance Design” platform (Chevy’s name) / “New Design” platform (GMC’s name) that ran from 1947-1955
• Same frame, same chassis, same engine and transmission options (originally inline-six engines, later V8 conversions)
• They share production lineage as Chevy and GMC’s first major post-WWII truck redesign

The Key Differences:

1. Styling: The most obvious difference is the grille—the GMC has a horizontal-bar grille while the Chevy 3100 sports the iconic vertical “winged” grille with five horizontal bars. GMC also had different badging and trim detailing.

2. Historical Positioning: GMC was always positioned as the upmarket, premium sibling to Chevrolet—aimed more at commercial/fleet buyers who wanted a “professional grade” truck.

3. Market Values Today: Interestingly, the Chevrolet 3100 currently has stronger collector demand. According to Classic.com market data, Chevrolet Advance Design trucks average around $48,548 with strong activity (98 currently for sale), while GMC New Design trucks average around $35,752 (only 16 currently available). The Chevrolet has seen top sales reach $511,500 vs. $123,200 for the GMC equivalent.

That specific 1954 GMC 100 you’re looking at is listed at $129,900—well above the market average, but it is a custom build with automatic transmission and low indicated miles, which commands a premium.

Want me to show you some comparable Chevrolet 3100s or help you dig deeper into either market? GMC New Design Market | Chevrolet Advance Design Market