1999 AM General Hummer Review

The 1999 AM General Hummer H1 is undoubtedly a civilian version of the iconic military Humvee and is a titan among SUVs. You can’t help but admire it whenever you encounter one on the road - even the EV Hummers have nothing on these older models. It's rugged, spacious, rare, and iconic, and owning one will put a piece of history in your hands. But what lies beneath the rugged exterior? How does the 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 engine fare, and how does it feel to drive it? We’ll find out in this review.

Back In Time

The origins of the 1999 AM General Hummer can be traced back to the early 1980s when the United States military decided to build a versatile and robust vehicle.  The goal was to create a vehicle suitable for all terrains and conditions. AM General, a subsidiary of American Motors Corporation at the time, rose to the challenge by developing the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV), commonly known as the Humvee. In 1992, spurred by public interest following its military success and iconic appearances for many years, AM General launched a civilian version known simply as the Hummer. This civilian adaptation maintained its predecessors' rugged design and off-road capabilities. It, however, included essential civilian comfort and safety modifications like air conditioning. There were minimal changes from the 1999 model and its predecessors.

Unstoppable Even With Average Horsepower

Like many predecessors, the 1999 AM General Hummer sports a 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 engine. This engine produces 195 horsepower and 430 lb-ft of torque. The Hummer's four-wheel-drive system and integrated central tire inflation system allow you to adjust tire pressure on the go. This tire adjustment capability from within the cabin ensures you remain unstoppable while navigating rocky trails or cruising the highway. The 6.5-liter turbodiesel V8 achieves a torque peak at 1,800 rpm, allowing the Hummer to tackle steep inclines and rough terrain easily. With a maximum towing capacity of 7,100 pounds, the Hummer is a heavyweight champion, ready to tow boats or trailers without breaking a sweat. Fuel economy is not its strong suit, with an average of 10-12 mpg, but the Hummer wasn't designed for efficiency.

A Few Amenities

The 1999 AM General Hummer has an interior that can withstand the elements while providing adequate comfort. It offers spacious seating for four adults with enough legroom and headroom. Since it’s a Hummer, we’re not shocked by its lack of luxury features since they’re chosen for their rugged qualities rather than plush comforts. The wide dashboard is reminiscent of its military lineage as it has straightforward controls and feels bare for such a massive vehicle. The seats are well cushioned, upholstered in durable fabric or optional leather, and have a sizable cargo area behind the rear seats. Climate control is one of the few comfort features available, along with a basic audio system.

Rugged And Resilient Looks

The Hummer's design screams indomitability, with its boxy, wide-body measuring nearly 7 feet wide and over 16 feet long. You won’t have any issues commanding attention on and off the road. The exterior has steel bumpers, skid plates, and the iconic Hummer grille. The ground clearance and approach angles are top-of-the-line, so your chances of getting stuck are slim. Its wide track and sizeable 17-inch all-terrain tires improve its poise on the road. Topping off its formidable appearance, the Hummer features a set of roof-mounted auxiliary lights that enhance visibility and practical elements like tow hooks and a rear-mounted spare tire. You can opt for the open, hard, and soft-top Hummer models, depending on your preferences.

Nothing For The Tech Savvy

The 1999 AM General Hummer doesn't boast the technological advancements in today's vehicles, even though it has essentials that improve the driving experience. A standard feature is its robust HVAC system, a dashboard with easy-to-read analog dials and gauges, and heavy-duty wiring harness and circuit protection to enhance electrical reliability. For those who require basic connectivity, you can outfit your 1999 AM General Hummer with an optional in-dash CB radio and a navigation system, as it doesn’t come with any of these. You can also add communication equipment if you need it.

Is The Price Worth It?

Initially, the MSRP for a new 1999 AM Hummer model hovered around $80,000. Today, the used car market for Hummers sees significant variability in pricing due to factors such as condition, mileage, and modifications. Prices can range from $25,000 to $50,000 and sometimes even higher for well-maintained or rare configurations. Here are other reliable luxury and classic vehicles available on Exotic Car Trader.

Final Thoughts

Owning a 1999 AM General Hummer is an experience only the strong in heart can do. It’s a versatile vehicle if you learn to handle its size and fuel needs. Don’t expect to see modern creature comforts in it - it has none. However, you’ll be satisfied with its ruggedness and overall build quality. If you're considering adding this beast to your collection, look no further than Exotic Car Trader. This online platform provides a user-friendly experience for buying and selling high-end vehicles, making connecting with potential buyers or finding your next ride easy. Whether you're listing your car or searching for that perfect piece, Exotic Car Trader ensures a seamless process to meet your automotive aspirations.