The General Motors L platform (commonly called the L-body or L car) was a front-wheel drive compact car automotive platform that was produced from 1987 through 1996.

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Quick Facts GM L platform, Overview ...

GM L platform
1994 Chevrolet Beretta Z26
Overview
Manufacturer	General Motors
Also called	L-body L car
Production	1987–1996
Body and chassis
Class	Compact (C) platform
Layout	FF layout
Body style(s)	2-door coupe 4-door sedan 5-door hatchback
Vehicles	Chevrolet Beretta Chevrolet Corsica Pontiac Tempest
Related	GM N platform GM J platform
Powertrain
Engine(s)	122 I4 Quad-4 I4 60° V6
Transmission(s)	3-speed 3T40 automatic 4-speed 4T40-E automatic 4-speed 4T60-E automatic 5-speed Getrag 282 manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	103.4 in (2,626 mm)
Chronology
Predecessor	GM X platform (FWD)
Successor	2nd generation GM N Platform

Close

The L platform was very similar to the GM N platform however the 1st generation N cars were engineered by Oldsmobile while the L cars were engineered by Chevrolet. The L platform used a Twist-beam rear suspension and MacPherson struts in front and featured a 103.4 in (263 cm) wheelbase.

Both platforms were used to replace the GM X platform on which the Citation, among others, were based.

Pontiac sold their own version of the L-Body in Canada only. It was marketed as the Tempest from 1987 to 1991. This model featured a unique grill and tail lamps (which were later used on the updated Corsica). This model was dropped following the 1991 model due to the introduction of the new 1992 Grand Am sedan.

The L car lasted just one generation, with the nameplates being retired and replaced by the GM N platform Chevrolet Malibu.

This platform was the basis for the following vehicles:

• 1987–1996 Chevrolet Beretta
• 1987–1996 Chevrolet Corsica
• 1987–1991 Pontiac Tempest (Canada)