The Sierra C1500 was the half-ton, rear wheel drive variant of the 1st Gen GMC Sierra that debuted for the 1988 model year. These pickup trucks were available in both short or long bed versions, as well as with sleek Wideside or fendered Sportside bed sides. The standard engine was a 4.3L V6, but two optional V8 engines were offered: 5.0L, 5.7L. In addition to the gasoline V8s, a diesel option also available. Regardless of the engine selected, manual or automatic transmission options were selectable. Production of the 1st Gen Sierra C1500 ended in 1999, when it was replaced by the 2nd Gen GMC Sierra 1500.