This 1977 GMC Eleganza II Is a Wonderfully Preserved, Funky Time Capsule

General Motors’ lone entry into the premium RV market, the GMC Motorhome, turned out to be a bigger success than early reactions suggested. Now regarded as one of the most innovative and well-built motorhomes ever produced, it has become a highly sought-after collectible that still packs genuine road-trip capability.

This particular example stands out even more. It’s a 1977 GMC Motorhome configured in the Eleganza II layout, but with custom touches that give it an unmistakable presence. Any GMC Motorhome preserved this well is worth noting, yet the pink-and-purple exterior takes this one into its own category.

GM first started exploring the RV idea in the late 1960s, releasing official plans in 1970. By 1972, the first prototypes appeared in two lengths, with the company proudly insisting this would be nothing like the typical “box on wheels.”

And they meant it.

Rather than modifying an existing truck platform, GM’s Truck & Coach Division designed the Motorhome completely from scratch. The team opted for a front-mounted engine and front-wheel drive, which delivered better handling, a lower center of gravity, and a more accessible floor height.
Early brochures even boasted that the GMC Motorhome sat “lower than any other motorhome” then available—yet still offered “generous ground clearance” and full standing height inside.

GM also guaranteed stable performance in crosswinds, on curves, over bumps, and at highway speeds. Standard equipment included a 455-cu-in V8, tandem rear wheels with suspension, automatic transmission, power steering, power brakes, and six-wheel braking.

Buyers could choose from 15 floorplans, each emphasizing comfort and usability. During its production run, which wrapped up in November 1977, GM built 12,921 units. The program didn’t end due to lack of interest, but rather because of outside pressures, like the 1973 oil crisis.

Even so, around 9,000 to 10,000 Motorhomes are believed to still be on the road today—an impressive testament to their build quality.

The Eleganza II model shown in the listing photos was produced during the Motorhome’s later years, rolling off the line in 1976. It’s now up for auction on Bring a Trailer out of Arizona, and thanks to its bold style, it has quickly become one of the site’s most-watched vehicles.

Originally finished in standard GMC colors, it was later transformed into the retro disco cruiser it is today—complete with a pink-and-purple paint scheme that matches an equally playful interior.

Perhaps even more striking than the custom look is the fact that this RV has stayed with the same owner for 45 years. Its caretaker, a 97-year-old collector of vintage Mercedes, bought it in 1980 and spent a decade using it for family trips across the country.

The custom paint job was applied in 1990 by Tony Ostermeier of Gullwing International Cars, with the owner’s wife choosing the color combination. In more recent years, the Motorhome hasn’t been used often, which is why the decision was made to sell it.

The odometer currently shows 33,000 miles, though actual mileage is just over 62,000 due to a dash and odo replacement in 1995. Upgrades include roof-mounted Dometic AC units with heat pumps, solar panels with an inverter, auxiliary lighting, a newer generator, fresh rear suspension airbags, and new shocks.

Inside, the cabin embraces the same disco energy, featuring pink corded upholstery, gray carpeting, and wood-grain accents. Behind the pink cab seats is a step-down lounge with two swiveling armchairs in a small dining setup, plus a sofa.

The galley kitchen comes equipped with a cooktop, microwave, compact fridge and freezer, sink, and ample storage. A wet bath includes a shower, sink, and foot-flush toilet. The rear bedroom offers two bunks that can be joined into a larger bed.

Though the RV includes modern updates like motion-activated lighting, a Bluetooth Alpine stereo, and dual AC units, they’re integrated in a way that keeps the vintage vibe intact.

This ’77 GMC Motorhome is a retro gem that’s been sensitively updated for present-day travel—and still represents one of the most desirable GMC Motorhomes around.

Bidding currently sits at $21,000 with two days left before the auction closes. The final stretch of any Bring a Trailer sale is usually when things get exciting, and for those watching from home, it’s a rare chance to admire a standout piece of RV history.