The Blade is a standout vehicle in the Grand Theft Auto series, making appearances in GTA: San Andreas, GTA V, and GTA Online. Known for its iconic lowrider appearance and muscle car credentials, the Blade has undergone notable design changes as it evolved from one game to the next. In this guide, we’ll explore the Blade’s history, design, and performance across its various iterations, and how players can make the most of it in GTA V and GTA Online.
What Is the Blade in GTA 5?
In GTA V, the Blade is a two-door muscle car available in the game as part of the "I'm Not a Hipster" Update. Unlike its lowrider variant from San Andreas, the GTA V version is styled as a gasser—an updated take on the classic American muscle car. Produced by Vapid, a manufacturer known for producing some of the most iconic vehicles in the GTA universe, the Blade is a throwback to the 1960s and early '70s muscle cars, combining various design elements from several classic models.
The Blade is available in GTA Online for $160,000 from Southern San Andreas Super Autos, though it is no longer available for purchase as part of newer updates. Despite this, players can still acquire it through special events or other in-game methods, ensuring its place as a highly sought-after vehicle.
How Does the Blade Handle in GTA 5?
Most players who enjoy muscle cars in GTA V will find the Blade an exciting ride. Its handling and performance are typical of American muscle cars—heavy, powerful, and not the most agile, but offering thrilling acceleration and a loud, throaty engine sound. When you get behind the wheel, you’ll quickly notice the Blade’s impressive straight-line speed. However, turning can be a challenge, as the car’s handling leans more toward brute force than finesse.
The Blade’s suspension is not built for tight corners, but it shines on open roads and highways, where its speed and horsepower are most appreciated. In general, most players who enjoy drifting or high-speed races will find the Blade a fun, if somewhat unwieldy, choice.
The Blade’s Influence in GTA Games
Blade in GTA: San Andreas
The Blade first appeared in GTA: San Andreas, where it was introduced as a two-door lowrider. The car drew heavy inspiration from the classic Chevrolet Impala, blending multiple elements of the iconic vehicle’s design. In San Andreas, the Blade had a significant presence in the lowrider culture that dominated parts of the game's narrative.
One of the key features of the Blade in San Andreas was its customization options. Players could modify the car extensively, changing the wheels, colors, and even adding a vinyl hardtop. These modifications allowed the Blade to become a true reflection of the player’s personal style.
Blade in GTA V and GTA Online
When the Blade returned in GTA V and GTA Online, it underwent a dramatic redesign. The once lowrider was now transformed into a more aggressive muscle car, taking cues from the 1964–65 Ford Falcon, the 1963 Ford Fairlane, and the 1965 Chevrolet Chevy II Nova. The rear end of the car, with its distinct tail lights, draws from the 1971–1972 Dodge Dart Demon or the early Ford Mustang.
This updated version of the Blade felt more in line with the muscle cars found in the GTA V universe, focusing on performance and a classic look that appealed to both nostalgia and modern sensibilities. The “gasser” style adds a level of ruggedness and customization options that weren’t present in the San Andreas version.
Blade Modifications in GTA V and Online
In GTA V and GTA Online, the Blade offers a wide variety of customization options. Players can enhance the car’s performance with engine upgrades, turbo boosts, and transmission adjustments. For aesthetics, the Blade supports different body kits, custom paint jobs, and various wheel styles. The GTA Online modification options, in particular, make the Blade a favorite for players who want a one-of-a-kind muscle car that stands out in the streets of Los Santos.
For players interested in fine-tuning their ride even further, there are also NPC-modified variants. These modded versions can often be found in certain parts of the game or purchased from special events, offering unique paint jobs and more aggressive modifications.
Performance Review: Is the Blade Worth It?
When it comes to the Blade’s overall performance, GTA V players will likely find it an excellent addition to their collection of muscle cars. Its acceleration is powerful, but its handling might not be for everyone. In general, players who are accustomed to lighter sports cars or nimble sedans might find the Blade a bit cumbersome in tight situations. However, its top speed and powerful engine make it a beast on straightaways.
For missions that require brute force and speed, the Blade excels. If you're just looking for a fun car to cruise around Los Santos with, it will certainly do the trick. However, in competitive racing or high-speed chases, its handling issues might require a bit of adjustment.
Where to Find the Blade in GTA V
In GTA V, players can find the Blade in specific locations across the map, including in the garages of certain characters. However, if you want to skip the search and go straight to owning one, you can purchase the Blade in GTA Online for $160,000. Keep in mind that the Blade’s availability in GTA Online has been limited since it was pulled from the Southern San Andreas Super Autos website.
If you're looking for more customization options or unique designs, some players also prefer to purchase GTA 5 money for sale from U4N sellers to buy rare cars like the Blade and more. However, it's essential to be cautious when dealing with in-game purchases outside of the official channels to avoid scams.