We are all plagued by intrusive thoughts. For the diesel guy or gal, one example sounds something like this: I want a Hummer. Not one of those new electric ones—a real one. I know there is no justification, but I just want it. Yes, the rebel within yearns for an AM General Hummer—also known as the Hummer H1—one of the burliest vehicles ever released to the general public. Originally designed as a military vehicle, the High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle (HMMWV or “Humvee”), the Hummer was adapted for civilian use in the early 1990s.

The original AM General Hummer (H1) was manufactured by AM General and produced from 1992 until 2006. In 1999, AM General sold the Hummer brand name to General Motors, but AM General continued to build the H1 while GM took over marketing and sales. (GM later introduced the H2 and H3 models, which were smaller and more mainstream.)

Throughout its production run, the Hummer H1 came with a variety of diesel and gasoline engines. The focus was always on durability and torque, essential for the vehicle’s off-road mission. Early models came with a naturally aspirated 6.2L Detroit Diesel V8 that produced around 150 horsepower and 240 lb-ft of torque. After that, the Hummer received a more powerful 6.5L Detroit Diesel V8 (both naturally aspirated and turbocharged). The turbocharged version provided better performance and became more common in later models. The most powerful and refined version of the H1, the 2006 Alpha H1, came equipped with the 6.6L Duramax V8 producing 300 horsepower and 520 lb-ft of torque.

Since it’s rare to see a Hummer H1 in the wild (about 12,000 were made) and even rarer to come across a custom one, we found it prudent to share this restored and customized 2000 AM General Hummer Hard Top Wagon that we found on Sotheby’s Motorsport (SOMO), a high-end auction platorm. Fully massaged by Craven Performance & Off-Road in June 2022, this Hummer H1 combines the rugged appeal of the OG Hummer with a modernized powertrain. Bespoke craftsmanship can be see throughout the build. SOMO reports that more than $187,000 was invested into the beastly SUV; it sold for $152,250.

The H1 is kind of a dog—but not this one. An 800-hp Wagler Streetfighter Duramax 6.6L V8 diesel mated to an Allison transmission ensure the land yacht moves uncharacteristically briskly. From the video footage, we can hear quite a whistle coming from under the hood. There’s an SPOD control system, Dakota Digital HVAC system, and Pioneer in-dash multimedia receiver. We won’t cover all the details, but it’s safe to say this H1 is the one to have, should you give in to the intrusive thoughts.

The AM General Hummer H1 is not just a vehicle; it’s a symbol of American military engineering adapted for civilian adventure. Its enormous width, high ground clearance, and portal axles place it at the top of our list of rad diesel SUVs.