Before GM consolidated its rear-axle production into what became known as "corporate" axles around 1971, each division placed its own versions underneath the passenger cars it produced. Chevrolet used its own 8.2-inch 10- and 12-bolt axles, while the other divisions used various other axle designs, including one 8.2-inch 10-bolt that saw use under certain Buicks, Oldsmobiles and Pontiacs, which led to its shorthand moniker, the "B-O-P" 10-bolt. Although the Chevrolet axles often fit under performance models from other divisions (depending on the model), original Buick, Olds and Pontiac axles that have been reconditioned or upgraded can have advantages over some of the Chevrolet axle options in terms of strength, as well as in keeping your classic Cutlass, Skylark, Firebird or GTO as original as possible.

Donor axles are still available, and numerous upgrade parts including alternative gear ratios, limited-slip differential units, and even locking-differential units are offered by several aftermarket suppliers. These can add durability and performance while keeping the car close to factory appearance.

Although Buick, Pontiac and pre-'67 Oldsmobiles used the same basic 8.2-inch 10-bolt differential (1967-'70 Oldsmobiles used the Olds-specific 12-bolt 8.5-inch differential), these are different from the Chevrolet 8.2 10-bolt offerings. Buick and Pontiac 10-bolt rear ends used flange-retained axles instead of the C-clip retained axles like those on Chevrolet rears.