“Ran when parked” is one of those oft-used expressions that causes some enthusiasts to grit their teeth. However, it perfectly describes the history of this 1964 Chevrolet El Camino. It is unclear when it last fired a shot in anger, but the accumulated dust suggests that many years have passed since it last graced our roads. The seller emphasizes some positive points, including the 350ci V8 under the hood. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Rocco B. for spotting this affordable project listed here on Craigslist in Lumberton, North Carolina. This El Camino could be yours for a mere $3,000.
Chevrolet introduced its Second Generation El Camino range in 1964 following a four-year market absence. Based on the Chevelle’s platform and front sheetmetal, the styling was more conservative than its predecessor’s. The seller doesn’t indicate how long this El Camino has occupied its current spot, but I wouldn’t be surprised if it is over a decade. They describe the vehicle as a pretty solid project, suggesting that the new owner won’t face a long list of rust repairs. A couple of images reveal what might be this classic’s original Ember Red paint, and reinstating that shade would guarantee that this Chevy turned heads. It appears that most of the trim is intact, but the accumulated dust makes it impossible to confirm the condition of the glass.
This El Camino’s interior is a surprise packet trimmed in Red vinyl. It is unlikely to ever score the new owner show trophies in its current form, but a deep clean could yield surprising results. There is visible discoloration on the driver’s door trim, but there are no gaping holes in the seatcover, the pad hasn’t cracked, and the dash looks good. A few days of intense work should transform it into a serviceable state, or would at least allow the new owner to determine what may require replacement beyond the sagging headliner if they plan a budget partial retrim. The radio is missing, while the shifter, wheel, and under-dash gauge cluster are later additions.
It is unclear what motor originally called this El Camino’s engine bay home, but that is largely irrelevant since it disappeared many years ago. What we find in its place is a 350ci V8 of unknown specifications and heritage. It is bolted to an automatic transmission, with the seller confirming that they have no idea what it is. Therefore, this classic’s drivetrain leaves plenty of mechanical questions unanswered. One known fact is that the Chevy reached its current location under its power, hence the “ran when parked” label. The seller states that the small-block turns freely, opening the possibility that it may spring to life following rudimentary maintenance and tweaking.
This 1964 Chevrolet El Camino looks tired, requiring many hours of work before it returns to active service. However, it has many positive attributes that make it worth a close look. Its small-block V8 turns, the interior may present acceptably following a deep clean, and the seller indicates it is solid. However, the fact that it is so affordable could be its greatest strength. These are wonderfully versatile vehicles, but are all those factors enough to convince you to pursue this El Camino further?
Come on now folks, push the thing outside…Happy New Year!
With an asking price of $3,000, it didn’t matter. It would have been nice, but its a desirable car that sold itself.
Steve R
The 3k alone sold it, because it looks like the tin worm fired a lot of shots at it in anger.
Dang! Already gone..oh well, I’d’ve just gotten into trouble if it was still listed, a lot closer and an inspection indicated it was relatively worth bringing home.
I noticed the right front fender says Chevelle. I also has the dumb third brke light. Still a pretty good deal for the money. It shoud have been moved outside and washed off and show the before and after pictures!