This 1965 Chevrolet El Camino makes a positive first impression, from its sparkling paint to its laser-straight panels. The Rally wheels suggest that it might be more than a pretty face, and that impression isn’t deceptive. It features mechanical upgrades below the surface that should provide more power and a bulletproof motoring experience. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the El Camino listed here on Craigslist in Spokane, Washington. The seller set their price at $17,500 for a classic that appears to need nothing.

Ford caught the motoring world off guard when it released the Ranchero for the 1957 model year. Chevrolet’s response was the El Camino for 1959, a vehicle that perfectly encapsulated the Coupe Utility concept. Its Second Generation emerged in 1964, based upon the Chevelle platform. It underwent a facelift in 1965, which is when this El Camino left the line. The seller is guarded about its history, but criticizing its appearance is almost impossible. The Red paint shines like a mirror, cloaking panels that are free from noticeable bumps and bruises. The seller doesn’t mention any rust issues, and I can’t spot any problems in the listing images. It is disappointing that they don’t supply any bed shots, because that is the area that is typically prone to physical damage. However, the photos seem to suggest that it may have been treated to a spray liner. The trim and glass are excellent, and this classic rolls on a set of Rally wheels that perfectly suit its character.

Considering how nicely the rest of this El Camino presents, the engine bay is disappointing. However, every cloud has a silver lining, because at least the seller hasn’t bathed everything in detailing spray. It allows us to confirm that there are no signs of fluid leaks or other long-term problems. Chevrolet’s 1965 Sales Brochure states that buyers could select from five engines to power their new El Camino, with the range-topping 283ci V8 producing 300hp and 360 ft/lbs of torque. That is no longer relevant because the original motor has made way for a 350ci small-block. Its specifications are unclear, but it sends its power to a 12-bolt rear end via a three-speed TH-350 automatic transmission. That combination will prove pretty robust, and the ready availability of parts should ensure that this beauty provides its new owner with years of faithful service. The listing suggests that this El Camino is a turnkey proposition, allowing the buyer to fly in and drive it home.

The engine bay appearance may be disappointing, but this El Camino’s interior doesn’t appear to let the side down. It isn’t clear whether the dash cover hides a cracked pad, but the rest of the interior would look pretty nice if someone broke out the vacuum cleaner. The Black cloth seatcover is free from wear and other problems, with the remaining vinyl looking equally nice. The carpet looks excellent, with the same true of the dash. I can’t spot any aftermarket additions beyond the gauges mounted by the driver’s left knee. It doesn’t score luxuries like air conditioning, although it appears that the first owner equipped the vehicle with a pushbutton radio.

Although Chevrolet considered reviving the El Camino badge in 2011 based on the Australian Holden Commodore ute, the closure of Holden’s manufacturing facility means that this path was closed to the company. There have been whispers that the El Camino may still reappear, but with no iron-clad guarantees, it falls to vehicles like this 1965 example to carry the torch. It does so admirably, and I won’t be surprised if it finds a new home fairly quickly. Are you tempted to make it yours?