This 1968 Chevrolet El Camino has so many positive attributes that it is impossible to choose a single one as most significant. It looks tired, but it is rust-free. The seller performed a few mechanical upgrades to maximize the performance from the big-block hiding under the hood. They include extra parts, helping the buyer to return this classic to its former glory. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Curvette for spotting the El Camino listed here on Craigslist in Vancouver, Washington. The seller has set their price at $9,300, making it an affordable project candidate.
Chevrolet introduced the Third Generation El Camino in 1968, and, as with its predecessor, the company based its latest offering on the Chevelle platform. This Generation remained on sale until 1972, cementing the badge’s place in the company’s lineup until the last El Camino left the line in 1987. The seller indicates that this first-year example was repainted many years ago, and the overall deterioration and matte finish suggest the buyer will need to repeat the process. The existing color is a mystery, matching nothing on that year’s El Camino color chart. However, it resembles Anniversary Gold, especially in areas such as the door frames, where deterioration is less pronounced. The panels have a few bumps and bruises, but the truly great news becomes clear when we focus on rust. The seller assures us there is none, allowing the buyer to leave the grinder and welder in the cupboard during this restoration. The trim and glass look acceptable for a driver-grade build, but the badges on the front fenders indicate that this El Camino has a welcome hidden secret.
Chevrolet offered 1968 El Camino buyers a choice of two versions of the 396ci V8 to power their new purchase, and it is unclear which this classic features. The Sales Brochure indicates that even if this classic’s first owner selected the least potent option, it would still produce 325hp and 410 ft/lb of torque. However, the driver might have 350hp and 415 ft/lbs at their disposal. It is also worth noting that, because the El Camino has a lower curb weight than the Chevelle on which it is based, it should deliver measurable performance gains over even the iconic SS 396 muscle car. This El Camino sends its prodigious power to a brand-new 10-bolt Posi rear end with 3.73 gears via a new three-speed TH350 automatic transmission with a 2300-stall converter. The Posi will help the vehicle apply most of its power to the tarmac, but the old-school ladder bars and boxed rear control arms will further improve the situation. The El Camino also features power steering, and the seller has upgraded the brakes to power-assisted four-wheel discs. They lowered the El Camino’s ride height by 2″ with new springs, fitted new tubular control arms, and recently installed a new 2½” exhaust. They don’t specifically describe this gem as roadworthy, but the impression conveyed is that it is a turnkey proposition.
Some readers might find this El Camino’s interior slightly unnerving. There are no floor coverings, the driver faces an aftermarket wheel, and the upholstered surfaces are mismatched. However, there are positive attributes. The dash looks clean, and the pad is crack-free. Okay, that isn’t much, but it is just the start. Sitting in the bed is a new interior trim and upholstery kit, still in the boxes. It includes a beautiful Teakwood wheel, and once installed, it will look stunning. These kits typically cost at least $1,400, and the wheel would add at least $240 to the tally. Considering the seller’s asking price, the fresh interior is a welcome bonus that most potential buyers will appreciate.
Years ago, I purchased an Australian Ford Falcon Ute as my daily driver. I did so out of necessity, because I didn’t really want to park one in my garage. However, I quickly became a convert because these vehicles offer an excellent combination of versatility, performance, and comfort. This 1968 Chevrolet El Camino will take the concept of performance to a higher level, courtesy of its 396ci V8 and sensible mechanical upgrades. Whipping its panels and paint into shape should be straightforward, and installing the supplied interior will add the perfect finishing touch. Combine those factors with the seller’s price, and this El Camino deserves more than a passing glance.
Looks like a motor mount gave up at some point.
Not perfect, but has a lot of good parts and potential. Its price seems pretty reasonable if the pictures are an accurate representation of its true condition.
Ditch the bolt on ladder bars, all they do is cause the rear suspension to bind, there is a reason they went out of style on street cars 40 years ago, they only fit well on a “day two” build.
Steve R