One of the obvious attractions of big-block V8s is that they can be tuned to produce impressive power levels and corresponding performance. However, their ability to churn out earth-turning torque low in the rev range makes such engines perfect towing candidates in the right vehicle. That could be an option worth considering with this 1973 Chevrolet El Camino SS. Its engine bay houses a 454ci monster, and if the buyer bolted on a hitch, it would be an accomplished tow vehicle. Located in Roseville, California, the owner has listed the SS for sale here on eBay. They have set a BIN of $13,500, and I have to say a huge thank you to Barn Finder Larry D for spotting another excellent classic for us.
The history of this El Camino is unclear, although it does appear to be a blue plate survivor that has spent its life in California. That may help to explain the baked state of its Medium Bronze paint and the almost complete lack of rust issues. A couple of small spots are visible behind the rear wheel arches, but the remaining panels and floor pans look excellent. The seller doesn’t indicate why the SS wears one odd fender, but the original may have previously suffered damage. The buyer will need to source filler panels and a rubbing strip for the front bumper, but the remaining trim and glass present well. Rounding out the exterior is a spotless set of factory Rally wheels.
The El Camino’s interior is such a mixed bag it is difficult to know where to start. I believe the door trims are probably original, although the seat upholstery and gauge fascia aren’t. The photo quality makes it appear that the carpet is dark blue, and if that proves the case, that makes the interior the equivalent of Joseph’s Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat. If the buyer seeks a factory appearance as part of this restoration, a new seatcover will cost around $430, a carpet set is $220, and a set of door trims adds a further $500 to the tally. The killer punch could be landed by the cracked dash pad, with replacements costing $700. An alternative could be a cap, with good ones retailing for under $200. It would present extremely well if the buyer also hit the gauge fascia with some plastic dye during the restoration. The seller indicates they recently replaced the air conditioning compressor, and the system now blows ice-cold.
Lifting the hood reveals why this SS could be an effective tow vehicle. Its drivetrain configuration includes a 454ci big-block V8, a three-speed Turbo 400 automatic transmission, power steering, and power front disc brakes. That V8 should produce 245hp, which would launch the El Camino through the ¼ in 15.5 seconds. However, the engine torque could prove this motor’s strongest attribute. It churns out an incredible 375 ft/lbs at 2,200rpm, making this a flexible package. The seller indicates that the SS has 76,000 original miles on the clock, but not whether they hold verifying evidence. They say it runs and drives well and is ready to hit the road with the new owner behind the wheel.
The rust-free status of this 1973 El Camino SS makes it a prime candidate for a DIY restoration. The big-block under the hood adds to its attraction, offering the possibility of breathtaking performance or making it a potentially effective tow vehicle. If anything surprises me about this classic, it is that only twenty-three people are watching the listing. However, the BIN price looks competitive when we consider what is on offer, making me believe that someone might hit the button pretty soon. Are you tempted to beat them to the punch?
My Name is Earl
This is a rare model. Id personally prefer a coupe 73SS, However, there was also an SS package available on the 73 chevelle wagon too. The manual transmission is the holy grail of this model year too.
“The seller doesn’t indicate why the SS wears one odd fender, but the original may have previously suffered damage” Ya think ? Its not like someone would say ” you know , a blue fender would really look nice on my red car”
It is missing some “SS” emblems on this one. Not too sure it is a legit SS.
I would rather replace a interior that needs repair anyday compared to replacing every fender and floor piece or rotted frame that you find on cars from a harsh climate,good price
With gas prices soaring toward the stratosphere, I don’t think I could afford to drive it but once a year. I filled up my 6 Liter 2003 Silverado earlier with 89 octane (because the 87 has ethanol in it) and it cost me $132.00. Could be the reason this person is selling, I heard earlier today that in some spots of California gas was as high as $10.00 a gallon. I also heard earlier this week from AAA that the worst is yet to come. Also on the news someone mentioned if a hurricane hits Louisiana or Galveston where the refineries are at the prices could hit $15.00 a gallon easy.