Sometimes, the best word to describe a classic is “honest.” That term seems to encapsulate this 1979 Chevrolet Blazer Cheyenne. The seller doesn’t attempt to paint it as something it isn’t. They admit it isn’t perfect, but it is a solid and clean vehicle with a genuine 63,000 miles on the clock. The Blazer is a turnkey proposition ideal for anyone with visions of summer adventures dancing in their head. The seller has listed this SUV here on eBay in Tyler, Texas. The solitary bid of $20,000 is below the reserve, although there is a BIN option of $35,000.
The Second Generation Blazer enjoyed a long production run, gracing showroom floors from 1973 until 1991. This Cheyenne rolled off the Fremont, California, line in 1979 and has spent its life in a dry climate. Therefore, its lack of penetrating rust is unsurprising. The seller admits it has surface corrosion on a few edges but nothing demanding immediate attention. Its Midnight Black paint looks pretty impressive. It isn’t baked or checked and only has minor chips and scratches. The overall presentation is extremely tidy for a vehicle of this type and age, suggesting it has been treated respectfully and not abused. The dark paint is contrasted by chrome and trim that shows no evidence of damage or deterioration, and the tinted glass is flawless. The package is rounded out by the factory Rally wheels, wrapped in chunky BF Goodrich tires.
Buyers faced a range of engines to power their 1979 Blazer, but this classic’s first owner selected the range-topping 400ci V8. It produces a healthy 185hp and 300 ft/lbs of torque, which feeds to the wheels via a three-speed automatic transmission and a dual-range transfer case. The term “healthy” is relative because this Blazer greeted the world at the height of The Malaise Era when emission regulations strangled engines. However, with most of the power and torque produced low in the V8’s rev range, it should crawl into rough locations fairly effortlessly or make effective use of the hitch receiver. The seller claims the Chevy has a genuine 63,000 miles showing on the odometer, and it appears they hold verifying evidence. They are its second owner and believe the vehicle may have received an engine change before they became its custodian. Potential buyers will welcome the news it is a turnkey proposition that runs and drives perfectly. Flying in and driving home should be a viable option for the winning bidder to consider.
Considering the condition of the rest of this Blazer, its interior is slightly disappointing. It is unquestionably serviceable, but there are numerous shortcomings. The most positive news is that it hasn’t achieved the “baked” appearance common for vehicles from this location. However, the Red vinyl seatcovers have a few small holes, the pad is cracked in several spots, and the carpet exhibits wear below the driver’s feet. None of the problems are insurmountable, and a creative new owner could disguise them without spending a fortune. Slipcovers for the seats, a cover for the pad, and a new carpet set would make a world of difference. The seller admits the vehicle now features air conditioning from Vintage Air. I believe the original radio has left the building to be replaced by an aftermarket unit with speakers cut into the rear trim panels.
This 1979 Chevrolet Blazer Cheyenne isn’t perfect, but I agree with the seller’s assessment that it could present exceptionally well with minimal effort. Its strongest attribute could be its rust-free status, although its drivetrain combination promises years of reliable motoring adventure. I am surprised it has only received one bid, but there is time for that situation to change. I would typically suggest a possible sale price at this point, but the ball is in your court this time. Do you think it will reach the BIN figure, or is a lower price more realistic? Over to you.
Looks good – what do you guys see – is that a GM Goodwrench replacement motor ? At 63,000 miles ?
This is one of the nicer K5s I have seen lately. It is relatively well optioned, with the 400, A/C, tilt, locking diff, sliding windows in the top, and Cheyenne pkg. The only obvious options missing are the power windows (including rear), and black bumper strips. This one is largely unmolested, and still has the (usually long-gone) inside spare tire mount. The faded seats would likely respond well to a re-dye treatment. I am hoping that the dash was not cut for the after-market stereo. I can live with the added rear speakers, as the original dash speakers don’t perform well by themselves. In that the engine is not original, I would want to check it closely. If it passes inspection, I would not be further concerned. It is also nice to see a vehicle for sale that is on fresh, good quality tires….they are usually either really old, or really cheap. It is also literally refreshing to see a vehicle with working (upgraded) A/C….. We often see the usual “A/C not working, needs charge”, that really means “needs compressor, receiver-drier, hoses, and maybe condenser and evap”.
To many, this K5 seems over-priced at $35K. Given it’s condition and originality, the price is actually in the ballpark.
I do like this K5, but for me, I would only consider up to 1975 models as they were the last of the full convertibles.
What makes you guys think the engine isn’t original ? Just wondering ?
Seller says “engine not believed to be original” in ebay ad.
“I do like this K5, but for me, I would only consider up to 1975 models as they were the last of the full convertibles……”
The market also favors the pre 75 full convertibles ( I have both ,plus a 72 )
The only way this one would be worth over $25k is if it was a 73 or 74 .
I just paid $10k for a loaded 78 ,in just as good shape .Seller should take the 20 and run ,if it’s a real bid.
I own a ‘77 that is a “ full convertible “.
My guess… The blazer either had an accident, engine fire, etc. if the original engine and original A/C has been replaced. Only a slight concern of mine if I knew the reason or story behind the replacements.
Otherwise, a very nice ride.
Could be it just sat to long. Lots of salty air in Texas. Many vehicles I’ve seen from there looked like they were from the Salt/ snow belt. This one looks nice.
Amazing! Rear roll bar is a great add.
Tyler, Tx if you didn’t know is oil country and this was most likely just an extra in town Blazer for someone with money. Trying to hold back telling my nephew who’s been looking at junk….he’s got the money.
Wow I like this one as it’s a near twin to the one I ordered new in 1977. Same colors but mine had every option available. Only downside was that it got 10mpg. Only paid about $9000 new.
full-time 4WD, ugh. Had my ’78 GMC converted to part-time