Refreshing! That’s one way I would describe this 1965 Chevrolet El Camino. I’ve been watching these 1964-1972 versions for some time now and find they usually fall into one of three categories: Pristine and ridiculously over-priced, poorly modded, and then junk. This example, however, is just nice. It has undergone some minor, tasteful modifications, is in a very clean condition, but it is a driver, one you can take out and use/enjoy. Once again, Curvette has found us an interesting subject, and this Ute, located in Vancouver, Washington, is available here on craigslist for $13,987.
Following three years of no production, Chevrolet’s El Camino was in its second year of A-body residency in ’65. Largely unchanged from its 1964 predecessor, the ’65 model sold well with about 34,000 copies, spread across standard and Custom trim levels, finding new homes. Unfortunately, this Chevy’s listing is light, stating, “This is a nice classic El Camino, runs strong, looks good,” and that’s about it. I will agree with the looks, the finish, which is likely a repaint, is sound with good depth. The chrome bits and trim have lustre, the body panels are straight, and there’s no sign of rust – public enemy number one with this vintage A-body. The cargo bed has a cover – a nice feature, but I’d like to snag a look at the underlying floor. Rounding out the exterior vibe are Cragar S/S-style wheels, perfect for a domestic from this era.
The listing mentions a “283. V8. Power glide Auto.” powertrain, so that puts it in standard 195 gross HP territory. The engine, however, has obviously been modified with an aluminum intake manifold, replacement carburetor, open-element air cleaner, and chrome-plated valve covers. There’s nothing radical going on here; the cylinder heads, based on the casting mark, are the original power-pack variety, there are no headers, just standard iron manifolds feeding a dual exhaust system – all these modifications are minor but surely enhance the driving experience.
What do we find inside? A spic and span, original-looking environment that has probably experienced reupholstering and carpet replacement. Some under-dash engine gauges have been added, but beyond that, suddenly it’s 1965 all over again. One item’s originality that I’m not certain of, however, is the center fold-down armrest. I couldn’t find an option listing for that. Regardless, it’s a welcome addition.
So, will the El Camino, Ford Ranchero, or a variation of either ever make a comeback? Despite internet teasers in the affirmative, it’s unlikely. The market just doesn’t seem to be there, though it’s logical to think that smaller pickups would be a welcome alternative to the hugely gargantuan trucks being marketed by the Detroit two and a half these days. That being the case, I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting for the likes of this ute to reappear. No worries, however, this example seems reasonably priced and is available today – the seller is even open to offers. I like it, how about you?
Though not a “slip-slide Powerglide” fan, that’d be easy to overlook with the rest of this honey of a ride being this nice. That it’s very reasonably priced doesn’t hurt either especially for a clean driver quality ride.
The 1st gen Chevelles, always a favorite in our garage, have always been a little underrated IMO so that may be another reason for the reasonableness price wise and this one is a winner.
Even though the ad is less than informative, the price is attractive enough that you go see it in person if you are interested. If it’s as nice in person as it looks in the pictures, it won’t last long.
Steve R
Cream puff, someone should jump on it.
This one will not last long at that price. This one is clean and unmolested and mostly all original that has survived the times. Cragar rims are nice but I like chevy ralley rims. Nice to see power steering and power brakes here too.
owner looks to be very talkative in his ad. i would be losing the wheels and the bed cover though. price seems fair
That center armrest bench seat is probably not original, didn’t see that often on Chevrolets from that era. If not someone did a really nice job upholstering it to match. Power steering and brakes are a nice plus. Add vintage air for a complete cruising package. I’d ask for under car pics were it not on the other side of the world.
One thing that is often overlooked is that the interiors of Buicks and Oldsmobiles of the same series are usually much higher quality than the Chevy’s and are bolt in swaps. A big upgrade for little money.
Yep, and Pontiac.
283, 4 barrel, dual exhaust was rated at 220 HP. The better intake and carb are probably worth another 5 or so. Probably has 3:31 rear gears. Put in a 200 4R, pretty much a bolt in, and drive.
Yeah, but that engine RPO L77, was rare in ’65. It was a mid-year reintroduction (it was available in ’64). The 195 HP version is much more common. Standard axle ratio with the 195 HP engine was 3.08 and 3.36 with the 220 HP version (3.31 is a twelve-bolt ratio; this Ute would have a ten).
JO
Yea, I had a 64 (Malibu SS not EC) with the 220. Said it right on the breather. I never saw another one. Of course factory 4 brl, dual exhaust 283s were not a common sight by then.
Great write-up, as usual Jim! beautiful El Camino, and priced to move at that condition. You are right on with your assessment of the El Camino market–it seems to be junk or showcar, and this one is reasonably priced and looks like a good deal. Hard to find one right in that sweet zone of turn-key and rust free and not over-priced. I bought my ’68 in 2019 for 10K and two years later 10K buys you rusted out junk! Motor on!!!
Wondering if the seat isn’t out of a small Pontiac, Buick or Oldsmobile? I like the seat!
Too bad about the automatic, but that could be changed. There has been a bit of a comeback of car based pickups, Maverick and a Hundai something, but they both have 4 doors and a tiny bed. Give me a 2 door with a little storage behind the seat, a 6 foot bed and a manual transmission and I’d be buying. Don’t tell me how big the screen is, as I don’t want a screen, just some guages. It’s not going to happen though.
This would be the one to get. Nice condition and not screwed around with.
The bed cover looks cheesy, makes me what are they trying to hide.
A buy in my book…..does say offers……
This is a great deal. Centuries ago I had a 64 El Camino with a 65 nose and a 327. Someone threw in a Powerglide but left the clutch pedal. I changed it back with a three speed and a floor stick. It was fun and I wouldn’t mind this one.