Realizing the success that Ford was experiencing from their Ranchero coupe utility offering, Chevrolet introduced the new El Camino in 1959 as a competitor, although the Ranchero got a 2-year head start. The El Camino was embraced by the buying public, with over half a million sold during its lifespan. The first generation models only had a two-year run, then the model took a short hiatus until the second generation vehicles came along in 1964, staying in production until 1967. Three more generations followed, with the final El Camino rolling off the assembly line in 1987. If you like the concept of a coupe utility and dig the look of a nearly 60-year-old patina, this 1964 Chevrolet El Camino may be worth a look. It’s located in San Leandro, California, and can be seen here on eBay with a current bid of $4,000, and a reserve still south of being reached.
Barn Finds would like to take this opportunity to thank reader Larry D. for another great tip on this one! The seller doesn’t give us a whole lot of background about his El Camino or how long he has owned it, but he does state that the Palomar Red paint is original, with a light coat of black primer on top of it. I’m not sure just how light the primer coat really is, but in any event, it’s the kind of patina that looks cool on a vintage El Camino.
The bed has definitely hauled a few things during its time, and there are a couple of small holes at the tailgate line, plus a couple of more holes near the roof-drip molding. There’s also a small dent on the driver’s side door and one near the right taillight. However, things underneath where it counts are said to be solid, with the floors, frame, and rockers stated to be rust-free.
The seller says that the original stamped numbers on the engine show it to be a 327 out of a 1965 Corvette, attached to a stock Powerglide transmission. There’s no word on whether or not either has ever had a rebuild, but the seller does say the El Camino runs and drives well and that there is no smoke, no oil leaks, and no water leaks. He goes on to say that the vehicle has been sitting for a while and could use some TLC.
Things inside don’t exactly look great, but for a driver, I guess it seems OK in there overall. No mention of if the gauges are functioning or anything other details about the interior, other than the headliner is new, but it’s sagging and could use some attention. What are your thoughts on this 1964 Chevrolet El Camino?
While I know much can happen to a vehicle over 60 years, especially something with truck-like utility and housing a small block, however I have my doubts that that engine came from a corvette. The grime on the steel valve convers (‘vette’s had aluminum) and otherwise completely stock appearance lends credence to the engine being original to the car, not a transplant. Casting numbers can often be misread, too.
Owner is asking $10K for a non-original. Location is right next to the San Francisco Bay which means rust and more rust. If viewing the vehicle, be aware of your surroundings. A heavy crime area depending on your location.
Nice try liar car dude…keep fishing…you’ll get a bite…
I wonder if a purchaser will keep the “patina” its worth saving.
Good pictures of the underside and no rust showing up top makes this one a better deal than it looks. At least there is something there to work with. If I had a Corvette engine for sale in those days i wouldn’t sell it with the aluminum valve covers either. A number check will tell all.