Next Big Thing? 1981 Chevrolet K5 Blazer

I have a thought that Chevrolet’s K5 two-door Blazer, such as this 1981 example, could become the next “big” thing in terms of collectibility. It’s similar to the Chevy Square Body pickup (’73-’87), from which it’s derived, and a currently popular truck, but the Blazer incorporates the popular SUV theme – and does it with two doors instead of four. Let’s review this resident of Grove City, Ohio, and give it proper consideration. Those with an interest will find it here on eBay, where it’s available for a current no-reserve bid of $2,033 with fifteen bids tendered so far.

Introduced in 1969, Chevrolet’s K5 Blazer continued production through 1994. The vehicle continued in 1995, now wearing the “Tahoe” moniker, though the two-door version was discontinued after the 1999 model year. Blazersforsale.com states that 1981 saw a production total of 23,635 units; not the nadir, but comparatively, not a robust output either. The seller of this claimed 71 K-mile example states, “This is a very solid project with a sturdy floor and chassis, needing just a few touches to become a great truck, mostly cosmetics…” Yes, visual presentation is not this truck’s strong suit. The finish is mottled and has been poorly touched up in places, but the body panels appear to be straight, and there’s no sign of invasive rot. There is an image or two of this Blazer’s underside, and it looks sound. A good exterior cleaning is really in order – it would do wonders to assist in making an external assessment.

The seller mentions, “It features a newer engine with a Holley carburetor…” but doesn’t state what it is. The listing claims a 5.7-liter V8 (a 350 CI unit), but the VIN states a 150 net HP 305 CI V8 as original equipment, so my guess is that a 350 is now holding court in the engine room. The seller claims, “It starts and drives, but will need a full service.” A Turbo-Hydramatic automatic transmission handles the gear-changing responsibilities.

The interior is a bit rough. The front buckets are from something else, the door panels are missing, the carpet is MIA, some parts/trim from the dash are dislodged or not present, and the dashpad has seen better days. The gray fabric upholstered rear seat is in nice and clean condition, but it may not be original to this Blazer.

So, will these K5 Blazers be the next collectible thing? It’s hard to say with certainty, though I suppose recent selling prices may give some direction. This example, so far, is hanging out in reasonable bid territory, though it still has about three days to go. What’s your thought on this matter? Is this ’81 Blazer one to consider?