Older Restoration: 1972 Chevrolet El Camino

Launched in 1959-60, the full-size Chevy El Camino “Ute” (utility coupe) then took three years off. When it returned in 1964, it became a mid-size based on the new Chevelle intermediate. It held that position through its retirement in 1987. Located in Kernersville, North Carolina, this restored beauty looks like it could be driven anywhere. It’s available here on Facebook Marketplace for $17,000 and may only need a new home. Thanks for the cool tip, “Cheetahkins”.

The El Camino began as a station wagon-based pickup to compete against the Ford Ranchero (1957 to 1979). When the “Chevies” of 1959-60 had run their course, the GM division opted not to continue with the El Camino in 1961 (due to low sales?). But it returned later and outlived the product it was designed to mimic. The Ranchero went through three iterations: full-size to compact (Falcon), and finally mid-size (Fairlane). The El Camino almost always outsold the Ranchero. The 1972 model year was the El Camino’s best sales year up to that point (including the Sprint, its GMC counterpart).

We’re told this Chevy was restored about four years ago – and it looks it. It has the requisite 350 cubic inch V8 (numbers matching?) but with a 3-speed manual transmission, perhaps a bit unusual even for the ‘70s. The mileage is 24,000, but we assume the odometer is on its second time around. But it seems to more than hold its own.

The seller rattles off a list of the newer parts, which we assume were replaced with the restoration. That includes the green paint, interior components, engine accessories, and the tires. This is a good-looking truck that the seller feels confident that it would be a reliable traveling partner. Or the perfect companion for occasional visits to the home improvement center.