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.
I’d have to get rid of those stripes.
It looks amazing. I remember seeing a couple of Malibus with this same color combination for the paint and vinyl top. Anything is possible as far as that powertrain is concerned. At first I thought maybe it had a 250 straight six with the 3 speed, but it very well could’ve come with that 350. I like it.
Nice little truck, and with 3 on the tree to boot. I’d get rid of the fancy valve covers and air cleaner and take it back to stock. Otherwise, I’d just drive and enjoy it. I really miss the El Caminos and Rancheros.
Nice little truck, and with 3 on the tree to boot. I get rid of the fancy valve covers and air cleaner and take it back to stock. Otherwise, I’d just drive and enjoy it. I really miss the El Caminos and Rancheros.
3 on the tree V8 Camino. Don’t see those everywhere.
3 speed manual was only available with the 6, small blocks with the 2bbl or the 402 4bbl. No power brakes – I don’t even spy a power steering pump. 4bbl intake/carb and dual exhaust give it a little more scoot. Lots of green shades – the bright white stripes look a little forced, but it’s not easy being green…
Too bad there’s no VIN. It would be interesting to know if it originally came with a V8.
As an old guy with an adolescent mind I find this to be just fine. Windows down, radio up and the wind through my hair.
nice-looking camino. the hood needs a repaint. looks like it has not had too much monkey business done to it but has had some. i would put a 350 turbo in it. sticks are no fun in a congested living area. price seems fair a bit less would be great.
Naah, hairyolds…if you’re gonna change the tranny, go 4 on the floor. You’re gonna end up there anyway, 3 on the trees just wear out and you end up locked in 2nd. Or…you power into 2nd and the gearshift comes off in your hand (ask me how I know thanks to my dad’s 69 pickup). It would be kinda cool to have though, just because you never see them. Sweet El Camino though! Just drive it unless it breaks..
You are right, a 4spd would be an upgrade. For whatever reason 3spd column shifts get a lot of love on this site, in the real world it a repellent for many potential buyers.
Steve R
Hmmm. My brother just sent me a posting for a T10 close ratio with Hurst shifter and linkage…
Would look a lot better with a Black vinyl roof.
I saw this one in Eureka back in 2017.Cool car.