Some enthusiasts hesitate if confronted with another person’s project build when it comes to market. There’s always a worry that its shiny paint hides second-rate repairs that will come back and bite the new owner. I don’t believe that will be the case with this 1965 Chevrolet El Camino. The previous owner performed their build in the 1980s, and if rust and other nasty problems haven’t emerged after more than thirty years, it suggests they completed their work to a high standard. They parked it near completion, and the seller recently revived the Chevy so it can head to a new home. You will find it listed here on eBay in Beavercreek, Oregon. Bidding has raced beyond the reserve and sits at $5,655.

Chevrolet based the Second Generation El Camino on the Chevelle, introducing it to the public in 1964. The company initially dipped its toe in the water in 1959 and 1960 with an El Camino based on the Brookwood. First-year sales proved better than expected, but the numbers plummeted during 1960. Therefore, there was some trepidation within GM Management ranks as they unveiled the new model in 1964. The fears proved unfounded because even the worst year for the Second Generation variant produced 50% more sales than the best year for the First Generation. The seller discovered this El Camino in storage. It had occupied the same spot following a refurbishment performed by a previous owner in the 1980s. It is unclear whether the Ermine Ivory gracing its panels is the original shade or whether a color change occurred. The paint looks respectable for its age, but the lack of deterioration or emerging rust after over three decades suggests the workmanship is of a high standard. The panels are clean, and while the underside carries surface corrosion, there are only a few small rust spots requiring patches. The trim and glass look acceptable for a survivor-grade classic, and the Chevy rolls on a set of Torq Thrust-style wheels. The unpainted sections of these are oxidized but should respond well to a spot of elbow grease and a high-quality polish.

The VIN for this classic decodes to confirm it rolled off the line with a V8 under the hood. Chevrolet offered a couple of variants of its 283 and three of its legendary 327. It is unclear which motor originally occupied this El Camino’s engine bay, but it currently features a 283ci V8 of unknown specifications. Its power feeds to the rear wheels via a two-speed Powerglide transmission. Determining performance figures would be pure speculation, but it is worth remembering that due to the fact there is only about a 10lbs difference across the range between an El Camino and a similarly-equipped Chevelle, the figures should be comparable. The seller doesn’t indicate this El Camino is numbers-matching, although I wouldn’t rule out that possibility. The engine presents nicely, but we must remember the previous owner parked it in around 1989. The seller revived this classic, and it appears they may have added a new alternator and Edelbrock carburetor as part of the process. They say it runs and dives but needs work to become roadworthy. That sound like an excellent way to pass some time during the upcoming winter months.

One aspect of this El Camino requiring little is its interior. The previous owner replaced the upholstery as part of their build, which still presents exceptionally well. The same is true of the carpet and dash pad, while the faults are minor. The wheel center is missing, and there may be some color deterioration on the dash fascia. This second issue is difficult to confirm because an in-person inspection may reveal it is a trick of the light. If there are problems in that area, several manufacturers offer penetrating plastic dyes that could return the fascia to as-new without breaking the bank. The original owner didn’t load the interior with luxury items, but it looks like someone may have added an aftermarket AM radio.

I’ve always been a fan of these light pickups because of their versatility. These classics can carry or haul surprising loads, but they offer comfort close to that provided by the passenger car from which they’re derived. I like the “coupe utility” variants so much my daily driver is a good old Aussie Ford Falcon Ute. It has been my daily driver for eleven years, which is the longest I’ve ever owned a vehicle of any type. Those characteristics of comfort and versatility help it remain part of my life, and I suspect it will be my weapon of choice until I decide that I am no longer fit to slip behind the wheel. Many owners feel as I do, and if you’ve never considered allowing one into your life, this 1965 El Camino could be the perfect candidate to change that situation.