As pickup trucks continue to gain popularity and market share as everyday drivers, so do their predecessors as collectibles. And among the most popular varieties are ’67-’72 Chevrolet C10s (Action Line) and their corresponding GMC stable-mates. That being the case, today, for your review, I have a 1968 Chevy C10 that’s in sound and complete condition. Yeah, it has that unfortunate “patina thing” going on, but let’s consider it existentially and see what else it has to offer. Fredericksburg, Texas, is where you’ll find this 1/2 ton long-bed, and it’s available here on eBay for a BIN price of $15,500. There is a make-an-offer option available, too.

Today’s subject is the less popular long-bed version of Chevrolet’s always-in-demand C10; apparently, the big money is with the short-bed version. There’s enough of a value disparity that some restorers have made their mark by converting long-bed trucks (127″ wheelbase) into the more valuable shorter-bed variety (115″ wheelbase). The seller claims that this C10 is a two-owner truck, and adds, “It’s a true Southern survivor that’s never been over-restored or disguised; what you see is the real deal.” As for its obvious patinaed finish, we’re told, “The factory Saddle paint and solid Fleetside body give this truck an irresistible patina – the kind that can’t be replicated with paint. It’s not perfect, and that’s exactly why people love it.” OK, so this one’s not wearing a “manufactured” look, but I gather its originality has been preserved with clear coat. Structurally, this truck shows well; no noted indication of rot is evident, though there is a Bondo patch in the lower passenger side of the cab. Fortunately, the cargo bed reveals just some surface rust and nothing more invasive than that – originality does abound!

Powertrain-wise, we have a first-year 200 gross HP, 307 CI V8 engine paired with a three-speed manual (three-on-the-tree) transmission. The seller suggests that the 79 K-mile motor “runs with that smooth, unmistakable small-block Chevy character.” If you look closely, you can see where this small-block V8 was originally equipped with an A.I.R. pump. The supporting bracket is still attached, and the ports in the exhaust manifolds have been plugged.

The interior’s bench seat has been reupholstered in correct patterned material, and the rubber floor mat is a replacement, but the remainder of the environment shows as being untouched. The seller mentions that the weatherstripping and door sills are new, and states, “Everything works as it should – lights, blinkers, horn, and a new radio and speaker system add a touch of modern functionality. The heater core will need replacement for heat…”

I found this listing comment to be interesting: “Other original-style features include manual steering and drum brakes all around, giving it the pure, mechanical feel that modern trucks just can’t replicate.” Well, I’d suggest that it’s a good thing that modern trucks don’t replicate the “feel” of manual drum brakes, but I get what the seller is trying to convey. Other than the patinaed finish, I’d say this truck is a nice find, if for no other reason than its not-messed-with originality. Even the pricing seems more reasonable than I would have initially expected. And, regarding that matter, what’s your thought, priced right or not quite?