I always respect custom builds, especially when the creator shows an eye for fine details. That is what initially attracted me to this stunning 1960 Chevrolet El Camino. The seller successfully combined modern technology with old-school touches, guaranteeing that this vehicle will draw crowds wherever it goes. I must say a big thank you to eagle-eyed Barn Finder Mitchell G. for spotting a vehicle where its next journey could be to a new home. The seller has listed this El Camino here on Craigslist in Irwin, Pennsylvania. They set their price at $45,000 for a classic that appears to need nothing.
While Pickups were not new within the American automotive landscape, the Coupé Utility concept first appeared in Australia in 1934. Ford released the North American Ranchero in 1957, with Chevrolet following two years later with the El Camino. Our feature vehicle rolled off the line in 1960 and is the product of a lot of hard work and what I suspect was a significant cash investment. The seller indicates that the build included replacing the floors, quarter panels, and the front fenders. The rust-free body was treated to an intense massaging to ensure that the panels were straight before being coated with stunning Thistle Metallic, which is a Dark Plum shade that was applied using a clear-over-base process. Every bright trim piece was refurbished or replaced to accentuate the paint shade. One wonderful old-school touch is the chrome wheels, which are 15″ reversed items produced by Wheel Smith. The wheels are wrapped in narrow whitewalls, and the glass is clear and free from obvious flaws. One modern touch is the remote release system for the doors, eliminating the handles for a smooth appearance.
This El Camino’s interior features a wonderful blend of old and new. The roll-and-pleat Plum and White upholstery is a real 1960s touch, complimented by a matching reproduction Impala wheel. The dash houses a set of Autometer gauges, along with dazzling bright trim and upgraded LED illumination for the turn signals and high/low beam indicators. A modern stereo provides in-vehicle entertainment, Vintage air conditioning provides a comfortable motoring experience, and the Lokar shifter makes selecting the correct ratio a breeze. The overall presentation is seemingly as flawless as the exterior, with no evidence of wear or other problems. I feel that this interior will receive as much attention as the exterior wherever this classic goes.
Buyers could order their 1960 El Camino with a V8 under the hood, although this one takes the concept a step further. The builder slotted in a 350ci Crate Motor, and while its specifications are unclear, potential buyers should consider at least 300hp as a realistic output figure. Shifting duties are performed by a three-speed TH350 that feeds the power to a 3.55 rear end. The seller created this build as a total package, performing significant upgrades to the steering, suspension, and brakes. They used tried and true products from companies like Right Stuff, Adelphi, and Sanderson, maximizing the chances that the El Camino will provide years of safe and reliable motoring. Potential buyers should consider it a turnkey proposition with no mechanical needs or shortcomings.
This 1960 El Camino is a stunning custom build that will cause its new owner immense pride. Its seemingly flawless presentation and old-school touches show an admirable eye for detail. The seller’s price looks very realistic, especially if you consider what it would cost to recreate an identical vehicle from scratch. This El Camino has been on the market for over three weeks, and it will be fascinating to monitor the listing to discover how quickly it will find a new home. Are you tempted?
Nice car, always liked these but with all the upgrades they have done to it I have to wonder if it still retains the driveshaft with the carrier bearing in it. I seem to remember those carriers being a problem if you drove them too hard
It’s a nice build, but I wouldn’t call it stunning.
This would be right at home in any American Grafitti genre movie-and worth the price of admission in my book. What a nice ride and very well done, or maybe just really taken care after it was redone. Whatever the case anyone with an appreciation of this style can also appreciate the work it took to get it to this point then keep it up.
In the ad there’s a shot from the rear that hints how the sun plays on the colors, but everything is kinda muted in the all the photos. The seller could really benefit from hiring a professional photographer; it is well worth the money when selling a higher-dollar car like this.
My only complaint is the loss of the original gauges. Well, a set of Cragars would been nice.
Wow
I believe this is what was called a “mild custom”, in that, the vehicle is basically recognizable, unlike the full custom whatchamacallit, that most poo-pooed a while back. Grill, tail lights, wheels of some sort, maybe dual antennas and spots, but this vehicle pleases everyone, I hope, except of course, not for the shy of wallet. Beautiful, this is what the early 60s were all about. On vintage drag racing, many of these were used as “push start” vehicles.
The 2 piece drive shaft was used from 1958 through 1964 because of the “X” frame design. I have only seen failures when the bottom mounting plate of the support rusted through the spot welds AND when the center u-joint failed. Center support/2 piece drive shafts are used in many vehicles today. (Mostly longer length pick-up trucks) With no major issues
This is a very nice Retro-rod. Clean, tasteful and well thought out. I’d park it in my driveway!
My brother Bob had one when I was about 13, sold my 64 Elcamino and bought a 1960 when I was 16. Had it up to 140 MPH on a long straight stretch (slightly down hill) on the way to Snohomish high school one morning. Fun car, I wonder why I sold such cool cars back then. Probably wanted a 4 wheel drive or something.
I really like this car except for the taillights. There is a guy locally who added a 4th taillight on a 60 Impala which I don’t think much of either.