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Unfinished Project: 1970 Chevrolet El Camino

The seller describes this 1970 Chevrolet El Camino as an unfinished project, and it has sure generated some interest in the classic community. It presents well as a driver-quality vehicle, and its healthy drivetrain means the new owner could enjoy it immediately while adding the final touches at their leisure. The El Camino is listed here on eBay in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The seller set a BIN of $19,500 but will entertain offers.

Chevrolet introduced the Third Generation El Camino in 1968, producing it until 1972. The new model was based on the Chevelle station wagon underpinnings, meaning buyers could select from many of that model’s options when ordering their new El Camino. Despite the badges, the seller indicates this vehicle isn’t a genuine SS. That doesn’t detract from what it offers, which includes plenty of positive news. They describe the Shadow Gray paint as a seven or eight out of ten, which is a fair assessment. There are no glaring faults or defects, and if the buyer elects to retain this El Camino as a driver-quality classic, it should serve effectively in that role. The body looks straight, with the rear quarters replaced and repainted around fifteen years ago. The bed looks surprisingly good for a vehicle of this type, with no significant marks or signs of abuse. One of this Chevy’s greatest strengths is its lack of rust. The exterior is clean, and there is no evidence of any problems on the underside. Complementing the dark paint shade is sparkling trim and chrome, while Magnum 500-style wheels with SS center caps and trim rings add a muscular finishing touch to the exterior. The Cowl Induction hood indicates this El Camino might be more than a pretty face.

The overall tidy presentation of this El Camino continues when we examine the only interior shot. It has no immediate needs, although addressing a few details would lift the appearance to a higher level. The lower dash pad alignment is out, requiring adjustment for a better fit. The upper pad has avoided cracking and UV damage, with the interior featuring new door trims. There is wear and discoloring on the seatcover, but with no rips or tears, it is serviceable. The seller indicates the carpet requires replacement, which would lighten the buyer’s wallet by around $220. The photos suggest that the new owner could address any interior shortcomings without needing to spend money on professional assistance.

The Cowl Induction hood doesn’t flatter to deceive because lifting it reveals a rebuilt 396ci V8 that pumped out 325hp when new. It may improve on that figure courtesy of a better Competition Cam and a Pete Jackson gear drive to improve durability. Backing that V8 are a three-speed automatic transmission and a 12-bolt 3.42 Posi rear end. Considering the close relationship between the El Camino and the Chevelle, it would be fair to expect this classic to return a sub-15-second ¼-mile ET comfortably. Its big-block inhales deeply via a Holley carburetor, while spent gases exit through Hooker headers and a Flowmaster exhaust. The recently rebuilt transmission features a shift kit for clean and decisive ratio changes, while the front end received new bushes and a larger sway bar. The only change I would consider might be a brake upgrade. Stopping duties fall to four-wheel power drum brakes, and the performance potential of this El Camino might warrant front discs.

Some classics leave a question mark over their desirability, but this 1970 El Camino causes no such doubts. It is a solid and clean vehicle that offers a winning combination of practicality and outright performance. That partly explains why 204 people are watching the listing. Considering its overall condition and specifications, the price looks on the money. If you are considering admitting it into your life, it could be worth making a respectful offer. After all, what is the worst the seller can say?

Comments

  1. angliagt angliagt Member

    Nice car,er truck,er…. The ’70-’72’s are the best looking ones
    (in my opinion).Always wanted one,but it never worked out.

    Like 4
    • Moparman Moparman Member

      Nice “caruck”! There, fixed that for you! LOL!! :-)

      Like 2
      • angliagt angliagt Member

        “Ute” really know what you’re talking about!

        Like 2
      • Bolivar Shagnasty

        We El Camino owners prefer “Cruck”.. There.. I fixed that for you!

        Like 4
  2. angliagt angliagt Member

    Here’s a really nice ’71 I saw in Eureka in 2017.

    Like 0
  3. Joe Flannery

    SS Clone. Note the dashboard

    Like 2
  4. Tim

    More Two-Lane Blacktop..
    Cigar chomping Tennessean with black El Camino: “That’s a b*tch of a car.”
    ’55 Driver (Taylor) : “Yours ain’t so bad either.”

    Like 0
  5. BA

    While this certainly is a top 10 vehicle in the classic style I would refrain from crowning this Rat as the top Cat as many of us recall a 1971 Corvette LS5 454, 4 speed , side pipe headers , Holley double pumper for just a few Shekels more in my book is way more! And forget about being confused on am I a truck or a car but I must admit a Rat is a Rat & hard to beat

    Like 0
  6. PRA4SNW

    Relisted, and then SOLD – Best Offer Accepted.

    Like 0

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