If I had a dollar for every classic I’ve seen upgraded from a six-cylinder motor to a V8, I could probably afford to bid on this 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. What makes this classic unusual is that the seller has headed in the opposite direction with one of the most unusual transplants you will ever see. It may now only have a six under the hood, but its performance will be mighty impressive. I must say a big thank you to Barn Finder Les for spotting the El Camino listed here at Hagerty in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. Bidding sits at $9,999 with all bids in US dollars.
As with its predecessor, Chevrolet based the Third Generation El Camino on the then-current Chevelle. The first examples hit showroom floors in 1968, while our featured classic rolled off the line when the company performed a facelift in 1971. The word “striking” springs to mind when describing its appearance. The panels are laser-straight, cloaked in stunning Burgundy Wine paint. It has a depth of color and shine that you could walk into, although the seller’s comprehensive image gallery reveals a few minor paint imperfections and bubbles. However, the El Camino remains exceptionally presentable, and the winning bidder can address the shortcomings at their leisure. The trim and glass are spotless, and the headlights are updated LED units. Rounding out the exterior and making a further bold visual statement are the 18″ American Racing wheels.
Lifting the El Camino’s hood reveals an almighty surprise. Those expecting a V8 will be shocked to discover that the six occupying the engine bay isn’t even a GM product. The builder created this classic for the All Supra Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and that’s the clue. They utilized Toyota’s 3.0-liter 2JZ-GTE VVT-i inline-six. This turbocharged DOHC powerplant produced 320hp and 315 ft/lbs of torque when bolted beneath a Supra’s hood. However, their decision to replace the original twin-turbo system with a larger Precision 6766 turbocharger should increase output. This beast sends its power to a Currie 9″ limited-slip rear end via a six-speed CD009 manual transmission. Add an AEM Infinity-6 standalone ECU, enormous upgraded Wilwood four-wheel disc brakes, and a list of suspension improvements and chassis bracing, and the creator has clearly adopted a “total package” approach. Although it’s not stated, the El Camino appears to be a turnkey proposition.
This El Camino’s interior features a mix of standard trim pieces and custom touches. It retains its factory door trims, headliner, and basic dash structure. However, additions include deeply sculpted leather bucket seats, a four-spoke Grant wood-rim wheel, a custom console, and an AEM digital instrument cluster. The condition is pretty tidy, with no major wear or other problems. The leather looks supple, but the custom fascia for the instrument cluster has a couple of rough edges that are unexpected from a custom of this caliber. However, any perceived interior faults would require more time than money to address.
I know that many Barn Finds readers feel that there’s nothing as great as a thumping V8, so it will be interesting to gauge your responses to this 1971 Chevrolet El Camino. The engine swap is unusual, blending American charm with Japanese high-tech performance. I know it won’t appeal to everyone, but I will be fascinated to see whether any Barn Finders are so intrigued by this classic that they plan to join the bidding. I’d wish you luck if you do.
This is a great looking ElCamino. The engine choice is definitely not at all what I expected. When Adam started off about a six cylinder I was expecting a Diesel truth be told. Nice job with the surprise Adam!!! I’d be very interested in how the work was done. And how it runs and drives. I’m sure its got to be very quick. I’m not sure how right I would be here, but if that Toyota 6 cylinder weighs less than a Chevy big block, or even a small block, you’d have a good weight distribution here. Definitely would start some interesting conversations at a Cars and Coffee for sure.
Since I have nothing nice to say, I won’t say anything at all.
We’ve seen American Iron wedged into various British, European and Asian machinery-now, in turn, one bridging that with a different twist. Appears to be nice work and would definitely turn heads at any car meet, be it any of the above.
Interesting catch, Les! And excellent write up as always, Adam, especially as one that completely demands a look from a different perspective.
Not a fan. The 68 to 72 El Caminos were the absolute best of the best the way they came off the showroom floor.
But that’s just me and my humble opinion.