Well-Loved Camper Special: 1973 Chevrolet C20

This 1973 Chevrolet C20 Camper Special is a nicely preserved survivor that belonged to the original owner up until just recently after a lifetime spent camping, hunting, and fishing around the Pacific Northwest. The seller claims to be a former co-worker of that owner, and bought it off of him in the condition you see here. There are some mild enhancements, like the slotted mag wheels and KC driving lamps, along with some performance tweaks under the hood. Overall, while it’s not a time capsule, it’s super nice for a truck that was actually used, and I’m digging the appearance with those upsized wheels and snorty exhaust note courtesy of the upgraded cams and headers. Find it here on eBay where bidding is at $6,500 with no reserve.

To me, this C20 is right in the sweet spot of collector cars, as it’s not so nice that you’re paying for a showroom-spec example, but it’s also quite clearly been loved. The cabin features dash and seat covers, which help to hide some of the cracks that have come with age. Overall, they don’t detract from the presentation of the interior, which reflects the meticulous nature of the previous owner. The oil pressure gauge doesn’t work at present and the radio is inop, and there’s also a sticky passenger side window to deal with. Otherwise, it’s business as usual inside the cabin, but if you want the air horns to blat, you’ll have to fill the tanks with air before doing so.

The Chevy is located in Montana, which is a good thing considering the mudflaps proudly announce the state’s nickname. The body sports original Lime paint that the seller claims still cleans up well but has various touch-ups in places; he hasn’t attempted to buff it out, which is too bad considering it’d likely really pop with a good buffing. The inside of the bed is said to be in great shape owing to having a camper shell strapped on it for years, but the paint on top of the box rails has peeled away due to camper tape. The body sports some additional reflectors and lighting out back; no word if it works. The seller does disclose that the killer KC driving lights up front don’t currently work – hopefully, it’s just a wiring issue.

The original 350 has been tuned up with some aftermarket components, including RV cams, headers, and Judson Magneto coil. The driving videos in the listing confirm this Chevy has a sweet exhaust note that sounds good under hard acceleration. Both fuel tanks are noted as functioning, but there is a leak at the fuel filler neck. Tires are older but still have good tread, and the original steel wheels (no hubcaps) will be included with the sale if the next owner wants them. I love the looks of this Camper Special, which goes to show you that it doesn’t take a lot to make these trucks look and sound good. Do you think bidding will clear $10K for this better-than driver-quality C20?