1966 Chevrolet El Camino

Description

This 1967 El Camino is one of those cars that brings a smile to everyone's face. Perhaps the El Camino's time has passed, but it represents one of the last truly new ideas in the automotive kingdom. A practical utility vehicle based on one of the most potent muscle cars of the era, complete with a matching-numbers big block and a 4-speed? Where do I sign up?

This particular Elky sports a coat of Madeira Maroon paint, giving it an elegant look that perfectly contrasts with its sporty attitude. It's very straight overall, suggesting that this trucklet never had to work for a living, and there are virtually zero waves in those giant panels that comprise the bed sides. There are a few signs of use, and you really shouldn't be afraid to put this Elky to work now and then, it won't mind. With that in mind, the bed was given a spray-on bedliner that's both durable and practical, and fortunately the guys doing the work did an exemplary job of masking off the shiny bits, so it look crisp and fresh. You'll also note that the chrome and trim is bright and clean, proper badges have been reinstalled, and the overall look is very stock, without so much as a fake SS badge to be seen anywhere.

From behind the wheel, you could easily imagine that you're at the helm of a big block Chevelle SS, because it offers bucket seats, a console, and a 4-speed stick right in the middle. The upholstery is older but correct, using factory style patterns and materials, and while it relegates the El Camino to a 2-seater, I don't think anyone will complain. The carpets, door panels, and dash trim are indeed replacements and look awesome. The wide instrument panel and 3-spoke steering wheel are pure GM performance in the '60s, and a set of auxiliary gauges have been added under the dash and complement the factory clock in the console. It's not too heavy on options, with the original owner instead focusing on performance, but there's a factory AM radio in the dash, although its inoperative status means this truck is ripe for an upgrade. There's also a modest storage area behind the seats and heavy-duty floor mats to protect the carpets.

The engine is the original, numbers-matching L35 396 cubic inch V8 that has been well-dressed for duty in the El Camino's engine bay. Rebuilt about 350 miles ago, it's fresh and ready to rock, although with the lightweight bed out back, putting the power down is going to always be a challenge. Satin black inner fenders are a great background for the Chevy Orange engine which is further dressed up with chrome valve covers and a chrome air cleaner with reproduction decals. Power upgrades include an upgraded camshaft whose idle sounds awesome, and a set of long-tube headers dumping into a Flowmaster dual exhaust system. You'll also note a big radiator, heavy-duty cooling fan, and all-new hoses, belts, plugs, and wires. A 4-speed manual gearbox spins a set of 4.11 gears in the 12-bolt rear, suggesting that this Elky was built for combat, not service. It's quite clean underneath and sits just right on proper Rally wheels and staggered 225/60/15 front and 245/60/15 rear blackwall radials.

In terms of clean, fun cruisers that are also immensely practical, this El Camino is an excellent choice. And with a big block, 4-speed, and matching-numbers, it could also be considered a smart investment. Call today!