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The Chevrolet El Camino was an open-bed pickup truck produced by the American car manufacturer General Motors under the Chevrolet marque from 1958 to 1960 and again from 1964 to 1987. The name comes from Spanish and means "the way". Since the early 1970s, an identical sister model was sold by the General Motors brand GMC under the name Sprint, later as the Caballero.

 

Chevrolet El Camino - 1st Generation (1959-1960)

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The Chevrolet El Camino (Gen.1) is a coupe utility vehicle that was produced and marketed from 1959 to 1960.

The El Camino was a pickup-style passenger car that combined the dramatic styling of Chevrolet cars of the time with a Half-Ton pickup. Unlike a regular pickup, the El Camino was built on a two-door station wagon platform that integrated the cab and truck bed into the body.

The basic idea of ​​turning a passenger car into a commercial vehicle is almost as old as the automobile itself. And indeed, Chevy already had such a model in its range in the 1920s, which followed the trend that followed (mid-1930s) – on truck platforms to go over - but had to give way.

Then, in the mid-1955s, the manufacturer brought out the Chevy Pickup Cameo Carrier(a more luxurious truck model within the 3100 Series/Task Force) which eventually paved the way for the Chevrolet El Camino. While the Cameo was a truck in every respect, it already offered many elements typical of a passenger car - such as two-tone paint, a smooth V-8 engine, automatic transmission, a relatively luxurious interior, and power assistance.

It must have been particularly annoying for GM (General Motors) when their arch-rival Ford beat them here with their Ranchero (coupé pickup). At GM, the idea of ​​such a sedan pickup had been on the table since 1952, but it was never implemented.

In 1959 the time had finally come, the first Chevrolet with the Spanish name "El Camino" (in English: "the road") saw the light of day and was ultimately considered the answer to the Ranchero from Ford that had been introduced two years earlier.

 

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The coupe pickup El Camino was based on the '59 Chevrolet models of the time. The two-door station wagon Chevrolet Brookwood served as a platform, with only a slightly modified chassis.

On the body side, inspiration was drawn from the Impala sedan (absolutely identical down to the B-pillar), which didn't even do without the fashionable tail fins. The dimensions of 5.36 m 2.03 m 1.43 m (LxWxH) were relatively modest for a pickup, but the Chevrolet El Camino was no ordinary pack donkey.

The next step was in terms of equipment variants: Here the Bel-Air was used on the outside-Style - for example, tapered full-length bodyside moldings filled with Snowcrest White paint, and wide, light moldings across the side windows and rear roof edge. 

The interior, on the other hand, relied on the Biscayne trim, which was embossed with leather and patterned vinyl three-seat bench. Furthermore, customers could choose between three different interior colors: grey, green and blue.

The first-generation Chevrolet El Camino's unique roof design is reminiscent of various powerboats of the era, with its distinctive rear overhang and forward-leaning rear pillars.

The total glass area of ​​Chevy's coupe pickup was also amazing. At 4121 square inches (for such a relatively small cabin), this provided an exceptional all-around view and was like a greenhouse. Press releases at the time spoke of “control-tower visibility”.

 

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The end of the cabin formed a large curved rear window and a transverse wall, which also served to stiffen the body. This was followed by the open pickup tub, which was seamlessly integrated into the body (capacity 934 liters) and was the first Chevrolet pickup to be built with a steel bed floor instead of wood. This consisted of a corrugated iron insert that was attached with 26 countersunk screws.

Underneath was the floorpan of the two-door Brookwood wagon. The fold-down tailgate (also adopted from the Brookwood station wagon) provided an additional loading area, which, when opened, represented an extended loading level and thus permitted freight up to 2.31 meters in length.

The payload of the El Camino ranged from around 650 to 1150 lbs, with a permissible total weight of approx. 4398 to 4900 lbs (depending on the respective drive train and chassis).

The slightly too soft car suspension of the basic model, however, caused the vehicle to buckle very quickly when loading and ultimately made it almost impossible to drive.

Here the Ford version of Ranchero was a little better equipped. Equipped with harder high-performance rear-wheel springs, its standard payload was already 500 kg.

From the second and last year of the 1st generation (1960), Chevrolet offered a somewhat bizarre option with air suspension. However, this has not been seen on any Chevrolet model, let alone an El Camino.

 

Engines

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The first edition of the Chevrolet El Camino already had a number of available powertrains.

 

There was a choice of engines:

  • 3.9-litre straight-six with: 99 kW/135 hp
  • 4.6-litre V8 with either: 125 kW/170 hp, 169 kW/230 hp, 184 KW/250 hp
  • 5.7 -litre V8 with either: 184 KW/250, 206 kW/280 hp, 224 kW/305 hp, 235 kW/320 hp, 239 kW/325 hp

 

Depending on the engine, the customer could choose between a 3-speed manual transmission (also with overdrive), 4-speed manual transmission, a Powerglide two-speed automatic, or the seamlessly shifting Turboglide automatic.

 

1960 Facelift

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In 1960, the first generation of the Chevrolet El Camino underwent a facelift. Above all, the Chevy sedan pickup had to endure the extensive bodywork changes of the Impala, which made it smaller and simpler.

For example, the fins at the rear became flatter, the number plate was now in the rear bumper, and the previously divisible "cat's eye" taillights gave way to a row of small, round taillights (twin bulbs).

The changes in the interior, on the other hand, were only marginal, such as the fact that the seat was now upholstered in a fabric with a striped pattern and vinyl panels. The range of engines was also transferred almost unchanged.

A total of 22,246 Chevy El Caminos were produced for 1959, exceeding sales of the Ford Ranchero. However, this changed again in 1960 when the number fell back to 14,163 units. The reason for this was both the model change and the fact that Ford was offering its Ranchero (which was now based on the Falcon Compact) at a lower price at the time.

General Motors then ordered Chevrolet to stop production. Four years later, however, the El Camino was given a new chance with a second edition.

 

Chevrolet El Camino - 2nd Generation (1964-1967)

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The 1964-1967 El Camino represented the second generation of Chevy's coupe pickup truck (coupe utility vehicle). When Chevrolet dropped the El Camino in 1960 due to poor sales, no one could have guessed that the model was actually just taking a break. So people in the USA were amazed when the manufacturer finally presented the second edition of the Chevrolet El Camino to the public in 1964.

With the 1964 El Camino, Chevrolet also presents an old/new Ranchero competitor, which means that the sedan battle went into the second round. Ford was able to win the first lap with its Ranchero coupé pickup.

The Ford Ranchero, which has been based on the Falcon since 1960, consistently achieved around 20,000 sales per model year until 1963. However, with the introduction of the second generation of Chevy's new passenger car pickup, Ford immediately went on the defensive.

The second generation of Chevy El Camino had a less original body and was outwardly designed as more compact and sober - compared to before. The main reason for this was that the new model should now be viewed more as a utility (commercial vehicle) and less as a passenger car (sedan).

This is why Chevrolet initially dispensed with the installation of particularly powerful engines. But this calculation was made without the customer, whereupon this was revised again two years later and the El Camino was also given the really large engines. But first back to the beginning.

 

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The basis for this time was the Chevrolet Chevelle mid-range car, which was also offered as a two-door station wagon version, among other things. So it had all the requirements for the new Chevrolet El Camino, which is why the entire body up to the B-pillar and the long rear side parts were completely taken over. However, the sloping B-pillar itself was strongly reminiscent of the Chevy Nomad from 1955 to 1957.

Due to the fact that the second series of the El Camino ran off the same assembly line as the Chevelle, it could also use a large range of products (such as exterior colors, engines, etc.). All models at the time carried the "Chevelle" nameplates on the front fenders.

Like the first generation, the new '64 model also adopted the basic design of the respective base model. The three comfortable seats in the cabin remained standard. The wheelbase shrank by around 10 cm (to 2,921 mm).

The dimensions of the loading area, on the other hand, grew slightly, at least in terms of depth and length. With the tailgate folded down (served as an extended loading area), the maximum length was 2.58 meters (previously 2.31 m).

From now on, the standard equipment of the new El Camino also included the previously optionally available level control (air suspension), which prevented the rear from sagging under heavy loads. The El Camino II also featured a full perimeter frame, full coil suspension, and a four-link rear axle that was impressive at the time.

 

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As an option, the vehicle could be equipped with sintered metal brake pads, which brought the Chevy coupé pickup to a standstill more quickly. In addition, driver and front passenger seat belts were now part of the standard equipment according to the time.

Customers could choose their interior from the colors: aqua, beige or red. While the base models made do with all-vinyl trim and rubber mats for the interior flooring, the custom version featured a combination of cloth and vinyl, upgraded door panels, a two-tone steering wheel, and carpeted floors.

 

The second-generation Chevrolet El Camino (depending on equipment level: Malibu or Custom) could of course optionally be expanded many times over - such as with:

  • Bucket seats (two individual seats with center console)
  • Supersport hubcaps
  • Cover for the spare wheel (behind the seat)
  • electric windows
  • air conditioning
  • tachometer
  • wooden steering wheel
  • various custom feature accessories such as headlights, exterior mirrors, and tool box

 

Engines

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At market launch, the range of engines included two in-line six-cylinder engines with displacements of 3.2 and 3.8 liters and two V8 versions with displacements of 4.6 liters.

(194 cubic inches) 3.2 liter 6-cylinder engine: 120 hp

(230 cubic inches) 3.8 liter 6-cylinder engine: 155 hp (live cam)

(283 cubic inches) 4.6-liter Small-block V8 engine: two-barrel carburetor 195 hp / four-barrel carburettor and dual exhaust 220 hp

Over the course of the 1964 model year, two powerplants were added to the El Camino's options list:

(327 cubic inches) 5.4-liter small-block V8 engine: 250 hp / 300 hp (the latter with a higher compression ratio of 10.5:1 and larger four-barrel carburetor and dual exhaust system).

A three-speed manual gearbox with overdrive served as standard. A GM-based Muncie wide-ratio four-speed manual transmission was optional on the V-8 versions. A 2-speed Powerglide automatic finally rounded off the range of transmissions.

Often referred to as the "gentleman's pickup", the 1964 El Camino was very well received by customers, and this was clearly reflected in the sales figures. Chevy was able to sell 32,548 vehicles in the first year (1964). This not only exceeded its own predecessor, but also that of its competitor Ranchero, which only sold 17,316 units this year (1,200 vehicles fewer than last year).

 

1965 Facelift

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The '65 El Camino received a new look in which it received the same facelift as the '65 Chevelle. A new radiator grille, bonnet, and bumper now provided a slightly V-shaped front view, which made it grow by around six centimeters in length. Chevrolet now also removed the Chevelle nameplates from the sides of the pickup, which began to differentiate them somewhat from the passenger car models.

A new taillight design also adorned the rear and the reversing lights moved to the rear bumper, where they provided better illumination when reversing. In addition, buyers could choose from a total of 12 exterior colors, 10 of which were new.

The option list was further expanded to include: AM-FM radio, a "Low D-Note" horn option, compass, and cruise control. Other changes and improvements included interior trim, a new two-key locking/ignition system, and soundproofing.

Something had also happened under the hood of the 1965 models. A more powerful L79 version of the 5.4-liter V8 engine with 350 hp was added to the engine range. The other engines - with the exception of the 4.6-liter engine (220 hp version) - were carried over from the previous year.

The 5.4-liter, 250 hp small-block V8 engine received new cylinder heads and a single exhaust system with a larger diameter (optionally with twin exhaust systems). The 3.8-liter engine, on the other hand, lost its feathers. This made only 140 hp since the sharp camshaft was withdrawn from it.

In order to increase the driving comfort of the coupe pickup, the suspension was also retuned, which now provided a softer and quieter ride. In addition, new low-profile tires brought the occupants closer to the road. The production figures amounted to 34,724 vehicles in total.

 

1966 Facelift

 

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In 1966, Chevrolet again gave its Chevelle - and thus its El Camino - a new exterior look. All body parts below the waistline (with the exception of the tailgate) were redesigned. With Chevy retiring the 3-door station wagon Chevelle version that year, the '66 sedan pickup now featured a unique rear (or rear quarter).

Only the new vertical taillights (this time again with integrated taillights) continued to be shared with the Chevelle models. It was also the first El Camino to bear its name on the sheet metal - on an emblem in the center of the new grille. The vehicle was now offered in 15 Magic Mirror acrylic colors, six of which were new.

In addition to a new instrument panel (with a horizontal speedometer and an optional tachometer), headrests, and shoulder belts (three-point belts), there were also new interior colors. For example, the color aqua was replaced by blue and a black interior was now available in the Custom trim level with bucket seats.

Performance-oriented customers could also be happy because they had more powerful engine options to choose from. In addition to a 6.5-liter big-block V8 engine (396 cubic inches) with 325 and 360 hp, a 375 hp version of the big block called the L78 was added in mid-1965.

This fun cost an extra $425 and was claimed a total of 3,099 times. A road test at that time showed (unfortunately only with the 325 hp version) a quarter-mile time of just under 16 seconds. However, the 375 hp variant should be around a second faster.

Next on the order card was a single 5.4-liter small-block V8 engine, this time producing 275 hp, and the reintroduced 4.6-liter small-block V8 powerplant producing 220 hp. The two sixes and also the standard V-8 was transferred unchanged.

The fully synchronized Warner "Floorshift" three-speed manual transmission, which was initially only reserved for the 6.5-liter engines, was also offered as an option for other El Camino engines from mid-1966. A four-speed gearbox was only available in the V8 versions, with the gearbox being more closely spaced in the 360 ​​and 375-hp versions.

Despite the renewed price increase - now at least $2,318 and $ 2,504 for the popular Chevrolet El Camino Custom V8 - model year production now stood at 35,119 units. This was the second year in a row that demand has increased.

 

1967 Facelift

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Chevy's coupé pickup received another facelift in 1967. A new radiator grille, front bumper, and newly styled fenders provided a new front look. From now on, a chromed El Camino lettering adorned the front edge of the hood.

The rear was equipped with new, improved "Cheese Wedge" taillights, which made the vehicle visible from the side even at night. The reversing lights sank back into the rear bumper. Also new to the 1967 Custom model was the wood-look trim panel attached to the tailgate.

In contrast to the interior, which remained almost unchanged, a lot happened in terms of the powertrain in the '67 El Camino. For example, the 3.8-liter six-cylinder became the new base engine. The next higher option was a 4.1-liter engine (250 cubic inches) also with six cylinders and 155 hp.

For the V8 models, the 4.6-liter with 195 hp remained standard, while the 220 hp version was finally phased out this time. The 5.4-liter engine with 275 hp was also adopted, but now a new high-performance variant with 325 hp has been added.

The mighty 6.5-liter big-block V8 (SS396 engine / basic engine of the Chevelle SS) with 325 hp also came into the model year 1967, but here the blocking peak was only a 350 hp variant (previously 360 and 375 hp ).

The more powerful engine options included various performance chassis components.

Although there was no El Camino Super Sport (SS for short) at the time, many owners provided their '67 with Chevelle SS parts and lettering.

The 3-speed automatic transmission Turbo Hydramatic 400 (TH400), which was an option for the 6.5-liter models, was also used in the 1967 El Camino pickup. However, the standard three-speed manual transmission and the options (depending on the model), four-speed transmission, and a 2-speed Powerglide automatic remained unchanged. But the customer also had a choice of different gear ratios.

The second-generation Chevrolet El Camino was the last model to be built on an A-body chassis and was eventually succeeded by the third generation in 1968. However, Chevrolet (in the second round) clearly won the fierce competition in the field of car-based pickups.

Ford produced 17,243 units with its Ranchero in 1967, just under half the production of the El Camino II, which came to 34,830. Overall, the second edition of the Chevrolet El Camino (from 1964 to 1967) produced 137,221 vehicles.

 

Chevrolet El Camino - 3rd Generation (1968-1972)

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In 1968, Chevrolet introduced the third edition of the El Camino to the US market. As before, this generation was still based on the then freshly renewed Chevy Chevelle, which made the sedan pickup slightly larger in its external dimensions.

As for the base model, a new High-Performance Super Sport SS396 version was released this year for the Chevrolet El Camino, functioning here as a separate model. The manufacturer thus made the leap from commercial vehicle to sporty driving style, which clearly reflected the current trend of muscle cars.

The new El Camino coupe pickup (3rd generation) became an instant hit upon its launch. While sales of the previous generation remained constant at around 35,000 units, Chevy managed to sell a total of 41,791 vehicles in 1968. This ushered in an era of the highest El Camino sales of all time. Finally, in 1972, with more than 57,000 units, this record could be increased again.

Since the third generation continued to follow in the footsteps of the Chevelle, the small truck grew by a total of 10 inches. The vehicle now has an overall length of 5,283 mm – with a wheelbase of 2,946 mm.

Furthermore, the new bodywork was also carried over here (at least up to the A-pillar) and the respective interior and exterior sports equipment of the Chevelle Malibu were also adopted. Ultimately, it can be said that the relationship between the two-vehicle generations was so close that most parts were largely interchangeable.

 

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Despite its larger dimensions, the Chevrolet El Camino III was still lighter than its predecessor (curb weight: 3205 lbs) thanks to its lighter construction and front-end layout coupled with dual headlights. The '68 model featured side marker lights, which were now required by law. Next to it was the displacement emblem.

Inside the new El Camino, you could choose between fabric and vinyl or full vinyl seats. In addition to carpets, other options included vinyl Strato bucket seats and a center console. The vehicle could also be ordered with front disc brakes and positraction (locking differential).

Other equipment options also included: air conditioning, AM/FM radio, clock, cruise control, dual exhausts, headrests, power brakes (brake booster), power steering, power windows, cruise control, height-adjustable steering wheel, and vinyl roof.

 

Engines

The Chevrolet El Camino was available with the following engines:

  • 230-cubic-inch (3.8-liter six-cylinder) with 140 hp
  • 250-cubic-inch (4.1-liter six-cylinder) with 155 hp
  • 307 cubic inch (5.0 liter V8) with 200 hp (L14)
  • 327-cubic-inch (5.4-liter eight-cylinder) with 250 hp (L73) / 275 hp (L30)
  • 396 cubic inch (6.5 liter eight-cylinder) with 325 hp / 350 hp (L34) and 375 hp (L78)

 

A three-speed manual transmission was standard on all engines here. For a surcharge, the popular coupé pickup was also available with a four-speed or automatic transmission.

 

Chevrolet El Camino SS

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Arguably the most famous El Camino model was the legendary SS, which was introduced as a standalone model in 1968. Upgrading to this new High-Performance Super Sport SS396 version cost a hefty $444 back then. Equipped with the powerful 396 cubic inch turbo jet big block (L78) engine, the El Camino SS put 325, 350, or 375 hp on the road, depending on your preference.

In addition to the SS emblem (in the middle of the radiator grille), a bulging bonnet (scoop), larger wide oval tires, and a darkened lower body, it was clearly recognizable as an SS version. Production of the 1968 El Camino SS was limited to 5,190 units.

 

1969 Facelift

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For the first time since its introduction (1959), the sedan pickup kept its sheet metal dress from the previous year. Changes that were only externally minor included a new grille, new front bumper, higher positioned side marker lights, and the reversing lights, which moved to the tailgate. Inside, only the new round instrument shells are worth mentioning.

Furthermore, the '69 Chevy El Camino used the 350-cubic-inch (5.7-liter V8) engine for the first time and the SS396 was no longer marketed as a separate model. A V8 unit with either 265, 325, 350, or 375 hp slumbered under the double-curved bonnet of the SS version.

Total production of the 1969 El Camino was 48,385 units.

 

1970 Facelift

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The 1970 model, on the other hand, received a major facelift, which, in addition to a revised body, mostly took place under the bonnet. The interior was also redesigned.

The most important visual changes included a more square front end, and twin headlights with plastic surround placed separately (outside the grille). It also had round flashing lights in the bumper, which moved a little further outwards, and large rectangular reversing lights in the tailgate.

Chevrolet swapped out the 396 for a 402ci (6.6-liter V8) engine while retaining horsepower and the SS396 (emblem 396) model designation. Also released (mid-year) was a new top-of-the-line engine, the massive 454 big block (7.4 liter V8), available in LS5 and LS6 versions, producing 360 and 450 hp respectively.

This LS6 454 CID engine with its 450 hp and 678 Newton meters of torque was Chevy's largest and most powerful engine at the time and was only installed in a few selected El Caminos. Equipped with this power, the sedan pickup managed a 1/4 mile time of 13.44 seconds - at a speed of 108.17 mph.

 

1971 Facelift

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In 1971, a revised El Camino was brought out again, which mainly brought with it a new front design. Here, the former twin headlights made room for a simple, round unit, while combined side marker and direction indicators migrated to the respective ends. The vehicle was also given a new radiator grille, which was now slightly tapered in a V-shape.

But it was also the year that heralded the end of the muscle car era. New government mandates calling for lower octane unleaded fuel as well as stricter emissions standards forced the manufacturer to act. Thus, in 1971, the performance values ​​that ran right through the Chevrolet and GM range fell. And the LS6 454 also disappeared completely from the El Camino shelf.

The respective power outputs of the engines ranged from 145 hp (six-cylinder) to 365 hp for the RPO LS5 454 in 1971. For the first time this year, you could also order an SS with the 350-cubic-inch motor.

But the El Camino was also given a cousin by the name of “ GMC Sprint ” during this period. This vehicle came out with similar lines and the same powertrain. Total production of the 1971 El Camino was 47,606 units.

 

1972 Facelift

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The '72 El Camino (final model year of the third generation) featured very minor changes. The most obvious changes included, for example, the slightly larger combined side marker and turn signal unit as well as a slightly revised front grille. The year 1972 is often seen as the end of the muscle car era, which was sealed not least by the following year - with the oil crisis.

This year, the US manufacturers also had to quantify the performance measurements on their vehicles with net figures for the first time. Previously, all horsepower figures were purely gross values ​​that were measured on the engine test bench without the operation of the fan, water pump, alternator, air filter, and silencer.

With this impractical method, the engine performance was generally exaggerated and at the same time was up to 25% above the European performance values. This circumstance caused the performance values ​​of the '72 El-Camino to sink further (at least on paper), although the actual performance was not really different from the previous model.

For example, the net output of the top engine (454 ci V8) for the then-new sedan pickup fell to just 270 hp. Apart from the data, the range of engines from the previous model was largely retained. What was new this year, however, was the Super Sport option, which Chevy now made into a trim package — available for all V8 El Caminos, even the paltry 307ci V8.

In total, the third edition of the Chevrolet El Camino sedan pickup (from 1968 to 1972) produced 242,636 vehicles.

 

Chevrolet El Camino - 4th Generation (1973-1977)

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The fourth edition of the Chevrolet El Camino was launched in the US in 1973 and was still based on the Chevelle models running at the same time . Thanks to new and lighter construction, Chevy's new coupe pickup weighed significantly less than its predecessors.At the same time, it was the largest model in the El Camino series to date and also had more options and equipment packages than ever before.

Two newly introduced trim packages, Conquista and Estate provided a more striking look for the new models. While the Conquista attracted attention with its two-tone paintwork, the Estate shone with a wood finish on the lower side panels.

The '73 Chevy El Camino came out with all-new body. The base model, as well as the SS option, shared interior and exterior trim with the Chevelle Malibu models. However, unlike the Chevelle series, the new El Camino was lucky enough to retain its Super Sport version for the entire generation (1973 was the last year of the Chevelle SS).

Furthermore, the new fourth-series limousine pickup was “particularly well” received by customers. With 64,987 units sold in 1973 , the model sold like never before (15 percent more than 1972 - which was previously considered the best selling year). In fact, this year's sales figure could never be topped again.

At market launch, the new models featured a new design, energy-absorbing hydraulic front bumper systems, a 1-inch wider wheel track and a more positive camber on the left wheel (which resulted in improved steering feel). The suspension (coil springs) was also improved and disc brakes were now installed as standard at the front.

In addition, the new body construction brought with it reinforced door impact beams as well as unusually thin windshield pillars. The latter provided an exceptionally better view for the driver. Its payload was a respectable 0.5 tons.

Furthermore, the new El Camino was provided with an acoustical double-panel roof (additional roof panel for improved sound insulation and noise absorption),  frameless door glasses, flush exterior door handles, seats with foam padding, through-flow ventilation, and a larger fuel tank (22 gal).

New optional equipment  were the swivel bucket seats (with center console), turbine & urethane wheels and advanced instrument clusters.

 

Engines

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Under the hood of the 3rd gen El Camino was the 307 2-barrel V8 with 115 hp (86 kW) as the base engine. The coupé pickup was also available with a 350 2-barrel V8 with 145 hp (108 kW), 175 hp (130 kW) 350 4-barrel V8 or 454 4-barrel V8 with 245 hp (183 kW). Hardened engine valve seats made it possible to fill up with regular unleaded gas and hydraulic camshafts ensured a high level of reliability.

A three-speed manual was used as the standard transmission. On request, the vehicle was also equipped with a 4-speed manual transmission or a Turbo Hydra-Matic 3-speed automatic transmission. In addition, the cross-flow cooler and coolant tank provided adequate protection against overheating.

In addition, the El Camino SS was available with a choice of Big Block 350 or 454 V8 with 4-speed or Turbo Hydra-Matic transmission.

 

1974 Facelift

The following year, Chevrolet gave its sedan pickup a new (longer) front grille that was visually reminiscent of certain Mercedes Benz models. In addition, the El Camino was now available in a luxurious Classic version. This trumped with wood grains, carpets, optional Strato bucket seats and other high-quality equipment details.

The top-of-the-line engine was optionally accompanied by the Turbo Hydra-Matic 400 automatic or the 4-speed manual transmission. In 1974 the manufacturer was able to sell 51,223 vehicles.

 

1975 Facelift

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In 1975, the fourth El Camino generation again received a modified grille. Furthermore, the chassis was revised, which brought the car a smoother and quieter handling. Radial tires were now standard, as were sports mirrors (on both sides). Intermittent wipers and cruise control were added as new convenience features.

The 1975 model followed GM's decree that all new cars should use catalytic converters and high-energy ignition. With these changes, required by law, emissions and performance decreased, while fuel consumption remained almost unchanged.

The optional four-speed gearbox was no longer offered. Instead, customers could now order the car with an Econominder instrument package. This informed the driver (via a vacuum meter) when he had reached optimal fuel consumption. In 1975 the manufacturer was able to sell 33,620 vehicles.

 

1976 Facelift

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In 1976, Chevy introduced its El Camino Classic models with new rectangular dual-stack headlights, while the standard models continued to make do with the round single-stack headlights.

Also new was a new engine option, a 305 cubic inch V8 with 103 kW/140 hp. On the other hand, the 454 cui V8 big block was completely taken off the market, which ultimately heralded the end of the performance era.

All engines came exclusively with the Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission. Only the 250 cui L6 still had the 3-speed manual transmission, which could also be upgraded if desired. In 1976 the manufacturer was able to sell 44,890 vehicles.

 

1977 Facelift

For the last model year of the fourth El Camino edition, hardly any changes were made, with the exception of the engine range. By eliminating some engines - including the 400 cui V8 - the engine options were kept quite manageable in 1977.

Since being classified as a truck, the sedan pickup has been subject to various rules and regulations, which have forced it to reduce its performance considerably. However, the fourth generation was hit particularly hard by these cuts. After the 1975 model year, the big block engine was completely withdrawn from it, which was already only a whisper of what it once did.

Nevertheless, the El Camino remained popular and said goodbye to the fourth edition with a total of 249,041 vehicles sold which was a record at the time.

 

Chevrolet El Camino - 5th Generation (1978-1987)

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Chevrolet launched the fifth and last series of the El Camino in 1978, which was built until 1987.

The Chevrolet El Camino became smaller, sleeker and more angular, but at the same time received a more modern, updated design that had almost nothing to do with the classic status of the earlier El Camino from Chevelle. Still, the downsized sedan pickup was well received by customers, outselling its direct competitor Ford Ranchero - which was discontinued in 1979.

The Chevy coupé pickup series has always been based on the respective passenger car series. The El Camino has been following in the footsteps of the Chevelle since 1964 , but the series was discontinued in 1977. The Chevelle successor Malibu and that of the Monte Carlo now served as the new platform.

However, the fifth edition of the El Camino was given its own chassis for the first time, which it did not have to share with any other Chevrolet model. Otherwise, the base El Camino and El Camino SS options returned in 1978, but were supplemented by new editions such as the Conquista and Black Knight.

 

Engines 

The basic engine was also new, with which a V6 unit (a 90° V6 from Buick or Chevrolet) was used for the first time in the El Camino. This drew 95 hp from a displacement of 3.3 l (200 cui). In California, on the other hand, a 3.8-liter (231 cui) V6 with 105 hp served as the base engine to meet local emissions standards.

Overall, however, the range of engines from the fifth El Camino generation can be described as rather boring - the fat years of the big blocks were long over.

Available engines were the 200 cui (3.3 liter) V6 with 95 hp and 160 Nm torque.

231 cui (3.8 liter) V6 with 105 hp and 185 Nm torque (California only), 305 cui (5 liter) V8 with 145 hp and 245 Nm torque (135 hp and 240 Nm torque for California), and 350 cui (5.7 liter) V8 with 170 hp and 270 Nm torque (160 hp and 260 Nm torque for California).

Chevy's "gentleman pickup" came standard with a three-speed synchromesh manual transmission. A four-speed manual transmission and an automatic transmission were also available as options.

 

The El Camino Black Knight / Royal Knight / Conquista

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Clearly the Trans Am "Bandit" from the late 70's was one of the hottest cars on the US streets. So it's not very surprising that Chevrolet jumped on this "black / gold" bandwagon and launched a special model of the SS series in 1978 called the Chevrolet El Camino Black Knight.

It was a special trim package that included black paintwork, brown interior, and Black Knight Decals (in gold and brown tones). Like a hood graphic with two huge winged dragons in side profile, facing a knight head-on. The front fenders and tailgate were decorated with an old English writing " Black Knight " and side stripes.

This special edition was so popular that some dealers cloned other super sport models to emulate the Black Knight. However, production of the El Camino Black Knight was halted in June following a lawsuit, forcing the package to be renamed the Royal Knight for 1979.

According to various sources, only about 1,200 pieces were made. No wonder an original Black Knight is a highly sought-after collector's item today. The El Camino Royal Knight (from 1979) was offered with different finishes.

It was also manufactured in the regular El Camino line through 1980. After that it was only available as a special order until it was finally discontinued at the end of 1983. Already in the first year (1979) Chevrolet produced 9,213 SS El Caminos , of which 2,815 were Royal Knights.

But the Conquista package was also very popular and helped the sedan pickup stand out from the crowd. The El Camino Conquista was particularly notable for its three-tone paint job, which gave it a clean, sleek look that made it look significantly more upscale. This option package was offered until the end of production in 1987.

 

1978 Facelift

The '78 El Camino introduced new, sharp-edged Malibu styling (with single rectangular headlights in the front) and a unique 117-inch wheelbase (1 inch longer than the previous model). Despite the longer wheelbase, the El Camino was a few inches shorter than the '77 at 201.6 inches long.

The facelift resulted in a weight saving of up to 286 lbs. It was also possible to increase the headroom and legroom in the interior. Total production for 1978 was 54,286 units and a '78 El Camino SS was offered at a factory price of $5,022.

 

1979 Facelift

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The '79 El Camino was changed only slightly. Probably the biggest modifications included a new radiator grille, which was still flanked by single rectangular headlights. Here the upright parking lights were slightly notched into the body corners.

A new engine was also added to the options list - a 267-cui (4.4-liter) V-8 with 125 hp (not for California). Both the three- and four-speed manual transmissions now had floor shifters. Total El Camino production that year was 58,008 units.

 

1980 Facelift

Even in 1980, the small car-based pickup was only slightly modified optically. So it got again a new radiator grille and headlight covers as well as slightly larger designed side marker lights.

A little more change, however, took place in the choice of engines. A new 229 cui (3.8-liter) V6 now replaced the small 200 cui base engine, and the previously largest powerplant - the 350 cui (5.7-liter) V8 was taken off the shelf entirely. In addition, the new base V6 and the optional 5.0-liter V-8 could now be fitted with a new automatic transmission that included a lock-up torque converter.

Total production of the Chevrolet El Camino that year was just 40,932 units , despite the loss of main competitor Ford Ranchero. The Super Sport version was priced at $6,128 at the time.

 

1981 Facelift

As with the previous model series, the 81 model was also provided with a new radiator grille. The interior of the Chevy pickup has also been refreshed with a new dashboard. The engine lineup was mostly carried over from the previous year, but now used GM's Computer Command Control (CCC) emissions system, which shifted performance somewhat.

 

1982 Facelift

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In 1982, the Chevy pickup coupe got a new front look, getting two headlights on each side, a wide pair of turn signals, and a hatched grille. This frontal appearance was retained until the end of production in 1987. The seats and instrument panel have also been revised.

A diesel engine was installed in the El Camino for the first time in 1982. It was a 5.7-liter, 105 hp diesel V8 that was also offered in other large Chevy vehicles. The choice of gas engines, on the other hand, remained unchanged. Only in the Californian models was the 231 cui base engine replaced by the 229 cubic inch (3.8 liter) engine. The expensive diesel option provided high mileage, but set a dismal repair record.

 

1983 Facelift

Hardly any changes were made for the '83 model. This year Chevrolet commissioned Choo-Choo Customs Inc. , of Chattanooga, Tennessee, to convert its El Camino SS series (joint venture). This included a new aerodynamic front end (similar to that of the Monte Carlo SS), which clearly differentiated the Super Sport version from the standard El Caminos.

Choo-Choo Customs Inc. took over this conversion until the end of production (1987), resulting in an estimated 2,200 such SS versions . 1983 was the year with the fewest Choo Choo El Caminos produced (about 22 units or fewer). Total El Camino production in 1983 was 24,010 units and the base price for an SS was now $ 8,445.

 

1984 Facelift

1984 was a fairly uneventful year for the small but luxurious Chevy sedan pickup. Notably, Chevrolet shelved its mid-size Malibu, which had shared many interior and exterior components with the El Camino since 1964. Total production was 22,997 units , while the SS version went up to $8,781.

 

1985 Facelift

That year, GM shifted its El Camino production to Mexico , where it continued until 1987. The engine range was reduced to just two powerplants: a new base engine (262 cui) 4.3-liter V6 with fuel injection and the (305 cui) 5-liter V8 unit with a four-barrel carburetor this time with 165 hp. The 3.8-liter V6 as well as the diesel option were completely dropped from the range.

 

1986 Facelift

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The '86 Chevy sedan pickup received a new instrument panel and revised instrument cluster graphics. The vehicle also offered around 35.5 cubic feet (1.0 m³) of cargo capacity and a payload of just over half a ton.

Also the El Camino SS (by Choo-Choo Custom) was still delivered with the aerodynamic front end of the Monte Carlo SS. The SS package also included two sports mirrors, various decals (SS stripes and Super Sport inscriptions), rally wheels, an optional hood scoop, side exhaust pipes (neither functional) and pickup bed rails (grid border for the loading area). Customers were also able to choose from five characteristic two-tone exterior color combinations.

 

1987 Facelift

In 1987, the El Camino still combined the utility of a pickup truck with the beauty of a sports coupe. Unfortunately, this wasn't enough in the end: Demand fell sharply and the larger pickup that had been introduced in 1982 - the Chevrolet S-10 - was now selling significantly better. Thus, at the end of 1987, the manufacture of the El Camino was completely discontinued.

A few hundred (420 units) of the unsold vehicles from that year were eventually sold as " 1988 Model ". The top engine this year was still the 5.0-liter V-8 (305 cid) with an output of 150 hp at 4000 rpm and 325 Nm of torque.

 

The Legacy of the El Camino

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Even today - more than 30 years after the last Chevy sedan pickup rolled off the assembly line - many fans are still hoping for a comeback. For the legendary El Camino to step back into the limelight and wow the masses with new and better models - as has happened before in its history. In any case, she deserved it because she was always something very special.

 

In fact, some attempts (with some new concepts) in this direction have already been started:

  • In 1992, GM presented an El Camino concept that was essentially a pickup truck variant of the Chevrolet Lumina Z34. However, this did not go down very well with the public, mainly because of its front-wheel drive.
  • Attempted again in 1995, this time with a concept based on the Caprice station wagon with the grille of a 1994-96 Impala SS. Production failed when GM discontinued the B-platform vehicle line a year later.
  • In 2008, the Pontiac G8 ST was presented at the New York International Auto Show . This was based on the Australian Holden Commodore Ute and was to be launched as a SportTruck (coupé pickup) in 2010. Due to budget cuts and restructuring, however, this project was canceled again.
  • In 2011, GM again considered the El Camino under the Chevrolet brand for 2015. Apparently, however, this thought was also rejected.

 

As it turns out, GM itself does not seem to have closed the El Camino chapter for itself. However, whether there will ultimately be a future comeback remains to be seen. Until then , the all-important question can perhaps be clarified: was it a car or a truck? Chevy itself would probably phrase the answer like this: It's whatever you want.

 

Protecting Your Chevrolet El Camino

For your protection needs, you should trust no other than Coverking since they are the official partner of most automotive manufacturers. Check out the Coverking website and you’ll find car covers, seat covers, dash covers, etc. made custom for each and every model Hummer ever built!

 

Resources

 

Tankut Basar

Tankut Basar is an ARA (American Rally Assoc.) Racing Driver and an FIA Bronze Category License Holder. His passion for driving began with karting like most racers. He started racing internationally at the age of 22. Tankut loves everything car-related and will keep enjoying the drive until the end. 

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