Chevrolet’s 1959 Impala was a resounding success, but another new model, the El Camino, struggled to gain traction. Despite its unique design, which combined the elements of a coupe and a pickup truck, the El Camino failed to capture the hearts of consumers.
The El Camino’s initial lack of popularity can be attributed to several factors, including its relatively high price point, its limited cargo capacity compared to traditional pickups, and its unconventional appearance.
Despite its initial struggles, the El Camino concept proved to be appealing enough to warrant a second chance. Chevrolet revived the model in 1964, and this time, the El Camino enjoyed greater success. The 1964 El Camino featured a more refined design and a wider range of engine options, making it more appealing to a broader audience.
The El Camino’s popularity continued to grow throughout the 1960s and 1970s, as it became a popular choice for those seeking a versatile vehicle that could handle both everyday driving and occasional hauling tasks.
The Chevrolet El Camino, a unique blend of car and truck, offered a versatility that appealed to many. While its base engine was a 235-cubic-inch inline-six, those seeking more power could opt for the fuel-injected 283 V8. However, at a hefty $484, this option was a significant investment for a vehicle priced around $2,500.
For a fraction of the cost, drivers could instead choose the 348-cubic-inch big-block, which delivered comparable power. Even the top-of-the-line 315-hp triple-carbureted 348 was still more affordable than the 283.
Transmission options for the El Camino included a three-speed manual, two- and three-speed automatics (Powerglide and Turboglide), a close-ratio four-speed manual, and a three-speed manual with overdrive. Combined with a range of rear axle ratios (3.36, 3.55, 4.11, and dealer-installed 3.07 and 4.33), the El Camino could be tailored to suit various driving needs, from leisurely cruising to high-performance driving.
Despite its later resurgence, the El Camino had a rocky start in life. As a result, finding an early first-year example can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Unfortunately, some owners of these rare vehicles may set unrealistic asking prices, as evidenced by a 1959 El Camino listed on eBay for $8,000.
While the 1959 El Camino listed on eBay may be overpriced, it is a testament to the enduring appeal of this unique vehicle. A Chevy El Camino, once a proud symbol of American automotive ingenuity, now languishes in a state of disrepair. The car, with its 67,526 miles and a worn-out three-speed manual transmission, has been awaiting restoration since the early 1980s.
Its past two decades have been spent in relative seclusion, shielded from the elements. The current owner, from Billings, Missouri, purchased the El Camino in its current state, professing intentions to bring it back to life. However, these plans never materialized. The floor pans, though showing signs of rust, are reportedly not as severely damaged as many others.
Previous attempts to patch the holes with metal sheets are evident, as are dents in the rear quarter panels. Despite these imperfections, the body remains structurally sound, and the original glass, including a cracked windshield, is still in place.
