In 1978, it became part of the Malibu lineup.The El Camino was most popular from 1968 to 1980, when annual sales surpassed 40,000 or even 50,000 units (save for 1975).
So while it became a hot seller during the golden muscle car era, when it got the Chevelle’s most powerful V8 engines, the El Camino remained the coupe utility of choice for many Americans for a good part of the Malaise Era.
The first iteration of pickup based on the midsize Chevelle, it arrived in 1964. Essentially a two-door Chevelle wagon with a bed behind the front seats, the second-gen El Camino was offered with a selection of inline-six and V8 engines.
Sure, this version looks rather mundane compared to the 1968 model that followed, but it was no slouch in the perform ance department.
What’s more, the 396-cubic-inch (6.5-liter) big block that arrived in 1966 delivered 325 to 375 horsepower. The latter version turned the El Camino into a muscle car with a bed.
So why doesn’t the second-gen El Camino get as much love as its predecessor and immediate successor? Hard to say. But a solid option if you’re looking for a sprightly pickup that doesn’t break the bank. And the 1966 version you see here is proof that these American utes look downright fantastic when restored.
As shiny and clean as it was when it left the Leeds Assembly plant in Kansas City in 1966, this Chevy would easily find room in any automobile-themed museum.
I know, I’m a bit disappointed too, but hey, that’s plenty of oomph for an El Camino. And here’s the good news: the big block comes with a four-speed manual transmission for three-pedal and row-your-own fun.
Fortunately enough, not only he found the car he was looking for but he’s also taking much better care of it. Check it out in the video below.
