1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 396

Description

Ford was the first to revive the once-common ‘roadster utility’ body style of the 1920s and 1930s with the eminently popular Ford Ranchero released in 1957. Taking note, General Motors followed suit two years later with the Chevrolet El Camino – a period brochure billing it as “a commercial vehicle that’s a prize combination of business ability and beauty.” The second-generation El Camino which followed in 1964 brought bigger engines and higher trim levels, but it wasn’t until the third generation (1968-1972), based on the longer-wheelbase Chevelle sedan, that solidified the pickup as a muscle-era legend. In SS trim, the 396 (402 cu-in) V8 pumped out 350-horsepower, giving the El Camino quarter-mile times in the upper 13-second range and truly catering to collectors of American performance. A lengthy options list including textured vinyl upholstery, Comfortilt steering wheel, and power steering has made well-equipped examples like this the holy grail of the iconic muscle hauler. 

Highlights

• Desirable third-generation El Camino benefitting from a major styling update in 1970 featuring a more squared stance, twin headlights placed outside the grille, and a redesigned interior

• Powered by a numbers-matching 402 cu-in ‘L34’ V8 engine mated to a correct ‘M21’ four-speed manual transmission

• As per consignor, recent service highlights include tuning the engine, rebuilding the Rochester carburetor, and replacing the distributor cap, rotor, and spark plugs in January 2023

• A new Moser 12-bolt 373 differential was fitted in May 2022 at approximately 53,000 indicated miles

• The close-ratio transmission, rear coil springs, wheel cylinders, axle bearings, and seals were reportedly replaced in November 2013

• Subject to a refurbishment under previous ownership circa 2011, which included a professional repaint in its original hue of Mulsanne Blue and reupholstery of the Bright Blue vinyl interior

• Indicating 30,527 miles at the time of listing, however, the total mileage is unknown

Features

• 14-inch rally-style wheels with SS center caps

• Cowl induction hood

• Hood pins

• Twin wide sport stripes

• Textured vinyl bench seat

• Tilt-steering column

• Hurst shifter

• Power steering

• Aftermarket Panasonic AM/FM/Cassette stereo

• Vent windows

• Power-assisted front disc brakes, rear drum brakes

Known Flaws

• Some dents in the bed

Included

• Two keys

• Car cover

• New Bosch electronic tachometer and under-dash gauges

Ownership History

The El Camino has been preserved and enjoyed by the New Jersey-based consignor since 2021, who has added 953 of the 30,527 total indicated mileage. 

Additional Notes

A Broad Arrow Group Car Specialist is working as an agent on behalf of the owner for this vehicle.

Contact: Marvin Waters Phone: 910.315.2918 email: marvin.waters@broadarrowgroup.com