SUMMARY
Fully documented 4-owner car / 17-year, body-off restoration completed in 2015In today's increasingly sterile auto industry, talk of "utility" usually centers on 'cute' and 'ergonomic' crossovers that are essentially glorified minivans. Fortunately, as hardened car guys, we're smart enough to know a better definition of the word. To us, "utility" means having the room to carry a wide variety of essentials while having the ability to haul a whole lot of... umm... tail. That's why, roughly 40 years after their introduction, classics like this fully documented, numbers-matching El Camino still mix serious fun with serious desirability. So, if you're looking to ascertain a correct, muscle-bound Chevy that's ready to pose, play and tote some big trophies, check out this sublime Super Sport!
BODYWORK/TRIM
Originally sold at Fred Gledhill Chevrolet in Wilmington, California, this unbeholden ute is a 4-owner gem that, according to its current steward, was a multi-year labor of love. Acquired in 1998, the low-mileage weekender benefitted from a body-off restoration that added an immediate transmission rebuild, a 2004 repaint and a 2006 engine rebuild to its 2015 completion date. Naturally, that professionally massaged drivetrain was complemented with an array of correct componentry. As you can see from our high-resolution photos, that correct 2-stage was accented with traditional Super Sport hood stripes. And today, the car presents as a no apologies classic that's both timeless and cool.
Aesthetically, the El Camino never strayed far from the coupe or sedan it was founded on. At the front of this retro crossover, a familiar Chevelle grille hangs a fresh and prominent "SS" emblem between stainless-seated T3s, clean marker lamps and a thick chrome bumper. Above that bumper, an NOS Super Sport hood flows to like-new glass, which is flanked by correct stainless frames and correct stainless drip rails. Beneath those rails, bold fender badging combines with correct wheel trim, traditional door handles and flashy mirrors to add visual detail to the car's smooth profile. And at the back of that profile, a stainless-trimmed bed leads the eye to a black-trimmed tailgate, which hangs correct badging and clean reverse lamps between vivid taillights and a second chrome bumper.
ENGINE
Although Chevrolet's ferocious LS6 Turbo Jet V8 was conservatively rated at 450 horsepower, it actually punched the dyno somewhere north of 500. Toss this classic's hood and you'll find an original, 454 cubic inch big block that hangs a correct 3963512 casting number between a correct "CRR" assembly stamp and matching partial VIN. At the top of that block, a rare dual-snorkel air cleaner forces oxygen in to an original Holley carburetor and correct Winters intake. At the back of that intake, an original points distributor sequences fire through high quality Packard TV R Suppression cables. Below those cables, correct exhaust manifolds are wired to old school emissions hardware. And at the front of that hardware, GM-branded hoses channel water past a correct fan and rebuilt alternator with the help of a beefy radiator and familiar tower clamps. During the extensive restoration, the big mill was professionally overhauled and decked in glossy Chevy Orange paint. And, from its mirrored valve covers and Delco-topped battery all the way to its fresh brake booster and stainless fluid lines, the monster motor looks right at home in the car's clean, Satin Black engine bay.
DRIVETRAIN/SUSPENSION
Naturally, this A-Body's road-ready chassis has been restored to the same high standards as its slick profile and clean engine compartment. A nice coat of Satin Black paint provides a great foundation for correct inspection marks and factory-accurate details. Behind the stout big block, an original Turbo-Hydramatic 400 3-speed hangs a correct "70 CY" assembly tag opposite a matching partial VIN. That tough transmission twists power to a correct "CRW" stamped 12-bolt, which spins a posi-traction differential around meaty, 4.10 gears. Holding that killer drivetrain off the ground is a correct F40 Heavy Duty Suspension, which is equipped with stiff springs, a heavy-duty sway bar and correct manual steering. The car's rebuilt power front disc and rear drum brakes are present, accounted for and function exceptionally well. The aforementioned exhaust manifolds dump spent gases in to authentic Gardner pipes. Power meets the pavement via stylish Super Sport wheels and G70-14 Goodyear Polyglas tires. And, in keeping with its raucous 454, much attention has been paid to making sure everything under this Camino is virtually spotless.
INTERIOR
Decked in correct Black vinyl, this pickup's fully restored interior features a host of fresh components. Its firm bench seat displays correct weave patterns that were designed to keep passengers' backs cool. In front of those seats, a correct Super Sport dash hangs deluxe telemetry and a correct electric clock above Delco pushbutton audio. At the sides of that dash, pliable, "SS" branded door panels bridge the gap between fresh carpet and a factory-spec headliner. And in front of the driver, a thin Super Sport steering wheel keeps everybody pointed in the right direction.
HISTORICAL INFORMATION
In addition to requisite body tags, this Chevy's sale includes an original build sheet and replacement Protect-O-Plate. Here's a detailed look at the car's VIN, Cowl Tag and pertinent standard and optional equipment:
VIN: 136800LXXXXXX
- 1: Chevrolet Motor DivisionCOWL TAG:
70: 1970 model yearBUILD SHEET:
MODEL 13680: Chevrolet Malibu 2-door sedan pickup
ENGINE RR: 454 cubic inch LS6 V8 that's backed by a Turbo-Hydramatic 400 3-speed
TRANSMISSION CY: High performance TH400 3-speed that's equipped with high shift points
AXLE RW: Heavy-duty, LS6-specific 12-bolt rear axle that's fitted with 4.10 gears
TRIM 755: Black, coated fabric interior
COLOR 17: Shadow Gray exterior paint
OUR SALE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING DOCUMENTATION AND ACCESSORIES
An original build sheetOverall, this fully documented, numbers-matching ute is the total package. With an original, king-of-the-mountain LS6, an original Turbo-Hydramatic 3-speed and all-American bluster that enjoys a dedicated following, it's an exclusive peak in an exclusive niche. Looking for a versatile classic that's one part fun and two parts pedigree? Don't miss the chance to experience this killer El Camino Super Sport!