A SURVIVOR IN GREAT CONDITION, #'S MATCH 350 V8 W/ 4 SPEED MUNCIE, PS, PB-FR DSC

Chevrolet El Camino 1971 Description

The good looks of a Chevelle and the utility of a pickup bed are still hard to beat, even after four decades. This handsome 1971 Elky sports its original numbers matching 350 under the hood and a 4-speed behind it, so there's not much it can't haul, and with a full-dress SS look, most guys will give it a wide berth on the street simply on principle. Practical speed, that's the El Camino.Nevada Silver is one of those colors that will never go out of style. Smooth, slick, and thoroughly up to date, this SS most certainly looks the part of a heavy-hitter on the street. A cowl-induction hood and black SS stripes certainly help with that impression, although we kind of like that they skipped the fake SS badges and kept the stock grille. Since it's mostly original, fit and finish are extremely good, better than most of your local cruise night Elkys, with doors that fit well and long quarter panels that don't show any signs that they've seen damage in the past. They didn't go crazy with the customization, either, so it sticks with a single driver's side mirror and that funky woodgrained insert on the tailgate. The bed, which is the place where it's easiest to tell how serious the owner was about his work, shows extremely well with no major dings or damage, suggesting that this car has led a very easy life.El Camino interiors are another nice combination of street car comfort and commercial vehicle practicality. A bench seat allows three passengers, although the Hurst shifter kind of limits options in the middle position. The seat is in great shape, and if the seat cover is original it's shockingly nice for being more than 40 years old. A standard steering wheel adds some character to the otherwise all-business driver's compartment, and the original gauges include a very unusual factory tachometer with the usual aftermarket dials added underneath. The carpets have probably been replaced, since almost nothing that gets stepped on can last decades without showing any wear, but they look great and fit well. And in true survivor fashion, it still carries its original AM radio, although it's sadly no longer functional (it would be easy to replace, however). Vent windows are a nice touch, too, something I think we could still benefit from today if aerodynamics weren't more important than looks. The engine is the original 350 cubic inch "Turbo Fire" V8 that's ideal in the multi-purpose truck/car. Making 245 horsepower in stock trim, the orange powerplant is content to churn out torque at any speed and laughs at loads in the bed. Painted valve covers and a factory air cleaner are clues that this truck hasn't been modified, and with power steering and brakes, this hauler is a breeze to maneuver in traffic or parking lots. Cast iron manifolds control heat and noise, feeding a true dual exhaust system with glasspack-style mufflers and turn-downs just under the bumper to keep it looking fairly OEM. The Muncie 4-speed manual transmission and 10-bolt rear mean that you don't ever have to worry about breakage, and while it's not show quality underneath, it doesn't show any signs of trouble, either. Factory Rally wheels are an ideal choice, and sport staggered 225/60/15 front and 275/60/15 BFGoodrich T/A radials as protection.An awesome survivor with serious performance credentials, this El Camino is a very affordable way to own the A-list muscle you've always wanted without a huge investment. Call today!