1980 Chevrolet El Camino

The Chevrolet El Camino was produced in 1959 and 1960, and then from 1964 through 1987. It was based on a two-door station wagon platform with a cargo bed in the back. When introduced in 1959, it was Chevrolet's response to the Ford Ranchero coupe utility which had strong sales successes.

The fifth generation El Camino was introduced in 1978 and remained in production through 1987. They were available in four trim levels consisting of the Classic, Black Knight (1978) and Royal Knight (1979 - 1983), Super Sport and Conquista. Power was from a 90-degree V6 engine and Buick V6 engines. The optional small block V8 displacing 305 cubic-inches offered 150 or 165 horsepower. From 1982 through 1984, an optional Oldsmobile-sourced diesel engine was available. The base engine was a 200 cubic-inch V6 that offered nearly 100 horsepower, or a 350 CID V8 with 170 horsepower which was available only in the Malibu station wagons and El Caminos.

The fifth generation El Camino had Malibu styling and a wheelbase that was one inch longer (117 inches), although for the first time it had its own unique chassis which it did not share with any other Chevrolet. The doors and front were shared with the Malibu, and the bumper and rear tailgate were sourced from the Malibu station wagon.

By Daniel Vaughan | May 2019