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Curated Auction

1972 Chevrolet El Camino

At a Glance

Smart Presentation | Recent Service | Imported From California 2021

  • Mileage~51,912
  • TransmissionManual
  • Engine5.7L
  • LocationAshtead

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

Curated Auction

We’ve visited this car, taken the images and written the description below – we’ve also verified the seller’s ID and actioned a HPi report – learn more

CURATED AUCTION

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CURRENT BID£2,000
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AUCTION LIVE

ENDS IN: 56 Days 12 Hr 51 Min 51 Sec

CURRENT BID

£2,000

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Video #2

Introduction

Darren Rungasamy
Photographer and Editor

The adaptable El Camino deftly switches between a useful pick-up and punchy V8 coupe.

The Chevrolet El Camino offers the best of both worlds, a performance muscle car with the versatility of an open deck. The styling is derived from a car rather than a truck, allowing more refinement, comfort and usability than the traditional pick-up. First introduced in 1959, later incarnations of the El Camino were based on the Chevrolet Chevelle, sharing its bodywork and chassis underpinnings. With plenty of appeal to those attracted to aesthetics and style, the EL Camino was also offered with seven engine variations, with the small block 350 cu in (5.7 L) option fitted towards the top end of the line-up. In 1968, the third and the ultimate evolution of the El Camino was released. It became the last of the El Camino muscle cars, as increasing emissions diluted the power of subsequent versions. Cheap to maintain and less pricy than their coupe siblings, the El Camino also enjoys great parts support.

Imported into the UK in 2021, this former West Coast car is finished in metallic blue with a black vinyl interior. It retains many original parts with a handful of interior creature comforts. It was serviced in 2023 and has received attention to the brakes and engine. It's sold with an owner's booklet and two keys and is MOT and Road Tax exempt.

This listing was written from information supplied by Darren after meeting Jim the owner, and having visited and photographed the vehicle.

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8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Secure Auctions

We verify all our sellers and buyers to keep our community safe whilst also providing the highest levels of website security.

Full Transparency

8 out of 10 people that buy cars via our service don’t feel the need to visit due to the transparency and thoroughness of our listings.

Vehicle Delivery

We're there every step of your buying journey and will even arrange pick-up and delivery of your new vehicle.

Video #2

Meet the owner

Its one of a long list of my favourite American cars!

Jim has a long history of American car ownership, having owned several classic Chevys in the past including a Camaro SS and C3 Corvette. Active in the social scene, he tries to use the car as often as possible.

A lack of space and other commitments have forced the sale of the El Camino. Jim will be happy to answer any questions about the car in the comments section below.

Jim
Vehicle Owner

Ask Questions

CONTACT OWNER
EXTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Exterior

Years of life in a dry climate have preserved this solid example.

Wheels and Tyres

The American Racing 15x8 Torq Thrust wheels are in good shape, with just a mild sheen of age visible.

The Kelly Charger tyres are over 20 years old but do have plenty of tread. The nearside rear shows signs of age.

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Bodywork

The exterior presents well, showing flush-fitting panels and acceptable shut lines. All doors open and close with no issues. The metalwork is free of dents. We spotted a little corrosion on the lower section of the bottom of the nearside front wing. The rear deck floor shows some signs of age but appears to be solid. The engine bay, chassis rails, wheel wells, suspension mounts and floor pan all look solid. The underside has a light coat of surface rust.

We've highlighted in more detail our observations through our high-resolution images and videos, so please take time to look through all the media files for a detailed view of what’s on offer, and for you to assess the condition of the car for yourselves.

image

Paint

The metallic blue paint finish has a decent finish with a positive lustre. There are a few flat spots on the driver's door and rear wings. We noticed paint finish imperfections on the A-pillars, bonnet and roof, which show runs and a few under-paint reactions.

There’s a touch-up on the offside front wing, a few marks on the tailgate and a paint crack on the nearside B-pillar buttress. We still feel the car displays well, and the paintwork issues don’t distract too much.

The images are taken from a few different angles to show off the car as you would see it if you were standing there for yourselves. So please take the time to fully assess these high-resolution images and videos of the car, for you to make up your own minds about the condition of the paint.

image

Glass and Trim

The windscreen and its seal trim are in good shape, and the side and rear glass have mild scratch marks. The lights are decent, but there is a crack on the offside rear lens.

The body trim is complete and appears correct for the model year. All of the brightwork displays well with a decent lustre.

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INTERIOR VIDEO
Video #2

Interior

The interior has lasted well, combining a healthy mix of originality with a couple of useful modern provisions.

Seats and Carpets

The black vinyl seats are in good shape and above the expectations of a car of this age.

The carpets are in very good condition, all damp-free and clean.

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Dashboard

The dashboard padding is in good order, there are light marks noted on the glovebox but overall the facia displays well. The dials and controls are smartly presented. All are said to work as they should, with the exception of the oil pressure gauge which Jim tells us is a connection issue. The strip speedometer is cloudy but still legible.

The door cards are in good condition. The headlining will need some attention and require sun visors.

image

Steering Wheel / Gear Stick

The original spec steering wheel is fitted, and looks in good condition as expected for the age of the car. The gear lever is also in line with the age of the car with no significant flaws.

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'ON THE ROAD' VIDEO
Video #2

Mechanics

Recent servicing and maintenance has kept the V8 running sweetly.

Engine and Gearbox

The engine starts immediately, idling smoothly without hesitancy, wobbles or unwanted noises. The engine has seen a fair amount of attention, including a new/recon carburettor, radiator, starter motor, and distributor as well as a new exhaust system and headers. Once warm, the engine ticks over evenly, with no lingering exhaust smoke.

The engine is smartly presented and shows evidence of positive maintenance, having been checked over by a trusted mechanic. The car has an upgraded Borg Warner T5 five-speed gearbox. It operates smoothly with no reports of problems with the clutch.

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Suspension and Brakes

Its ride is free of unwanted mechanical noises, with no creaks or thuds heard on the day.

It brakes well, with no unwanted judders or squeals. It has seen new brake shoes, a master cylinder and a wheel cylinder.

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The Drive

The El Camino has the practicality of a pickup truck, with a muscle car presence and a few heads were turned during a memorable test drive. The engine delivers a visceral and addictive V8 thrum, it could overwhelm the dynamics and characteristics of the car. However, in the case of the EL Camino, the steering is sharp and it corners surprisingly well and manages the narrow and busy roads of Surrey with brio.

With a gentle prod of acceleration, the car pulls effortlessly, even in high gears, showing impressive flexibility. While there were minor trim and cabin rattles, the engine remained free of unwanted noises, as we cruised at 30 to 40 mph. Absorbing the lumpy roads with no negative feedback, the steering. We spent a little time in traffic and the engine temperature remained in check, thanks to the upgraded radiator. Jim has been happy with the reliability of the car.

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Electrics and Other

The car is fitted with an MP3 digital radio player, seat belts and a USB charger has been fitted in the cigarette lighter.

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Video #2

History and Paperwork

Imported in 2021, this car has seen maintenance here since, and presents in smart and solid condition.

Imported into the UK in 2021, the car is believed to have been a US West Coast car and retains its California number plate on the bulkhead. Jim bought the car in March 2023 and has seen new engine belts and a complete service. Previous invoices include service parts, a bearing, wheel cylinder and brake parts.

The car comes with its V5, an owner's handbook, two keys and it is MOT and Road tax exempt.

We’ve done all our usual seller checks including photo ID, V5 and also actioned a history check on the vehicle - this is a professional check operated by HPI that will highlight if the car has been previously stolen, recorded as being in an accident, or have any outstanding finance - note, this does not include a mileage history check.

We've summarised our own view on the car based on information gained from the seller in the listing above, however, as you can see, we go to great lengths to photograph and video the car in hi-resolution detail - this has been done for you to make your own assessment from the comfort of your sofa. So please sit back, have a cuppa and take your time to review everything on this listing in order to make your own assessment of the vehicle's condition. Viewings are also welcomed with all our listings, so please get in touch with us to arrange a suitable time - we just need to speak to you first and receive a valid photo ID before confirming.

If there's anything you're unsure about, no matter how small, then please first ask the owner in the comments area below before placing your bids, as bids can't be retracted and form a binding contract if you win the car - just like a traditional auction house.

Service History
Date Type Mileage
26-07-2023 Service
08-06-2023 Belts & Spark Plugs
27-04-2021 MOT 50,721
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Key Details
  • Model El Camino 350 V8
  • Transmission 5-Speed Manual
  • Reg Date (US) 01.01.1972
  • First UK Reg. Date 07-04-2021
  • CC 5,736
  • Mileage ~51,912
  • History Since 2021
  • Colour Metallic Blue
  • Interior Colour Black
  • Interior Trim Vinyl
  • Chassis # 1D80J2L526197
  • Engine # CEA2235
  • Last Service 26-07-2023
  • MOT 27-04-2021
  • MOT Exempt Yes
  • Road Tax Exempt Yes
  • HPi Clear Yes - all clear
  • Former Keepers 1 in UK
  • Tyre Brand Kelly Charger
  • Tyre Age 20+
  • # of Keys 2
  • LHD or RHD LHD
  • Visited Yes
  • Sale Type Private
  • Owned ~2 Years
  • Key Feature Original specification with interior enhancements
  • Auction ID 2825
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Video #2

All Images

Exterior

Interior

Mechanics

History and Paperwork

All Videos



Vehicle Location

Ashtead

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    Auction Bidding

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    Current Bid £2,000
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    Auction Ends Thu 12th Jun at 7.40pm
    Bidding History
    Previous Bids  1
    £2,000 bid by Bret29.05.25 @ 13:50:54
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    2 Comments
    NellyB
    NellyB
    20 hours ago

    Hi where is the vehiculle located and is it possible to view please?
    Neale

    ColinB
    ColinB
    Admin
      NellyB
    15 hours ago

    Hi Neale,

    The car is in Ashtead, we can help arrange a viewing for you, if you could send an email to hello@tradeclassics.com first, as we need to do some checks.

    Thanks,
    Colin.

    MORE COMMENTS MORE COMMENTS

    Market View

    We think this car compares favourably to the average El Camino you might come across listed for sale.

    We’re sure you have a good idea of the value of this vehicle by studying our thorough listing, however, you may be interested to see a selection of recent sales of the same and / or similar models.

    1971 Chevrolet El Camino

    Auction House Anglia Car Auctions

    Sale Date 10 Jun 23

    Sold Price £14,256

    SEE AUCTION

    1969 Chevrolet El Camino

    Auction House HandH

    Sale Date 14 Jun 23

    Sold Price £15,750

    SEE AUCTION

    Insurance Quote


    Average annual insurance premium for a El Camino like this is £TBC via our trusted partner ClassicLine.
    GET AN INSURANCE QUOTEAnd get 10% off when you mention us.

    *Quote is based on a garaged vehicle in CV32 5QY (Leamington Spa), travelling 3,000 miles per year, 1 driver who is 45 years of age and is free on accidents and convictions – valid Spring 2025.

    Delivery Calculator


    Vehicle Location

    Ashtead

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