Chevrolet El Camino (1st generation)
The flamboyant first-generation 'coupe utility' that combined Impala style with pick-up practicality.
- Power
- 230 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 9.5 s
- Top speed
- 106 mph
- Est. value
- $22k–$65k
About the Chevrolet El Camino
Introduced in 1959 to compete with the Ford Ranchero, the first-generation El Camino was based on the Brookwood station wagon and shared the radical 'batwing' styling of the Chevrolet Impala. It featured a 1.3-cubic-metre cargo bed lined with corrugated steel, yet offered the ride comfort and interior appointments of a full-size passenger car. The 4.6-litre (283 cu in) Small Block V8 was the most popular engine choice, providing respectable performance for a utility vehicle. Although it outsold the Ranchero in its debut year, production lasted only two seasons before a three-year hiatus, making these early finned models highly sought after by collectors.
Chevrolet El Camino specs
The Chevrolet El Camino produces 230 bhp (172 kW) and 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 9.5 seconds and has a top speed of 106 mph (170 km/h).
| Make | Chevrolet |
|---|---|
| Model | El Camino |
| Generation | First generation (1st generation) |
| Trim | 4.6 |
| Years | 1959–1960 |
| Type | Classic |
| Body style | Pick-up |
| Country | United States |
| Production | About 36,409 built |
| Original price | About $2,400 when new |
| Engine | 4.6-litre V8 |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 4,638 cc (4.6 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 230 bhp (172 kW) at 4,800 rpm |
| Torque | 407 Nm (300 lb-ft) |
| Redline | 5,200 rpm |
| 0–60 mph | 9.5 s |
| Top speed | 106 mph (170 km/h) |
| Transmission | 3-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 1,650 kg (3,638 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 139 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Chevrolet El Camino worth?
A typical Chevrolet El Camino is estimated to be worth $22,000 – $65,000 (about £16,000 – £48,000).
Its original price when new was about $2,400.
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Chevrolet El Camino rarity in CarSpot
The Chevrolet El Camino is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 47 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Chevrolet El Camino fun facts
- The 1959 El Camino was the first Chevrolet pick-up built with a car-based perimeter frame rather than a traditional truck chassis.
- Despite its stylish appearance, the El Camino was advertised with a payload capacity of up to 1,150 lbs, depending on the suspension setup.
- The 1959 model year featured the iconic 'cat's eye' taillights, which were replaced by a more conservative design for the 1960 model.
