Chasing Cars
ENGINE 5400cc/V8/OHV POWER 250bhp@4400rpm TORQUE 350lb ft@2800rpm MAXIMUM SPEED 112mph 0-60MPH 12sec FUEL CONSUMPTION 18-22mpg TRANSMISSION RWD, two-speed automatic MoT August 2018 ODOMETER 13,533 miles
WHAT’S IT LIKE TO DRIVE?
The engine pulls very well and is extremely smooth, working beautifully with the simple twospeed Powerglide automatic transmission. However, it can be rather difficult to tell what speed you are travelling at because the speedometer oscillates rather a lot. Also, neither the steering nor the brakes instil much confidence in the driver; the car likes to wander and the steering is loose while also pulling to the right. This is exacerbated by the soft and wallowing suspension; it all feels very boat-like, albeit with a comfortable and quiet ride. The brakes require quite a lot of effort to operate, too.
BODYWORK CHECK
The car has benefitted from restoration in the past and the bodywork appears to be in excellent condition at first glance. However, closer inspection reveals a few scratches, marks and scuffs, with some small areas of flaking paint, mainly on one rear wheelarch and in the bed, which will need to be addressed before any rust takes hold. The chrome is in superb condition, as are the wheels – they really set off the turquoise paint. All four tyres have plenty of tread remaining. The tailgate operates correctly and is in great condition; the doors and underside are equally clean. All the glass is in top condition.
HOW’S THE INTERIOR?
The grand, period dash is undamaged – the round dials look great, work correctly and are augmented by two additional gauges for oil pressure and water temperature. The two-tone bench seat looks fresh and the carpets, doorcards and headlining are in good condition. Overall the interior is complete and tidy, but it would benefit from a full clean.
UNDER THE BONNET
The small block Chevrolet engine still retains a good coating of bright red paint and all the hoses, belts and ancillaries are in top condition. The engine doesn’t appear to have any leaks and sounds healthy at start-up and when running. The engine bay itself is very well presented. The 327ci V8 wasn’t an option on the 1960 El Camino, so it’s not original to the car and was most likely fitted during restoration. As the car lacks any real documentation, it’s not known whether any additional upgrades have been made to the camshaft, cylinder heads, pistons or intake manifold.
THE CCW VIEW
This El Camino’s quintessentially late 1950s American styling is sure to make an impression at classic car shows. Although less well-known than most other classics of the era, this is by no means a bad thing and there’s no denying that it’s as practical as it is interesting. Just be prepared to spend some time bringing the steering and brakes up to standard.