Home The History of the Second Generation El Camino (1964-67)

The History of the Second Generation El Camino (1964-67)

The era of the first generation El Camino ended in 1960 with less than 15,000 orders. Four years later, Chevy introduced the second generation El Camino based on the Chevelle model that lasted only until 1967 and there is little wonder: It was released as a utility sedan with lackluster engine power and occupancy for only two or three (or four if the majority of the occupants were children. Federal safety laws were very different back then).

Standard equipment included air shocks, a 3-speed manual transmission, 4-speed manual transmission, and a 2-speed Powerglide automatic transmission.

The '64 El Camino models were equipped with several powertrains such as the 194 cubic inch engine rated at 120 horsepower; a 230 cubic inch 6-cylinder engine with 155 horsepower rating; and a V8 283 cubic inch small block with a 2 barrel carb rated at 195 horsepower. The 283 V8 could be upgraded to provide 220 horsepower, a 4 barrel carburetor, and dual exhaust. An optional engine in two versions was also available. The 327 cubic inch small block V8 with either 250 horsepower or 300 horsepower that provided a high compression ratio of 10.5:1.

The '65 El Camino received a body upgrade to match the Chevelle model for that year. The front end was shaped like an arrow, or "V", which gave the Chevelle a sleeker, more aerodynamic look that fed into the muscle car appeal. Still, the equipment lacked as only the '64 engines and transmissions were offered as well as the higher performance 327 engine.

Chevy at last offered a more powerful 396 cubic inch V8 engine (6.5 liter) with a horsepower rating of 325 to 375 for the 1966 El Camino. While this year model received a spanky new instrument panel and standard bench seating, most available equipment remained the same. A custom El Camino however mimicked the Chevy Malibu, offering plush interior upholstery, optional Strato swivel bucket seats and a tachometer.

Then, the 1967 El Camino received a new front grille, front bumper, and trim, a collapsible steering column (very new), and optional disc brakes while the 396 cubic inch engine and 3-speed TurboHydramatic 400 automatic transmission remained available from the 66 year model. Chevy also offered the L34 (350 horsepower) and L78 (375 horsepower) engines while the TurboHydramatic 400 was optional with the 396 engine in both the 396 equipped El Camino and the SS396 series.

Restoring the classic El Camino you love? Choose genuine OEM Chevy parts for the project. There are three reasons why.

They'll be OE quality. In other words, manufacturer quality: Chevrolet designs and builds its parts to its own exacting standards. Aftermarket brands may not always have the same.

They're guaranteed compatible. Unlike aftermarket car parts, what Chevy makes for its El Camino models comes guaranteed to fit them. That includes yours, whether it's the seminal 1964 model or one of the classics from 1965, 1966, or 1967.

They're covered by a warranty. It's unlikely that you'll run into any defects in either materials or workmanship quality. If you do, though, you'll be taken care of. That kind of peace of mind, you won't get shopping for classic El Camino parts on the Chevy aftermarket.

You're in luck. The selection we offer here at Classic Muscle, you won't find elsewhere, let alone at sale prices like ours. You can even order what your ride needs right here online.

Classic Chevy El Camino Parts for Sale | Shop Our Online Catalog for the 1964-1967 Model Years

If you want to find, say, the '64 El Camino parts you've been in search of, and do it more quickly and easily, just search its part number. (We carry plenty of other El Camino parts from other eras, too.) Otherwise, browse our inventory and buy now, and we can ship your order fast, anywhere in the US. Have any questions? Contact our parts team today!

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