You’re likely wondering if there’s any truth to the El Camino having similar counterparts. Indeed, there are. The Ford Ranchero, Chevrolet El Camino, GMC Sprint/Caballero, Subaru BRAT, and Holden Ute share similarities with the iconic car.
What sets them apart, though, is their unique features and capabilities. You’ll want to delve into how each of these cars compares to the El Camino.
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Key Takeaways
- The Ford Ranchero is a classic alternative to the El Camino, featuring a range of engine options and trim levels.
- The GMC Sprint/Caballero is a badge-engineered version of the El Camino, offering an affordable alternative with median-condition values under $15K.
- The Subaru BRAT is a Japanese ute that serves as a quirky and reliable alternative to the El Camino, available in median condition for around $5K.
- The Holden Ute is a car-like pickup with a fully independent suspension, offering a modern alternative to the El Camino.
- The 2006 Subaru Baja is a modern alternative to the El Camino, featuring a turbocharged engine and switchback functionality.
Ford Ranchero (1972–76, 1977–79)
You’ll find the 1972-1976 Ford Ranchero gained significant bulk, ranging from a 250-cubic inch six to a 429 V-8, making it a more substantial vehicle.
In 1973, 5-mph bumpers were added, further increasing its size.
The 220-hp V-8 engine introduced more power in 1974.
The 1975 Ranchero came with converters added and offered trim levels like the 500, 500 GT, and Squire, featuring a woodgrain exterior.
As a pickup, the Ford Ranchero’s median-condition #2 value is $20,900, representing a 101% increase.
Chevrolet El Camino (1973-77, 1978-87)
You’ll notice that the Chevrolet El Camino underwent significant design evolution from 1973 to 1987, with the 1973-1977 models featuring larger dimensions and bigger bumpers,
while the 1978-1987 models sported a slimmed-down look.
During this period, you’d a range of engine options, including V-6s, small-blocks, and big-blocks, with various trim levels like the SS, Conquista, and Royal Knight.
As you delve the different models, you’ll find that the engine options and trim levels played a significant role in shaping the El Camino’s identity.
Design Evolution
As the 1970s dawned, Chevrolet’s El Camino underwent a significant design evolution, marked by the introduction of the all-new Colonnade look for mid-size cars.
You’ll notice the ’73-’77 models boasted larger overall dimensions, despite reduced performance.
The ’78-’87 El Camino models introduced a more streamlined look, featuring smaller engines like Chevy or Buick V-6s and 305- or 350-cubic-inch small-blocks.
Special models, such as the two-tone Conquista, Royal Knight, and the ’83-’87 Choo Choo Customs, added to the Chevy El Camino’s appeal.
Engine Options
In regards to powering the El Camino, Chevrolet offered a range of engine options for the 1973-1977 models.
You’d a choice of Chevy engines, from a 307/2-barrel V-8 to 400- and 454-cubic-inch V-8s, including the sporty SS option.
The 1978-1987 models featured smaller engines, including Chevrolet or Buick V-6s and 305- or 350-cubic-inch small-blocks.
The 454-cubic-inch V-8 produced 360 horsepower, while the 305-cubic-inch small-block V-8 in the 1978-1987 SS model produced 155 horsepower.
Trim Levels
The Chevrolet El Camino’s trim levels cater to various tastes and preferences.
From 1973 to 1977, you could choose from the base El Camino, SS, or Conquista, which added a touch of elegance with its two-tone paint.
The SS, available on both generations, featured a sporty appearance package and upgraded engine options.
In the 1978-1987 models, the Royal Knight, a premium option, offered a unique paint scheme and upgraded interior features.
You can customize your El Camino experience with these trim levels, each offering distinct features to suit your driving style.
GMC Sprint/Caballero (1973–77, 1978–87)
Between 1973 and 1987, you’ll find the GMC Sprint/Caballero, a badge-engineered version of the Chevrolet El Camino, sharing its platform, engines, and trim levels.
While identical under the skin, the Sprint/Caballero stands out with its aggressive stance and stripes. The 1973-1977 generation sports a more angular design, whereas the 1978-1987 generation features a rounded appearance.
Special models like the Conquista, Royal Knight, and 1983-1987 Choo Choo add to its appeal.
With median-condition values under $15K and all #3 values under $10K, the GMC Sprint/Caballero is an affordable El Camino alternative.
Subaru BRAT (1978–87)
You might be surprised to find a Japanese ute, the Subaru BRAT, as a viable alternative, especially considering its popularity in the US market in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
This rugged and reliable American ute features a four-wheel-drive system and high-ground clearance, making it suitable for off-road driving.
With a unique feature like rear-facing jump seats, the BRAT was created by putting a pickup body on the Subaru Leone station wagon platform.
As a rare and quirky vehicle, its median-condition value has increased 191% over the past five years, making it an affordable option, unlike the Subaru Baja.
1987 Subaru Brat
Rounding out the list of cars similar to El Camino, the 7 Subaru Brat is a worthy contender.
As a Japanese pickup truck, it was popular in the US market from 1978 to 1987.
You’ll find it’s equipped with a 1.6-liter boxer engine, delivering 67 HP or 73 HP, and a fuel economy of 25 mpg city and 34 mpg highway.
Weighing 2,200 lbs, it’s fuel-efficient and easy to drive.
With its ruggedness and reliability, the Subaru Brat is a great alternative to the El Camino, and you can own one in median condition for around $5K.
1984 Dodge Rampage
| Transmission | Popularity |
|---|---|
| Manual | Less popular |
| Automatic | More popular |
| Curb Weight | Fuel Efficiency |
| 2,400 pounds | 24 mpg city, 34 mpg highway |
| Production Run | Rarity |
| 1982-1984 | Rare and unique find |
The Dodge Rampage, a blend of passenger car and pickup trucks, remains a rare find in the modern car market, sought after by enthusiasts for its restored or well-maintained models.
1979 Ford Ranchero
You’ll find the Ford Ranchero’s engine and performance offerings varied across its lifespan, with options like big-block engines and a 220-hp V-8 engine.
Its interior and features evolved with the addition of 5-mph bumpers and converter-equipped models, as well as trim levels like the 500 GT, and Squire.
As you delve the Ranchero’s design and history, you’ll discover its redesign in the late 1970s and its eventual phasing out to make way for other Ford trucks.
Engine and Performance
The 1972-1976 Ford Ranchero’s engine lineup expanded to cater to varied performance needs, featuring a range of options from a 250-cubic inch six-cylinder to a powerful 429 V-8.
You’ll find the perfect engine to match your driving style.
- A 220-hp V-8 was introduced in 1974, boosting the Ranchero’s power output.
- The 1975 model offered various trim levels, including the 500, GT, 500 GT, and the woodgrain-wearing Squire.
- Engine options were designed to provide ideal performance, whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling tough terrain.
- The engine lineup was designed to cater to different driving needs, ensuring a smooth ride and impressive acceleration.
- With its range of engine options, the Ford Ranchero delivers exceptional performance and reliability.
Interior and Features
Inside the Ford Ranchero, a fusion of style and functionality awaits.
You’ll notice the steering wheel wrapped in leather, matching the upholstery and trim for a cohesive look.
The dashboard trim is also adorned with leather, adding to the overall aesthetic.
Functionality is key, with features like beefed-up brakes and an automatic parking brake release function, ensuring a safe ride.
With a focus on comfort and convenience, the Ranchero’s interior is designed to provide a smooth, enjoyable driving experience.
Design and History
Ford’s design team crafted a sleek, aerodynamic profile for the Ranchero, which debuted in 1957 as a badge-engineered version of the Fairlane.
Like the El Camino, the Ranchero’s design was a fusion of car and truck elements.
- The 1972-1976 Ranchero was downsized but still offered a big-block engine option, including a 429 V-8 engine.
- The 1973 Ranchero added bigger 5-mph bumpers, and the 500 and GT trim levels were introduced.
- The 1974 Ranchero introduced a 220-hp V-8 engine, and trim levels included the 500, GT, 500 GT, and Squire with a woodgrain finish.
- The median condition #2 value of the 1972-1979 Ranchero has increased by 101% over the past decade, reaching $20,900.
- The Ranchero’s design evolution mirrors that of the El Camino, with a focus on performance and style.
2006 Subaru Baja
You’re probably drawn to the El Camino’s unique blend of car-like handling and truck-like utility.
If so, you’ll appreciate the little Japanese Subaru Baja, a unique car-truck hybrid produced from 2003 to 2006.
Its 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produced 165 horsepower and 166 lb-ft of torque, and its switchback feature extended from 41.5 inches to 60 inches.
With a fully independent suspension, it drove more like a car than a truck, ideal for rutted dirt roads and sandy places.
The turbocharged variant produced 210 horsepower and 235 lb-ft of torque, making it a more powerful option.
2017 Holden Ute
You’ll find the Holden Ute‘s power and performance come courtesy of its 3.6L V6 engine, which puts out 281 HP and 350 ft-lb of torque.
In terms of design and features, the Ute boasts a spacious tray area and independent rear suspension, making it suitable for towing small to medium-sized trailers.
As regards engine and transmission, the Holden Ute’s capable setup provides a smooth ride, even on rough roads.
Power and Performance
What makes the Holden Ute a standout in its class is its exceptional power and performance.
You’ll experience this firsthand with the 3.6L V6 engine, which generates 281 HP and 350 ft-lb of torque. This makes it ideal for towing small and medium-sized trailers.
Some key performance features include:
- 281 HP for smooth acceleration, even with heavy loads or towing
- 350 ft-lb of torque for reliable power delivery
- Independent rear suspension for a quality, unladen ride
- Ample storage tray space for daily driving and small tasks a breeze
- Smooth, efficient acceleration with the V6 engine
Design and Features
The Holden Ute’s design and features build upon its impressive power and performance.
You’ll appreciate the fully independent suspension, which makes it drive more like a car than a truck, handling rutted dirt and sandy terrain with confidence.
The tray measures 1,878mm long, 1,454mm wide, and 500mm high, offering vast storage behind the seats.
This design makes the Holden Ute similar to the El Camino, with its focus on both form and function.
Engine and Transmission
Powering the Holden Ute is a 3.6L V6 engine, generating 281 HP and 350 ft-lb of torque, making it ideal for towing small and middle-sized trailers.
You’ll appreciate the Holden Ute’s transmission is designed to work seamlessly with the engine, providing smooth gear shifts.
- The engine isn’t diesel, but it still packs a punch for towing and hauling.
- The transmission is designed for peak fuel efficiency.
- You’ll have no issues driving on steep inclines with this engine.
- The engine’s torque is suitable for highway driving.
- The transmission’s smooth gear shifts make for a comfortable ride.
1984 Volkswagen Caddy
Four decades ago, you could’ve navigated congested urban landscapes in the 1984 Volkswagen Caddy, a compact pickup truck designed for agility and efficiency.
With a wheelbase, you’d enjoy easy parking and a tight turning radius. The 1.6-liter diesel engine delivered 50 horsepower, making it one of the smaller engines of its time, perfect for city driving.
Its curb weight of around 1,800 pounds made it lightweight and efficient. The compact size and low-slung interior design made it an attractive option for city dwellers and small businesses seeking a reliable, fuel-efficient workhorse.
Conclusion
As you venture into the world of cars similar to El Camino, you’ve seen a spectrum of power and innovation. From the Ford Ranchero’s 429 V-8 roar to the Holden Ute’s 281 HP punch, each model brings its own flavor to the table. Like a puzzle, each piece fits distinctively, showcasing the diversity of this car family.
