As you venture the world of car-based pickups, you’ll find several models that share similarities with the iconic Chevrolet El Camino. From the Ford Ranchero’s sleek design to the GMC Sprint/Caballero’s rugged heritage, each of these vehicles offers a unique take on the car-pickup fusion.
You might be surprised by the Subaru Brat’s off-road prowess or the Toyota Crown Pickup’s luxurious features. Which of these El Camino-esque cars will catch your attention?
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Key Takeaways
- Ford Ranchero is a car-based pickup with a range of engines and design changes over the years, similar to the Chevrolet El Camino.
- GMC Sprint/Caballero is a badge-engineered version of the El Camino with a unique GMC heritage twist, offering similar style and functionality.
- Subaru Brat is a Japanese ute with ruggedness, reliability, and off-road capabilities, providing an alternative to the El Camino’s muscle car vibe.
- Toyota Crown Pickup and Corona Pickup are rare Japanese utes with a rich Toyota heritage, appealing to collectors and enthusiasts of unique vehicles.
- Dodge Dakota Sport is a high-performance ute with a sporty vibe and impressive handling, catering to those who want a faster and more agile El Camino alternative.
Ute Models
In terms of ute models, you’ve got a range of options that share similarities with the Chevrolet El Camino.
Car-based pickups like the Ford Ranchero and GMC Sprint/Caballero are notable examples.
The Ranchero, produced from 1957 to 1979, offered a range of engines and underwent design changes.
The Sprint/Caballero, available from 1971 to 1987, shared its platform with the El Camino, offering similar engines and trim levels.
These utes offer varying levels of performance, style, and functionality, making them viable alternatives to the El Camino.
Ford Ranchero
As you delve into the Ford Ranchero, you’ll notice its design evolution over the years, from its original Fairlane-based styling to its later, more squared-off appearance.
You’ll also have a range of performance options to ponder, including a 250-cubic inch six and a 429 V-8 engine.
With its unique blend of car and truck features, the Ranchero offers a distinct driving experience that’s worth investigating.
Ranchero Design Evolution
During its production run, the Ford Ranchero underwent significant design changes, largely influenced by its platform sharing with other Ford models, such as the Fairlane, and its adaptation to changing safety and emissions regulations.
You’ll notice the 1972-1976 models gained bulk, offering engines ranging from a 250-cubic inch six to a 429 V-8. Trim levels like the 500, GT, and Squire were introduced, each with unique features.
As a car-based pickup, the Ranchero’s evolution mirrors that of the El Caminos, with a focus on comfort and practicality. Its design changes reflect the era’s shifting priorities on safety and emissions.
Ranchero Performance Options
When you step behind the wheel of a Ford Ranchero, you’re met with a range of performance options that cater to different driving styles and preferences.
From 1972 to 1976, you could opt for engines ranging from a 250-cubic inch six to a powerful 429 V-8, offering a significant boost in power.
In 1974, a 220-hp V-8 was introduced, providing even more oomph.
Although there wasn’t a diesel engine option, the Ranchero’s performance capabilities made it an attractive choice for those seeking a balance between power and practicality.
Chevrolet El Camino
You’re likely drawn to the Chevrolet El Camino‘s unique blend of car-like comfort and truck-like utility.
This iconic vehicle was available from 1959 to 1987, with various engine options, including powerful big-block V-8s in the 1971-1972 models.
The El Camino’s redesigns in 1973 and 1978 introduced more modern looks, but with less powerful engines.
Unlike the Ford Ranger, which focused on SUV capabilities, the El Camino balanced style and functionality.
With an estimated 10-15 MPG on the highway, it’s not the most fuel-efficient option, but its charm lies in its versatility and nostalgic appeal.
GMC Sprint/Caballero
The GMC Sprint/Caballero shares a striking resemblance with the Chevrolet El Camino, and for good reason – it’s a badge-engineered version of the iconic vehicle.
You’ll find the same platform, engines, and trim levels as the El Camino, but with a unique GMC heritage twist.
The Caballero style offers a more aggressive stance and stripes, setting it apart from its Chevy counterpart.
If you’re looking for Sprint performance, you won’t be disappointed.
With median-condition prices under $15K and special models like the Caballero Diablo carrying a 15% premium, the Sprint/Caballero is an attractive alternative to the El Camino.
Subaru Brat
This Japanese ute‘s ruggedness and reliability earned it a loyal following in the US market during the late 1970s and early 1980s.
You’ll appreciate the Brat’s off-road capabilities, thanks to its four-wheel-drive system and high-ground clearance. Its rural usage is further augmented by the available T-top roof and rear seat.
As a collector or enthusiast, you’ll find the Brat’s affordability appealing, with median-condition values under $5,000.
Initially created for the Japanese market, the Brat’s unique feature – rear-facing jump seats – allowed it to bypass the 25% Chicken Tax, making it a unique offering in the ute market.
Ute History and Culture
As you venture into the domain of utes, it’s fascinating to see how these vehicles have woven themselves into the fabric of various cultures.
From ute enthusiast communities to ute lifestyle trends, these vehicles have become an integral part of many people’s lives.
- Ute cultural significance is evident in their widespread use in rural areas, where they’re essential for daily tasks and outdoor activities.
- In Australia, utes are a staple of the country’s car culture, with many owners customizing their vehicles to reflect their personalities.
- The ute’s versatility has also led to the emergence of unique subcultures, such as the “ute lifestyle” movement, which celebrates the freedom and adventure that these vehicles provide.
Toyota Crown Pickup
You’re likely to stumble upon a gem like the Toyota Crown Pickup when searching for cars similar to the Chevrolet El Camino.
This Japanese rarity is a sought-after collector’s item, especially among Crown collectors. The Crown Pickup was only exported to the US for a short time, making it a unique find for American collectors.
With its design and features shared with the Toyota Crown, Toyota’s oldest nameplate, this pickup boasts a rich Toyota heritage. Its two-door pickup form, offered in S40 and S50 models during the 1960s, closely resembles the El Camino and Ford Ranchero.
Toyota Corona Pickup
You may not be familiar with the Toyota Corona Pickup, but it’s another car similar to the Chevrolet El Camino that was imported to the US.
This pickup came in Single and Double Cab configurations, offering varying levels of space and functionality.
Despite its availability, the Toyota Corona Pickup remains a rare sight in America, making it a unique alternative to the El Camino.
Imported to US
Toyota Corona Pickup, a Japanese-built truck, was imported to the US market from 1964 to 1969.
You might be surprised to learn that this pickup was one of the first car imports from a foreign market to gain popularity in the US.
To comply with import regulations, Toyota made modifications to the Corona Pickup, including adapting it to meet American safety and emission standards.
Some key features of the imported Toyota Corona Pickup include:
- A 1.9-liter inline-four engine producing 80 horsepower
- A four-speed manual transmission as standard
- A compact size that made it ideal for city driving
Single and Double Cab
The Corona Pickup’s cab configuration played a significant role in its appeal, offering buyers a choice between a single cab and a double cab.
You’d the flexibility to choose the cab style that suited your needs. The single cab was ideal for those who prioritized cargo space, while the double cab provided additional passenger seating.
Across both cab styles, the Corona Pickup was available in various trim levels, including the luxurious LE model, which boasted premium features like velour upholstery and a push-button radio.
These options allowed you to customize your pickup to fit your lifestyle.
Rare in America
Corona Pickup’s brief American tenure makes it a rare find in the US market, with its production limited to just a few years in the 1960s and 1970s.
You’ll likely encounter American scarcity, making rare sightings a treat for enthusiasts.
This forgotten classic is a gem, and here’s what you need to know:
- Its compact size and lightweight design made it an attractive option for those seeking a practical work vehicle.
- The Corona Pickup’s 1.9L inline-four engine provided sufficient power for its time.
- Despite its short production run, the Corona Pickup has a dedicated following among Toyota enthusiasts and collectors.
Nissan Sunny Truck
You might be surprised to find that the Nissan Sunny Truck, a model that debuted in 1971, shared its design and chassis with the B110 Nissan Sunny, also known as the Datsun 1200.
This Japanese workhorse remained largely unchanged throughout its production run, with minor updates and facelifts over the years.
Its Sunny styling and Nissan heritage made it a beloved model in Japan, where it was sold new until 1994.
As the most successful and popular pickup of its kind, the Sunny Truck has a dedicated following in Japan, cementing its place in the country’s automotive history.
Honda Life Pickup
Introduced in 1973, Honda’s Life Pickup was an unusual experiment in compact utility, built on the micro-sized Honda Life van platform.
You might be surprised to learn that this micro pickup was powered by a 356cc two-cylinder engine, sending power to the front wheels.
Here are some key features that set it apart:
- As a Japanese rarity, the Life Pickup was a unique attempt at creating a small pickup truck.
- With its compact size, it was a small wonder that could navigate tight spaces with ease.
- Despite its capabilities, the Life Pickup didn’t gain much popularity in the market, making it a rare find today.
Toyota Bb Open Deck
The Toyota Bb Open Deck, a compact pickup truck, brings a unique blend of style and functionality to the table.
You’ll notice its sleek Toyota styling, perfectly suited for traversing Japanese roads.
This truck’s open deck design allows for easy loading and unloading, making it a practical choice for daily drivers.
In Japan’s car culture, the Bb Open Deck is a popular option for those seeking a reliable workhorse that can handle heavy payloads.
With its ruggedness and versatility, it’s no wonder this truck has gained a loyal following among drivers who value its no-nonsense approach to hauling.
Other Utes and Concepts
You’re about to venture into some of the more unusual utes and concepts that never quite made it to the mainstream.
The Ford Durango, for instance, is a rare find, with only 200 units built, while unique creations like the Dodge Charger ute, built with a kit from Smyth Performance, show what’s possible with a little creativity.
Meanwhile, overlooked models like the Dodge Rampage and Plymouth Scamp offer a glimpse into what could have been.
Ford Durango Rarity
Ford’s foray into the utility segment resulted in the Durango, a rare breed of pickup-crossover hybrid that, although not directly comparable to the El Camino, shares some conceptual similarities.
You might be surprised to learn that the Durango’s unique blend of SUV capabilities and pickup practicality didn’t exactly set the sales charts ablaze. Despite this, the Durango has developed a loyal following among Ford collectors.
- Durango sales were modest, with only around 350,000 units sold between 1998 and 2003.
- The Durango’s quirky design and limited production run have contributed to its rarity, making it a sought-after find for Ford enthusiasts.
- As a result, prices for mint-condition Durangos have been known to climb, making them a valuable addition to any Ford collector’s garage.
Unique Ute Concepts
Beyond the Durango, several other unique ute concepts have emerged over the years, each attempting to carve out its own niche in the market.
You’ll find urban utility blended with concept artistry in models like the Honda Urban EV Concept, which showcases a futuristic take on the ute.
Meanwhile, the Audi AI:TRAIL Quattro Concept embodies automotive innovation, featuring a modular, autonomous design.
These concepts push the boundaries of what a ute can be, offering a glimpse into the future of urban transportation.
They may not be direct El Camino clones, but they share its spirit of innovation and experimentation.
Overlooked Ute Models
As the automotive world continues to evolve, some ute models have flown under the radar, deserving more attention for their unique characteristics and capabilities.
You might be surprised to discover these overlooked classics, hidden treasures that boast impressive performance, style, and practicality.
Some forgotten gems worth exploring include:
- The 1970s International Harvester Pickup, a rugged and reliable workhorse with a loyal following
- The 1980s Subaru BRAT, a quirky and capable off-road ute with a cult following
- The 1990s Dodge Dakota Sport, a high-performance ute with a sporty vibe and impressive handling
Miscellaneous
You might be surprised to learn that there are several cars similar to the Chevrolet El Camino that didn’t quite make it into the mainstream.
The Ford Durango, for instance, was a rare find with only 200 units produced. The Dodge Rampage and Plymouth Scamp were also overlooked, with very few remaining.
The VW Rabbit/Golf UTE, with its 50hp diesel, didn’t impress car enthusiasts.
Meanwhile, the Ford Ranchero was eventually phased out, making way for other Ford trucks.
The Subaru BRAT, with its unique rear-facing jump seats, has seen a significant increase in value over the past five years.
Japanese Car-Based Pickups
Japanese automakers have long experimented with car-based pickups, yielding some fascinating results.
You might be surprised by the unique offerings from Japan, often characterized by their Domestic Rarity. One notable example is the Honda Life Pickup, a micro-sized pickup based on the Honda Life van, which was part of the Japanese Kei car class.
Other interesting options include:
- The Toyota Crown Pickup, a stylish two-door pickup popular among collectors and customizers in the 1960s
- The Nissan Sunny Truck, which shared its design and chassis with the B110 Nissan Sunny and remained largely unchanged until its production ended in 1994
- The Toyota bB Open Deck, a modern Unique Conversion featuring a double tailgate system, but not exported to the US
Conclusion
As you weigh your options, bear in mind that the grass isn’t always greener on the other side – each car has its unique pros and cons. The Ford Ranchero’s design evolution, GMC Sprint/Caballero’s heritage, Subaru Brat’s ruggedness, and Toyota’s offerings all bring something new to the table. Ultimately, the right car for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. By considering these cars similar to the Chevrolet El Camino, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect ride that drives home your individuality.
