INTRODUCTION

The 1985 Chevrolet El Camino represents one of the final iterations of Chevy’s iconic car-truck hybrid. Combining the comfort and styling of a passenger car with the utility of a pickup bed, the El Camino was in its fifth generation by 1985 and was based on the GM G-body platform. This unique body style appealed to buyers looking for something distinct from conventional trucks or sedans.

HISTORY & ORIGINS

The El Camino was first introduced in 1959 as a response to Ford’s Ranchero. After a brief hiatus, it returned in 1964 and evolved through several generations. By 1985, the El Camino was nearing the end of its production life (which concluded in 1987). The model was built on the same platform as the Chevrolet Malibu and Monte Carlo, and offered both utility and personal-luxury appeal during a time when trucks were becoming more popular for everyday use.

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE OPTIONS

The 1985 El Camino was offered with a selection of engines catering to both economy and performance-minded drivers:

• 3.8L (229 cu in) V6 – ~110 hp

• 4.3L (262 cu in) V6 – ~130 hp

• 5.0L (305 cu in) V8 – ~150–165 hp (base V8 option)

• 5.7L (350 cu in) V8 diesel – ~105 hp (rare option)

Transmissions:

• 3-speed automatic (most common)

• 4-speed automatic (overdrive available)

• 3-speed manual (rare in these years)

The 4.3L V6 became the standard engine in 1985, replacing the smaller 3.8L in most trims.

DESIGN & FEATURES

The 1985 El Camino retained its classic profile: a long hood, cab-forward passenger compartment, and integrated pickup bed. Notable features include:

• Single-piece grille with quad square headlights

• Body-color bumpers on higher trims

• Targa-style band on rear sail panel

• Options: Rally wheels, bed liner, tonneau cover, vinyl roof

Interior features:

• Bench or bucket seats (depending on trim)

• Available power windows/locks

• Optional air conditioning, tilt steering, AM/FM cassette stereo

TRIM LEVELS & VARIANTS

There were three core trim levels in 1985:

• Base – Simplest version with minimal exterior trim

• Conquista – Mid-level with special paint/stripe treatment and upgraded interior

• SS (Super Sport) – Sportiest trim with unique front end (Monte Carlo-inspired), performance graphics, and blackout trim

Some models included the Choo Choo Customs conversion (available on SS), which added body kits, special badges, and interior enhancements for a custom street-rod look.

SAFETY & TECHNOLOGY

Safety and tech features were basic by modern standards:

• Front disc brakes / rear drums

• Optional anti-theft system

• Side-impact beams in doors

• Lap belts (no airbags)

• Halogen headlamps

• Optional cruise control

The El Camino prioritized style and function over cutting-edge safety tech, though build quality and visibility were praised.

FUEL ECONOMY & EFFICIENCY

Fuel economy varied by engine:

• 4.3L V6 – ~18–21 mpg city / 24–27 mpg highway

• 5.0L V8 – ~15–17 mpg city / 20–23 mpg highway

• Diesel – ~22–27 mpg combined (uncommon and low-powered)

El Caminos used carburetors (no EFI yet), and the addition of overdrive on some automatic transmissions helped stretch fuel range.

MARKET COMPARISON

In 1985, there were few direct competitors to the El Camino. Notable rivals included:

• Ford Ranchero – Already discontinued by 1979

• Subaru BRAT – Smaller and AWD, but lacked muscle

• Dodge Rampage / Plymouth Scamp – Front-wheel-drive unibody light trucks

The El Camino had no true peer, making it unique in the market. Buyers appreciated its RWD performance and Chevy V8 pedigree.

PRICING

• Original MSRP (1985):

  • Base: ~$8,300

  • SS: ~$10,200 with options

  • Choo Choo Customs: Additional $2,000–$3,000 (dealer added)

• Used Market (2025):

  • Driver-quality: $10,000–$16,000

  • SS or Conquista models: $18,000–$30,000

  • Show-quality/Choo Choo Custom: $30,000–$45,000+

Condition, originality, and trim have a major impact on value.

NOTABLE AWARDS & ACCOLADES

While the 1985 El Camino didn’t earn mainstream awards, it holds its place in automotive culture:

• Cult classic status among collectors and hot-rodders

• Featured in films, music videos, and custom car culture

• Honored in multiple collector car publications for its iconic hybrid design

It remains one of the most recognizable American vehicles of the 1980s.