1985 El Camino Specs
by Steve JohnsonThe El Camino was introduced by Chevrolet in 1959 as a coupe utility vehicle, and as an answer to the Ford Ranchero. The first generation was only produced for two years. It reemerged in 1964 on its second generation, borrowing most of its design and platform to the Chevrolet Chevelle. In 1987, the Last El Camino was released on the market almost 30 years after its debut. The 1985 model is a part of El Camino's fifth generation, which was produced from 1978 to 1987.
Trim
El Caminos are considered to be half-pickup trucks and half-cars, and were produced by Chevrolet to rival the popular line of Ford Rancheros. The 1985 model was released as a two-door light delivery vehicle that could seat two passengers. It came in two major trims: the base model and the SS model. The base model could be upgraded with the Conquista package that included a different body molding. Optional features included air conditioning, an AM/FM audio system, power steering, and a tilt steering wheel. Both models were released as rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Engine and Performance
The base power train for the 1985 El Camino is a 4.3L V6 engine with 130 horsepower at 3,600 rpm and a torque of 210 foot-pounds at 2,000 rpm. Bore and stroke is 101.6 mm by 88.39 mm with a compression ratio of 9.3:1. El Camino was also offered with a power train upgrade: a 5.0L V8 OHV engine with 150 horsepower at 4,000 rpm, and a torque of 324 foot-pounds at 2,000 rpm. Bore and stroke is 95mm x 88.4mm, which combines with a compression ratio of 9.50:1. A three-speed manual transmission comes standard, while a three-speed automatic transmission is an option.
Frame and Current Pricing
The 1985 El Camino has a wheelbase of 117.1 inches with a ground clearance of 6.3 inches. The front and rear suspensions have an anti-roll bar with ventilated disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear. 1985 Chevrolet El Caminos range from around $4,000 up to $11,000 as of 2010, depending on the trim and the vehicle's condition.
References
Writer Bio
Steve Johnson is an avid and passionate writer with more than five years of experience. He's written for several industries, including health, dating and Internet marketing, as well as for various websites. He holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas.