The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS embodies the spirit of a bygone era, blending the practicality of a pickup truck with the exhilarating performance of a muscle car. This unique vehicle, a true testament to American automotive ingenuity, captivated enthusiasts with its distinctive design and powerful engine options.
The El Camino SS’s legacy extends beyond its impressive performance, leaving an indelible mark on the automotive landscape and capturing the hearts of car lovers worldwide.
The “SS” designation, synonymous with Chevrolet’s performance lineage, added a layer of prestige and exclusivity to the El Camino. This badge signified a commitment to power and handling, setting the 1987 El Camino SS apart from its standard counterparts.
The El Camino’s design, a harmonious fusion of car and truck elements, created a distinctive profile that defied categorization. Its sleek, aerodynamic body lines hinted at its sporty nature, while its functional cargo bed offered practicality and versatility.
Overview: 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS stands as a unique and iconic vehicle, seamlessly blending the practicality of a pickup truck with the performance and style of a muscle car. Its distinctive features and its place in automotive history make it a highly sought-after classic.
The “SS” designation, synonymous with Chevrolet’s performance vehicles, signifies its enhanced power and sporty nature.
Design
The El Camino’s design was a bold statement, merging the ruggedness of a pickup truck with the sleekness of a coupe. Its distinctive profile, characterized by a long hood and a sloping roofline, gave it a distinctive appeal. The El Camino SS featured a number of styling cues that distinguished it from its standard counterparts, including a unique grille, a rear spoiler, and special badging.
This blend of car and truck elements made the El Camino SS a versatile vehicle that could handle a variety of tasks, from hauling cargo to cruising the open road.
Engine and Performance
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS was powered by a robust engine designed to deliver exhilarating performance. This muscle car offered a choice of two engine options, each with its unique characteristics and capabilities.
Engine Options and Specifications
The 1987 El Camino SS was available with two engine options:
- 5.0L (305 cu in) V8:This engine, a standard offering, produced 155 horsepower and 245 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with a three-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth acceleration and comfortable cruising.
- 5.7L (350 cu in) V8:This optional engine, known for its power and performance, generated 200 horsepower and 285 lb-ft of torque. It was available with a four-speed automatic transmission or a five-speed manual transmission, allowing drivers to choose their preferred driving style.
Performance Comparison with Other Muscle Cars
The 1987 El Camino SS’s performance was comparable to other muscle cars of the era, including the Ford Mustang GT and the Chevrolet Camaro IROC-Z. While it may not have been the fastest or most powerful car on the market, it offered a balanced combination of performance and practicality.
Handling and Driving Experience
The El Camino SS was known for its comfortable and predictable handling. The car’s suspension provided a smooth ride, even on rough roads, while the steering was responsive and precise. The driving experience was enjoyable, with the car offering a balance of power and control.
Interior and Features
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS offered a comfortable and practical interior designed to appeal to both performance enthusiasts and those seeking a versatile vehicle. While sharing its basic interior with the Chevrolet Malibu, the El Camino SS featured unique styling cues and options that enhanced its sporty character.
Interior Design and Materials
The El Camino SS’s interior featured a driver-oriented cockpit with comfortable bucket seats and a center console that housed the shifter and various controls. The instrument panel, designed with a focus on clarity and functionality, displayed vital information in an easy-to-read format.
While the overall interior design was functional, it wasn’t as luxurious as some of its competitors. The use of vinyl upholstery and hard plastics, typical of the era, was common throughout the cabin. However, the El Camino SS offered options like cloth upholstery and woodgrain accents to enhance the interior’s appeal.
Comfort and Practicality
The El Camino SS’s interior provided a comfortable ride for both the driver and passenger. The bucket seats offered good support and were designed for long drives. The spacious cab provided ample headroom and legroom, making it comfortable for taller drivers and passengers.
The El Camino SS’s dual-purpose nature was evident in its cargo bed, which offered a practical solution for hauling goods or equipment. The bed was lined with a durable material, making it suitable for transporting various items. The El Camino SS’s versatility made it a popular choice for those who needed a vehicle that could handle both daily commutes and weekend adventures.
Standard and Optional Equipment
The 1987 El Camino SS came equipped with a range of standard features, including power steering, power brakes, air conditioning, and an AM/FM radio. The El Camino SS also offered several optional features, including a sunroof, cruise control, a rear window defroster, and a tilt steering wheel.
These options allowed buyers to personalize their El Camino SS to their specific needs and preferences.
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS, with its powerful V8 engine and sporty styling, was a popular choice for performance enthusiasts. While the El Camino was designed for speed and handling, Chevrolet also offered a robust line of tow trucks, like the 1980 Chevrolet Tow Truck , which was built for strength and reliability.
Though vastly different in purpose, both the El Camino SS and the 1980 Chevrolet Tow Truck showcased Chevrolet’s commitment to building vehicles that met diverse needs and desires.
Production and Sales
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS, a blend of muscle car and practicality, was produced during a time of significant changes in the automotive industry. While the El Camino’s popularity had waned in the early 1980s, the SS model was a last hurrah for this unique vehicle.
Production Numbers
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS was produced in limited numbers, reflecting the declining demand for the El Camino body style.
- The exact production figures for the 1987 El Camino SS are not readily available.
- However, it is estimated that only a few thousand units were manufactured.
This limited production run, coupled with the car’s performance and unique styling, has made the 1987 El Camino SS a sought-after collectible today.
Sales Figures
The sales figures for the 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS are difficult to ascertain with absolute certainty.
- The El Camino SS was not a major sales success for Chevrolet.
- The decline in popularity of the El Camino body style and the rise of more fuel-efficient vehicles contributed to its low sales figures.
- While the El Camino SS was appreciated by enthusiasts, its sales figures were overshadowed by other Chevrolet models.
Factors Influencing Popularity
Despite the limited production and sales, the 1987 El Camino SS held a certain appeal to automotive enthusiasts.
- The combination of a powerful V8 engine and a practical pickup truck bed was a unique selling proposition.
- The El Camino SS’s performance capabilities, thanks to its powerful engine and sporty suspension, appealed to those seeking a blend of practicality and performance.
- The El Camino SS’s unique styling, with its distinctive grille and rear end, contributed to its desirability.
Anecdotes and Stories
While the 1987 El Camino SS wasn’t a commercial success, it holds a special place in the hearts of some enthusiasts.
- Some stories suggest that the El Camino SS was often seen as a “sleeper” car, capable of surprising unsuspecting drivers with its performance.
- The El Camino SS’s practicality and performance made it a popular choice for enthusiasts who needed a vehicle for both work and play.
Legacy and Impact
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS, despite its limited production run, left an indelible mark on the automotive landscape, cementing its place in Chevrolet history and becoming a cultural icon. Its unique blend of practicality and performance resonated with a specific segment of enthusiasts, contributing to its enduring popularity and legacy.
Cultural Significance
The El Camino SS’s unique blend of practicality and performance made it a popular choice for both everyday driving and weekend adventures. Its muscular design and powerful engine made it a standout vehicle, capturing the attention of car enthusiasts and appearing in various forms of popular culture.
- Movies:The El Camino SS has appeared in several movies, including the 1987 action film “Predator,” where it is driven by the character Dutch (played by Arnold Schwarzenegger). This appearance solidified the El Camino SS’s image as a tough and capable vehicle, further enhancing its cultural appeal.
- Television:The El Camino SS has also made appearances on television, notably in the popular 1980s series “Knight Rider.” This exposure further solidified the El Camino SS’s status as a stylish and iconic vehicle, attracting the attention of a wider audience.
- Music:The El Camino SS has been featured in several music videos, further enhancing its cultural significance. Its distinctive design and powerful engine made it a perfect choice for music videos that emphasized speed, power, and rebellion.
Impact on Automotive Design, 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
The El Camino SS’s influence on automotive design can be seen in the subsequent generations of pickup trucks and coupes. Its distinctive blend of practicality and performance inspired other manufacturers to create similar vehicles, blurring the lines between traditional car and truck segments.
- Sport Utility Vehicles (SUVs):The El Camino SS’s success paved the way for the rise of SUVs, which offered a similar combination of practicality and performance. SUVs, like the El Camino SS, were designed to handle both everyday driving and off-road adventures, catering to a growing demand for versatile vehicles.
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS was a muscle car that offered the practicality of a pickup truck with the performance of a sports car. While it may not be as widely sought after as some of its predecessors, its unique blend of style and utility still makes it a desirable classic.
If you’re looking for a more traditional pickup truck, you might consider the 1972 Chevrolet 1500 , a rugged workhorse with a classic design. However, for those who appreciate the rare combination of performance and practicality, the 1987 El Camino SS remains a compelling choice.
- Crossovers:The El Camino SS’s influence can also be seen in the development of crossovers, which combine the car-like handling of a sedan with the practicality of a wagon or SUV. Crossovers, like the El Camino SS, are designed to appeal to a wide range of drivers, offering a balance of performance, practicality, and style.
Collector’s Value
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS, while not as sought-after as some of its earlier counterparts, has steadily gained traction in the collector car market. Its distinctive design, performance capabilities, and relatively limited production run contribute to its appeal.
The current market value of a 1987 El Camino SS is influenced by several factors, including its condition, mileage, and available options. A well-preserved, low-mileage example with desirable features can command a premium price, while those with significant wear and tear or modifications may be worth less.
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS was a powerful muscle car that combined the practicality of a pickup truck with the performance of a sports car. While the El Camino SS was a popular choice for those seeking a unique blend of utility and speed, Chevrolet also offered a more traditional truck option in the form of the 1992 Chevrolet K-1500.
The K-1500 provided ample hauling capacity and towing power, making it a favorite among those who needed a workhorse rather than a performance machine. Both vehicles represent the diverse range of Chevrolet offerings during the 1980s and 1990s, catering to a variety of needs and preferences.
Factors Affecting Value
Several key factors contribute to the value of a collectible 1987 El Camino SS. These factors are crucial in determining the car’s desirability and ultimately its market price.
- Condition:A pristine, original condition El Camino SS with minimal wear and tear will fetch the highest price. Conversely, cars with significant rust, damage, or modifications will be valued less.
- Mileage:Low mileage is highly desirable in any collector car, and the El Camino SS is no exception. A car with under 50,000 miles is likely to command a premium over one with higher mileage.
- Options:Certain options, such as the optional T-tops, air conditioning, and power steering, can increase the value of a 1987 El Camino SS. These features were not standard on all models, making them more desirable to collectors.
- Rarity:The 1987 El Camino SS was produced in relatively limited numbers, making it less common than other models. This rarity can contribute to its value, especially for examples in exceptional condition.
Future Potential
The 1987 El Camino SS is expected to continue appreciating in value, especially as its production run becomes more distant. Its distinctive design, performance capabilities, and limited production make it a desirable collector’s car. The growing popularity of classic American muscle cars further supports the potential for future appreciation.
The El Camino SS’s future value will likely be influenced by the overall health of the collector car market, economic conditions, and the availability of well-preserved examples. As time passes, the El Camino SS is expected to become increasingly sought-after by enthusiasts, leading to potential price increases.
Restoration and Maintenance
Restoring and maintaining a 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS requires dedication and a good understanding of the car’s unique features and potential issues. While it’s a relatively simple car to work on, certain aspects can be challenging. This section explores common restoration challenges, the availability of parts, and valuable tips for enthusiasts.
Common Restoration Challenges
Restoring a 1987 El Camino SS presents several common challenges that enthusiasts should be aware of:
- Finding a Solid Foundation:Locating a rust-free El Camino SS is crucial. The body, particularly the rocker panels and floor pans, are prone to rust, especially in areas with harsh weather conditions.
- Engine and Transmission:The 5.0L V8 engine and 4-speed automatic transmission are generally reliable but can develop issues with age. Finding replacement parts for these components can be challenging, especially for specific performance upgrades.
- Interior Components:Finding original or NOS (New Old Stock) interior parts, such as seats, door panels, and dash components, can be difficult and expensive.
- Suspension and Brakes:While the suspension and braking systems are relatively straightforward, finding replacement parts for the original components can be challenging, especially for high-performance models.
Parts and Resources
The good news is that a significant network of resources exists for maintaining and restoring a 1987 El Camino SS. These resources include:
- Online Marketplaces:Websites like eBay, Craigslist, and specialized automotive forums offer a wide range of parts, from common consumables to rare and hard-to-find components.
- Specialty Parts Suppliers:Companies like Classic Industries, YearOne, and Eckler’s offer a comprehensive selection of El Camino parts, including body panels, interior components, and performance upgrades.
- Local Auto Parts Stores:While local auto parts stores may not have all the specific El Camino parts, they can be a good source for common consumables like fluids, filters, and basic maintenance items.
- Restoration Shops:Specialized restoration shops can provide expert advice, restoration services, and access to a wider network of parts suppliers.
Tips for Restoration and Maintenance
Here are some valuable tips for enthusiasts looking to restore or maintain their 1987 El Camino SS:
- Thorough Inspection:Before embarking on a restoration, conduct a thorough inspection of the car, focusing on the body, engine, transmission, interior, and suspension.
- Rust Prevention:Prioritize rust prevention. Address any rust issues promptly, and consider using rust inhibitors and undercoating to protect the car’s undercarriage.
- Engine Maintenance:Perform regular engine maintenance, including oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks.
- Transmission Service:Follow the recommended transmission service intervals to ensure smooth operation and longevity.
- Suspension and Brakes:Regularly inspect the suspension and brake components, replacing worn-out parts as needed.
- Documentation:Maintain detailed records of all repairs, maintenance, and parts used. This documentation will be invaluable during future restoration or maintenance efforts.
- Join a Community:Connect with other El Camino enthusiasts through online forums or local car clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge can be invaluable during a restoration or maintenance project.
Visual Representation
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS, a blend of muscle car and practicality, boasts a distinctive design that captured the essence of the era. Its visual appeal lies in the harmonious combination of sleek lines, aggressive styling cues, and a powerful presence.
Visual Representation of the 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS
The visual representation of the 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS can be best understood by examining its different angles:
| Front | Side | Back | Interior |
|---|---|---|---|
| The front of the El Camino SS features a bold, imposing grille with horizontal chrome bars and the Chevrolet emblem prominently displayed. The headlights are rectangular and sit above the grille, while the bumper houses integrated fog lights. The hood is sculpted with a pronounced bulge, adding to the car’s muscular appearance. | From the side, the El Camino SS exhibits a sleek, aerodynamic profile. The long, sloping roofline flows smoothly into the bed, creating a distinctive silhouette. The side windows are large and provide excellent visibility, while the body lines are sharp and defined. The SS badges on the front fenders and the blacked-out trim on the window surrounds accentuate the car’s sporty nature. | The rear of the El Camino SS is characterized by its integrated bed, which features a large, wraparound taillight assembly. The rear bumper is chrome-plated and houses a dual exhaust system. The El Camino SS badge is prominently displayed on the tailgate, while the Chevrolet emblem is placed above the license plate. The rear window is large and provides a clear view of the cargo area. | The interior of the El Camino SS reflects the car’s sporty personality. The seats are upholstered in comfortable cloth or optional leather, with a sporty design and bolsters for added support. The dashboard is driver-oriented and features a variety of gauges, including a tachometer, speedometer, and fuel gauge. The steering wheel is wrapped in leather and offers a comfortable grip. The center console houses the radio, climate controls, and other essential controls. |
Closure
The 1987 Chevrolet El Camino SS remains a captivating example of American automotive innovation, a vehicle that successfully bridged the gap between practicality and performance. Its unique blend of features, coupled with its undeniable charisma, has cemented its place in automotive history.
For enthusiasts seeking a piece of automotive history, the El Camino SS offers a compelling combination of performance, style, and practicality, making it a highly sought-after collectible.