Few and far between are the pre-1970 El Caminos. What I mean is that you just don’t see them that much anymore. The year was 1957, and the first car/truck combo was sold in the United States.

Of course I’m speaking of the Ranchero, Ford’s car and truck hybrid; not the El Camino. Chevrolet was envious of the Ranchero’s success and decided that they should try their hands in the car/truck world as well.

A couple of years after 1957, a legend with a cult following was born. In 1959, Chevrolet released their own version of the car/truck combination and had their own amount of success. In 1987, this handy little ride met its maker as it was permanently killed off.

The car in question is up for sale at the Mecum Auto auction in Kissimmee this January. The exquisite two tone flamed out paint and slanted front end of this 1966 El Camino bring back memories of days gone by. If you look closely at the paint, you’ll see barbed wire detailing around the backside of the truck bed that adds to the appeal.

Photo Credit: Mecum

She is well done, and not a detail was missed. The big block Chevy 454 is a ground pounder, with just enough chrome to be classy. Topping the big motor off is a set of three two barrel carburetors to ensure that this baby breathes in the right amount of fuel and air.

Photo Credit: Mecum

Who said that you couldn’t have a banging stereo inside an old El Camino? The 8k worth of musical equipment in the cab begs to differ, and allows the driver and everyone else outside, to hear the tunes playing on the inside.

The body work has been extensive and has seen a few major design overhauls. First, the hood is a custom fiberglass unit to help make room for all that extra motor and the larger intake setup. Second, the rear end is totally customized. The rear bumper has been removed and the custom exhaust system has been run through it.

Photo Credit: Mecum

Finally, finishing off this sedan with a truck bed is a diamond plate bed floor for added strength and looks, and a shiny set of mag wheels. If you feel like being seen from miles away, the undercarriage lighting is sure to get some attention. Why? Who knows, because it would be the first thing to go if I bought it. But to each their own, right?

Photo Credit: Mecum

How much will this 1966 Chevrolet El Camino bring in at auction? Only time will tell. Of course, it depends on the crowd. But, similar ’66 elkies have gone on eBay recently for just over 15k, with a much lesser engine package. We’ll have to tune in to the auction to find out.