Offered for sale is an exceptional 1971 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454,
combining the unmistakable styling of the third generation El
Camino with one of the most desirable big block performance
combinations of the era. Finished in its factory shade of Burnt
Orange over a black vinyl interior, this documented SS is powered
by a 454 cubic inch LS5 V8 paired with a four speed manual
transmission and a 12 bolt rear end with Positraction. Accompanied
by its build sheet and March 1971 dealer invoice, this El Camino
offers excellent documentation and an impressive combination of
muscle car performance and classic Chevrolet utility.
At the heart of this El Camino is a 454 cubic inch LS5 V8. The big
block is paired with a four speed manual transmission operated
through a Hurst shifter, delivering the engaging driving experience
expected from a true big block Chevrolet. Power is transferred to a
12 bolt rear end equipped with a Positraction limited slip
differential. A dual exhaust system completes the performance
oriented drivetrain and gives the 454 the unmistakable sound
associated with classic Chevrolet big block power.
The Burnt Orange exterior presents beautifully and was refinished
in its factory color during the mid 1990s. The aggressive
appearance is highlighted by a cowl induction hood with black
stripes and locking hood pins. SS badging, chrome bumpers and trim,
and the distinctive El Camino body lines complete a muscular yet
refined appearance that remains immediately recognizable more than
five decades after production.
The El Camino rides on 15 inch Chevrolet Sport wheels wrapped in
BFGoodrich Radial T/A tires. Power steering provides easier
maneuverability, while power assisted front disc brakes and rear
drums provide confident stopping power. This combination of classic
Chevrolet Sport wheels, raised white letter tires, and SS equipment
gives the car an authentic period appearance.
Inside, the cabin is finished in black and features a black vinyl
bench seat along with a color coordinated dashboard, door panels,
and carpeting. Equipment includes a Hurst shifter, AM radio, and
heater. The straightforward interior perfectly complements the
performance focused nature of this SS while retaining the familiar
styling and functionality of the 1971 El Camino.
An SS branded steering wheel frames a 120 mph speedometer, fuel
level gauge, and warning lamps. A column mounted MoonEyes
tachometer provides engine speed information, while aftermarket
gauges mounted beneath the dashboard monitor oil pressure, water
temperature, and voltage. The five digit odometer shows
approximately 80,000 miles.
Documentation is an important part of this El Camino. The
accompanying build sheet identifies the Z15 SS 454 group and
indicates that the vehicle was originally delivered to Griesbach
Chevrolet in Hortonville, Wisconsin. A March 1971 sales invoice
from Griesbach Chevrolet also accompanies the vehicle, along with
letters from previous owners, an owners manual, and additional
records and parts.
The Fisher body tag further documents the original configuration.
Style code 71 13680 identifies the vehicle as a 1971 El Camino,
while body number K 521288 indicates Kansas City assembly. Trim
code 705 identifies the factory black vinyl bench seat interior,
and paint code 62 62 confirms the original Burnt Orange exterior.
The 02B build date indicates production during the second week of
February 1971.
The 1971 El Camino SS represents one of the most memorable
combinations of muscle car performance and pickup versatility
produced during the golden era of American performance. With its
LS5 454 V8, four speed manual transmission, Positraction equipped
12 bolt rear end, power front disc brakes, power steering, and Z15
SS 454 documentation, this example possesses the equipment
enthusiasts look for in a classic big block El Camino.
Its factory Burnt Orange color combination further separates this
El Camino from the crowd. Paired with the black interior, black
hood stripes, Sport wheels, and aggressive cowl induction hood, the
result is a striking Chevrolet that looks every bit as serious as
its drivetrain suggests.
Whether being added to a collection, displayed at shows, taken to
local cruise nights, or simply enjoyed on the open road, this 1971
Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 delivers an outstanding combination of
performance, documentation, style, and character. The big block
454, four speed manual transmission, 12 bolt Positraction rear end,
factory Burnt Orange color, and accompanying build sheet make this
a highly appealing example of one of the most recognizable
Chevrolet performance vehicles of its era.
Do not miss the opportunity to own this impressive 1971 Chevrolet
El Camino SS 454. Combining documented SS equipment, big block
Chevrolet power, a four speed manual transmission, distinctive
Burnt Orange styling, and excellent supporting documentation, this
El Camino is ready for its next caretaker. For more information,
contact LRA Auto Museum and Sales at 215-781-3790 or email
[email protected].
