Released in 1968, the new third-generation Chevrolet El Camino remained based on the Chevelle platform like the previous generation and for the first time in its history, the El Camino was available as a standalone Super Sport model, an option that many customers were eager to take advantage of. 1969 saw minor changes in bodywork and trim and while the Super Sport option was still available it was no longer a separate model and was only available as an option package on the Custom V8 El Camino under the RPO-code Z25. As a result, 1969 and later El Camino Super Sports can therefore only be positively identified with either an original Broadcast Sheet, the presence of one of two special order paint codes only available on Super Sports, or, as numbers-matching vehicles with their original big block 396 powerplants. This numbers-matching 1969 Chevrolet El Camino SS396 has been in the possession of the the same owner for the last forty years and is powered by its original JK-code 396ci V8 engine that was rebuilt less than 1,000 miles ago and bored out to 402 cubic inches. According to its original block stamping, the engine was built November 11th, 1968 at GM�s Tonawanda engine plant as an L35 325hp 396 engine destined for a TH400 automatic transmission and not only does it match the VIN of the El Camino, the build date coincides with the early December build date of the car itself. Under the hood this El Camino features power brakes with front discs, power steering, and factory optional A/C, as well as a number of upgrades, including an Edelbrock Performer RPM intake, Holley 4-barrel carburetor, headers, and a Mallory Comp 9000 magnetic breakerless distributor with a Mallory Hyfire IV ignition and Promaster coil. Originally painted Frost Lime, the car has been repainted a lighter shade of green shows well with a few blemishes here and there that don�t detract from the overall appearance of the car and it features most of its original SS396 badging as well with the exception of the tailgate emblem, which has been shaved. Inside, the original black fabric interior has been redone in black vinyl and features its original SS396 badges as well as a Custom Autosound stereo with iPod hookup. This Super Sport rides on a set of staggered Foose �Nitrous� chrome wheel wrapped in Nexen N7000 low-profile tires with 18�s in the front and 20�s out back. As a Fremont-built El Camino that has resided here in California with the same owner since 1978 and has been accident-free and garage-kept for much of that time as its dry exterior confirms, it is in excellent shape both cosmetically and mechanically. Further, as a matching-numbers SS396, the pedigree of El Camino is above reproach and with only 9,717 SS396�s built that year, this 1969 El Camino Super Sport is not only desirable as a collectable muscle car, it�s also a blast to drive.
