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What year did El Camino have a 454 engine?


The Chevrolet El Camino, a unique blend of car and truck, has a storied history that appeals to both muscle car enthusiasts and utility vehicle fans. Among its many engine options, the 454 cubic inch V8 stands out as a powerhouse. In this article, we’ll explore the year the El Camino was equipped with this legendary engine and what made it so special.


The Introduction of the 454 Engine


The 454 engine, part of Chevrolet's big-block V8 family, was introduced in 1970. This engine was designed to deliver exceptional power and performance, making it a favorite among muscle car enthusiasts. It was during this same year that the El Camino SS (Super Sport) was offered with the 454 engine as an option.


1970: The Year of the 454 El Camino


In 1970, Chevrolet equipped the El Camino SS with the 454 engine, marking a significant milestone in the vehicle's history. This engine was available in two configurations:



  • LS5: This version produced 360 horsepower, offering a balance of power and drivability.

  • LS6: The LS6 was the high-performance variant, delivering an impressive 450 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful engines of its time.


The 1970 El Camino SS with the 454 engine became an icon of American muscle, combining the practicality of a truck with the raw power of a high-performance car.


Why the 454 Engine Stands Out


The 454 engine is celebrated for several reasons:



  • Raw Power: With up to 450 horsepower in the LS6 configuration, it was a beast on the road.

  • Torque: The engine delivered exceptional torque, making it ideal for both performance and utility applications.

  • Legacy: The 454 remains a symbol of the golden age of muscle cars, cherished by collectors and enthusiasts alike.


Conclusion


The 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS with the 454 engine is a testament to the innovation and performance of its era. Whether you’re a fan of muscle cars or simply appreciate automotive history, the 454-equipped El Camino holds a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts. If you’re lucky enough to come across one of these rare vehicles, you’re looking at a piece of American automotive heritage.


Frequently Asked Questions

What year was the most powerful El Camino?


1970
The legendary 454-cubic-inch V-8 arrived for 1970 in two states of tune: LS5, with 360 hp, and the holy-grail LS6, with 450. The LS5 was available in the El Camino for '71 and '72 as well, but after 1970 the LS6 was gone from the lineup.



How much horsepower does a 1972 El Camino SS 454 have?


As a result, the horsepower rating for the '72 El Camino's LS5 454 was 270 hp (with 390 lbs-ft of torque). Although an El Camino with Super Sport equipment could be ordered with any V8 engine in 1972, the 454 El Camino was available only in Super Sport trim mode that year.



What year did Chevy make the 454 engine?


1970
454ci:Chevrolet added the 454 in 1970, with the same bore but slightly more stroke than the 427 at 4 inches. An LS7 version—not the modern LS model—offered in the Corvette and as a dealer performance option is rated at 465 hp and 610 lb-ft.



What year did El Camino have 454?


Engine offerings for 1971 included the 250-6, small-block V8s of 307 and 350 cubic inches; and big block V8s of 402 and 454-cubic-inch displacements. Horsepower ratings of those engines for 1971 ranged from 145 for the six to 365 for the RPO LS5 454 – all in gross figures. The LS6 454 V8 was gone forever.



How much is a 1970 Chevelle SS 454 LS6 worth?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $82,233 for a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 in good condition with average spec. The highest selling price of a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS 454 at auction over the last three years was $660,000.



How much is a 1969 El Camino SS 396 worth?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $57,025 for a 1969 Chevrolet El Camino SS 396 in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1969 Chevrolet El Camino SS 396? The highest selling price of a 1969 Chevrolet El Camino SS 396 at auction over the last three years was $180,000.



What is a 1970 El Camino SS 454 worth?


Typically, you can expect to pay around $58,600 for a 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 in good condition with average spec. What is the highest selling price of a 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454? The highest selling price of a 1970 Chevrolet El Camino SS 454 at auction over the last three years was $275,000.



How many 1971 El Camino SS 454 were made?


Of the 8,773 SS454 El Caminos and Chevelles built in 1970, 4,298 featured the LS5, and 4,475 had the LS6 engines. In 1971, SS454s in both models featured the LS5 V-8, and 9,502 were built; 5,333 LS5-equipped SS454s came off the line in 1972.



What is the most sought after year of El Camino?


The 1970 El Camino SS454 LS6 is perhaps the most popular El Camino ever built. Producing 450 horsepower, it is one of the most desirable muscle trucks that brings big dollars at Mecum and Barrett-Jackson auctions.



What year is a 454 SS?


1990-1993
1990-1993 Chevrolet 454 SS: A Muscle Truck Worth Rediscovering. The GMC Syclone contemporary is a sweet path to smoky burnouts.


Kevin's Auto

Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.