1960-1966 Chevy C10

The 1960-66 Chevrolet C10 is the truck that made pickups cool. Before this generation, trucks were strictly utilitarian. GM's designers gave this truck car-like styling — the wraparound windshield, sweeping fender lines, and available Custom Cab interior made it something you'd want to drive, not just need to drive.

The drop-center frame lowered the floor height for easier entry. The optional V8 engines made them quick. These trucks launched the custom truck scene that continues today. A well-built 1966 C10 was the truck every high schooler in America wanted.

These trucks developed the patina aesthetic. Original Apache Green, Cardinal Red, or Omaha Orange with faded paint and surface rust is the look that launched a thousand magazine covers. The chrome is relatively simple and rechromes well.

Watch for rust in the cab corners, floor pans, and bed floor — especially where the bed meets the cab. The inner fenders and firewall also rust from road spray.

The big rear window (1960-63) versus small rear window (1964-66) is a stylistic choice — big window trucks are generally more valuable.

LMC Truck has everything. Classic Industries has everything else. These trucks share engines and transmissions with millions of Chevrolet cars from the same era, so mechanical parts are everywhere.

The inline-6 engines are bulletproof but slow; the V8 engines make these trucks fun. Common upgrades include power steering, disc brakes, and modern fuel injection — all available as bolt-on kits. The truck community is massive and welcoming. A complete frame-off restoration is achievable in a home garage.