Think bakkie, and Hilux and Ranger might first pop into your head. But in terms of classic American bakkies, this Chevrolet C10 Custom is right up there with the best.
Words and photos: Wilhelm Lutjeharms
We all know that the bakkie (pick-up) is a much loved vehicle type in South Africa. Just look at the monthly and annual sales figures... Of course, not all of those buyers have a choice in the type of vehicle that they need to buy, but even so, we have such a variety on offer in South Africa.
Then there is also the huge aftermarket industry available to bakkie owners. Plus, there is the (growing) classic bakkie niche, and that is where this 1975 Chevrolet C10 Custom comes into the equation – currently for sale at Moto Village in Cape Town.
The details
If there is a nation that knows how to build big bakkies, it is America. From standard 4x2s, to 4x4s and then even double wheelers (four in total) on the rear axle! No wonder the Americans call them trucks. American trucks are few and far between in South Africa as they need to, or would have needed to, be specially imported. This makes them quite a rare sight on our roads, especially this specific model.
It might have a rather compact stance, but it is still a large bakkie, very wide and quite tall. The square design is typical of the era, as are the angular lights, grille and large chromed front bumper. The relatively small wheels with the fat BF Goodrich tyres (33x12.5 R15) give the bakkie a further fun factor look while at the rear the loading bay is covered with a sturdy lid, allowing you to store valuables safely. It is also fitted with disc brakes at the front and rear.
As the engine (more on that soon) has been rebuilt and the panels painted, this C10 presents itself very well. That is also the case when you climb, or step up, into the cabin. Apart from new upholstery, the updated dashboard has also been fitted with a new console, gauges and some minor modern features. New glass has also been fitted right around.
There is still a very strong classic element to the cabin though, in the shape of the two-spoke steering wheel and column-mounted gearlever. Apart from that, there is little in the cabin to distract you from the task of driving. It is spacious and if there was another seatbelt, three adults would fit on the front bench. Plus, with a modern air conditioning system, the cabin is cooled down in what felt like seconds.
But, back to the engine. This bakkie is fitted with none other than the largest engine offered in the Chevrolet C/K truck range of this era, a 7.4-litre V8 (a $340 option at the time)! Said to develop 170 kW and 522 Nm, it still delivers ample performance, even in a relatively heavy bakkie – especially considering its age. The engine is mated to a three-speed automatic gearbox.
On the road
First making my way through Tokai, it is immediately evident how the car draws attention from selective people. It is not something you see often and does put a smile on a number of faces.
I head up Ou Kaapse Weg and the level of performance is quickly noticeable as small bursts of power is available when you push the throttle. At 2 000 to 2 500 rpm there is already a torque-rich urgency from the engine and then the engine revs to around 3 000 rpm. That number sounds low, but this Chevy picks up speed significantly during that 1 000 rpm bracket. It really is quite fun to drive.
The upgraded cabin feels quite modern while the large steering wheel is welcome, making it easy to point the C10 where you want it to go, especially at slower speeds.
Apart from the respectable acceleration, there is also the burbling exhaust note that reminds you of the massive engine up front. On tight turns or during pull aways, a slightly too eager throttle input will have the tyres chirping, either to the joy or annoyance of fellow road users.
Although there is some play in the steering wheel, it is not different to the feeling of most cars from this era. The steering wheel is positioned and close to you, which I prefer, but if you are big in size, you might feel a little uncomfortable with the steering wheel so close to you.
Priced at just under R449 000, one has to remember that you will not be able to build this bakkie for this price. Even when I poked underneath the bakkie looking at the running gear and chassis, it is evident that it is in a good condition and has been well maintained. In terms of classic American bakkie charm, this is one of the best.
Specifications:
1975 Chevrolet C10 Custom
Engine: 7.4-litre V8, petrol
Power: 170 kW
Torque: 550 Nm
Transmission: 3-speed automatic, RWD
Weight: 1 655 kg
0-100 km/h: N/A
Top speed: N/A