1970 GMC C10

Today’s example is a K1500 with 4-wheel drive, long wheelbase, and step sides. The truck has a 350-cu in. 5.4L Chevrolet small-block V8 mated to a 3-speed manual column shifter. Initially equipped with four drum brakes, the C10 adopted front discs beginning in 1971.

This C10 has been professionally repainted to a metallic gold/yellow, and it is in phenomenal condition. There are no major flaws in the paintwork to point out. There are two empty bolt holes in each of the front quarter panels which suggests that some kind of badge or label is missing. Black aftermarket wheels give the truck an aggressive, off-road look which complements the truck nicely. Chunky, FEDERAL brand, off-road tires further reinforce that look as well and appear to have plenty of tread still to go. The wooden bed is fine, but the car could improve dramatically if it was replaced. The chrome trim on the front of the car could benefit from some polishing, but the black front and rear bumpers show no damage whatsoever. Overall, the exterior of this C10 is extremely clean.

Unfortunately, the incredible quality on the outside of this C10 does not continue inside. The black leather bench seat is in average shape aside from the driver’s seat. The leather has split apart in several areas. The carpets are filthy, but they could improve immensely after a strong vacuuming and a deep, deep cleaning. The brake and clutch pedals have smoothed down over time, and the gauges up at the instrument cluster are dirty, but not unreadable. The steering wheel has cracked in several areas, likely under the harsh Memphis sun. The driver’s door panel has partially disintegrated, but the passenger’s is clean.

The underside of this pickup is clean. The body itself appears to be uncompromised, and the suspension components are all in order. The exhaust exhibits some minor discoloration but raises no red flags. As for the engine bay, things could be a little cleaner, but once again everything appears to be in order.

The truck was purchased new in Millington, Tennessee. After 50 years of existence, the odometer reads only 99,092 miles. Impressive. The owner purchased a new coat of paint for the car along the way as well as new tires and wheels. The owner believes the vehicle to be very rare, stating that he has never seen a second C10 out in the wild with 4-wheel drive, a long wheelbase, and step sides. We do not have the documents to verify this, but we do believe the truck has a very unique look.

This GMC C10 is a very cool truck. Great styling, and modern, aggressive wheel and tire selections breathe new life into the classic design. Furthermore, a repainted exterior further hides the truck’s actual age. Regardless, it must be acknowledged that the interior is a problem area, and it will likely take more than just some TLC to get the interior back to comfortable shape. This C10 would make an excellent first car for a new driver, or would be a great starting place for anyone looking to do a vintage truck build. Whatever your goal may be, this GMC is not to be overlooked.

The Market by Bonhams are pleased to offer this GMC C10 for online auction with no reserve with an estimate of $10,000-$17,000.