The 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck is a rare sight in the modern classic market. While most C10s of this era were utilized as standard pickups, the panel truck variant offered a massive, enclosed cargo area for specialized commercial use. This specific example has been transformed into a highly capable restomod, blending sixties aesthetics with early 2000s reliability. Finished in a nostalgic Maroon and Cream two-tone, the truck maintains its working-class heritage while hiding a potent V-8 surprise under the hood. It serves as a physical bridge between the heavy-duty past and the performance-oriented present. This build is ideal for a collector who values the unique silhouette of a vintage delivery vehicle with modern drivability.
Modern LS Power Meets Classic Commercial Design
At the center of this 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck is a Gen 3 5.3L LS V-8 engine. Sourced from a 2004 Silverado, this powerplant provides a significant leap in horsepower over the original factory straight-six. The builder utilized a drive-by-cable setup to maintain a direct throttle feel for the driver. To manage heat, a three-core aluminum radiator was installed alongside a high-performance electric fan. A custom exhaust system ensures the V-8 breathes efficiently while producing a refined, muscular tone. This mechanical heart ensures that the truck can keep pace with modern highway traffic without the overheating issues common in older builds. It is a robust setup designed for those who actually intend to put miles on their classics.
Chassis Upgrades and Road Manners
The driving experience in this 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck has been significantly sharpened through a series of chassis updates. Upgraded front power disc brakes replace the aging drum units to provide more consistent and reliable stopping force. The truck features a 3.73 gear ratio in the rear end, striking an excellent balance between off-the-line torque and comfortable cruising. A 4L60E four-speed automatic transmission manages the power, operated via a classic column shifter for an authentic feel. For added convenience, a tilt steering column was integrated to accommodate various driver heights and preferences. These technical improvements transform a once-cumbersome commercial vehicle into a surprisingly nimble and responsive street cruiser. It handles with a level of confidence that the original 1964 engineers could only imagine.
Interior Refinement and Custom Instrumentation
Opening the heavy doors of this 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck reveals a cabin that is both simple and sophisticated. The bench seat is upholstered in a clean mix of cloth and vinyl, providing a comfortable perch for long-distance journeys. Safety was addressed through the installation of lap belts, maintaining a period-correct appearance while offering basic occupant protection. The most striking update in the cockpit is the set of Dakota Digital VHX gauges mounted in the factory-style dashboard. These units offer precision digital readouts within an analog-style interface, tracking all vital engine statistics. Cream interior panels mirror the exterior accents, creating a cohesive design language throughout the entire vehicle. It is a space that feels fresh yet entirely respectful of its mid-century origins.
Performance Specifications and V-8 Output
The 5.3-liter LS V-8 engine is a legendary performer known for its reliability and easy maintenance. In this 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck, the engine delivers plenty of torque for the large panel body. The 4L60E automatic transmission ensures smooth gear changes, making the truck effortless to drive in heavy urban congestion. Because of the LS architecture, the truck benefits from modern fuel management and a much lighter engine weight compared to older small-block designs. The three-core aluminum radiator provides a massive cooling capacity for hot summer car shows. Every part of the drivetrain was selected to ensure this C10 remains a turn-key cruiser for the next owner. This combination of parts makes it one of the most mechanically sound panel trucks currently available.
Summary of the Custom Panel Restomod
This 1964 Chevrolet C10 Panel Truck is a standout offering for the Indy 2026 auction block. Its unique body style alone makes it a conversation piece, but the LS swap elevates it to a higher tier of collectibility. The Maroon and Cream paint scheme provides a sophisticated look that fits perfectly at any vintage automotive gathering. With its upgraded brakes and digital gauges, the truck is ready for immediate road use or promotional duties. It represents the best of the restomod movement, where historical charm is preserved through modern engineering. Potential buyers will find it a compelling mix of rarity and performance that is hard to ignore. This Chevy is a testament to the enduring appeal of the C10 series in all its varied forms.
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Source: mecum.com
