English
Lietuvių
Latviešu
Eesti
Polski
Русский
Українська
Deutsch
Nederlands
Čeština
Slovenčina
Svenska
Norsk
Dansk
Suomi
GMC Sprint: coupe-pickup based on the Chevrolet El Camino
GMC Sprint — 1971–1977 US-made coupe-pickup, the twin of the Chevrolet El Camino. We delve into its history, tech specs, and what to check when buying this classic ride.
Sprint in brief
The GMC Sprint was the dealer-exclusive version of the Chevrolet El Camino. It's a body that combines a coupe front with a saloon interior and an open cargo bed at the rear.
It differed from the El Camino with unique badges, wheel covers, and trim details. The Sprint is rarer on the used market than the El Camino, so parts availability is a key consideration.
Production timeline
The Sprint was produced from 1971–1977 on GM's A platform. In 1978, it was replaced by the smaller GMC Caballero, which was the twin of the El Camino.
During this period, the body shape, trim levels, and engine options changed, so cars from different years aren't identical.
Engines and transmissions
The Sprint typically came with V8 petrol engines, typical of American cars of the era. Specific power outputs and capacities varied by year and trim level.
The transmission was either automatic or manual, with rear-wheel drive. It's a straightforward, easy-to-service setup.
What to check when buying a Sprint
First and foremost, check the body condition: inspect for rust on the sills, wheel arches, floor, and cargo bed. Also, examine the frame and suspension.
Check if the car is original: engine and body numbers, trim details. Parts from the El Camino often fit, but GMC-specific trim pieces are harder to find.
Trim
The Sprint came with several trim packages, the names and contents of which varied by year.
Sprint
1971–1977Coupe pickup with GMC badging and trim.
- Open cargo bed
- Most often a V8 engine
- Often — a sportier trim package
Comparison
| Ankstyvieji (1971–1972) | Vidurinieji (1973–1975) | Vėlyvieji (1976–1977) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body style | Previous | Refreshed from 1973 | Refreshed from 1973 |
| Transmission | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive | Rear-wheel drive |
| Key feature | Rust | Rust | Rust |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€ |
Opt for examples with a sound body and original parts. The mechanics are simple, but corrosion is the main risk.
Pros
- Unusual coupe-pickup body style
- Simple and robust mechanics
- Parts compatibility with the El Camino
- Rarer than the Chevrolet version
Cons
- Risk of corrosion
- Shortage of GMC-specific parts
- High fuel consumption
Frequently asked questions
How does the GMC Sprint differ from the El Camino?
Technically almost identical, differing only in badges and some trim details.
When was it produced?
1971–1977
What replaced it?
In 1978, it was replaced by the GMC Caballero.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
