35k Original Miles: 1978 Chevrolet C10 Silverado
While some Pickups work hard to justify their existence, others lead a more sheltered life. This 1978 Chevrolet C10 Silverado falls into the second category and is guaranteed to turn heads due to its spotless presentation and custom pinstripes. Its V8 engine has received a few upgrades, but with 35,000 genuine miles on the clock, it should provide years of reliable service to a new owner. It is worth a close look if a classic Pickup has been on your Wish List.
Chevrolet’s Third Generation C/K truck range hit showroom floors for the 1973 model year, with the final examples rolling off the line in 1991. It marked a dramatic shift in the company’s design philosophy, with prototypes spending significant time in the wind tunnel to improve aerodynamic efficiency and fuel consumption. The first owner ordered this C10 Silverado in 1978, cloaking its interior in stunning Code 86 Midnight Black. The seller claims the paint is original, and its condition is impressive if that is accurate. It retains a depth of color and shine you could walk into, with no signs of major flaws or defects. The bed has a few scratches and scrapes, but that is an occupational hazard for any vehicle of this type. However, the absence of dings or dents suggests it hasn’t been abused. Somebody decided this classic needed to stand out in a crowd, adding tasteful pinstripes in Lime and Red. I believe these are tape stripes, so removing them would be straightforward if they don’t tick the boxes for the new owner. This beauty is rust-free, with the underside shots revealing some of the cleanest floors you will see on a vehicle of this type. The trim and glass are exceptional for their age, and the original Rally wheels look flawless. My assessment of this classic may be subjective, but the mountain of trophies it has accumulated suggests others share my view.
C10 buyers could choose from several engines to power their new purchase in 1978, and the VIN confirms this Silverado rolled off the line with the 305ci V8 under the hood. It would have sent 160hp and 235 ft/lbs of torque to the road via a three-speed automatic transmission when it was shiny and new, but there might be a few additional ponies at the new owner’s disposal. The aftermarket headers are visible in some images, but it is unclear whether further upgrades might be hiding below the surface. The seller claims the Pickup has a genuine 35,200 miles on its odometer without mentioning verifying evidence. However, potential buyers seeking a turnkey classic will welcome the news that it runs and drives perfectly, with the seller stating they wouldn’t hesitate to drive it anywhere.
This C10’s Red interior trim contrasts strikingly with the Black exterior, and its condition is equally impressive. The first thing I noticed was the carpet, which is free from the marks and stains that often plague older Pickups. The upholstered surfaces are immaculate, and the dash is crack-free. The gauge fascia hasn’t worn or faded, and the gauges feature clear lenses and crisp markings. It appears someone has swapped the factory radio for a modern CD unit, but I can’t spot any other changes. It might miss out on luxuries such as power windows and cruise control, but the buyer will welcome the ice-cold air conditioning.
The seller listed this 1978 Chevrolet C10 Silverado here on eBay in Ocoee, Florida. Bidding sits at $9,900, which is below the reserve. The action hasn’t been intense, but with the auction heading to its conclusion, it could heat up in the final few hours. Recent sales results suggest the current high bid must at least double before troubling the reserve. Do you think it will get there, or will this classic fall short?
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Comments
Still poking me in the gut with a stick, eh? It’s okay, I’ve more than made peace with this. I’d say no question original mileage, no wear anywhere to be found. It’s pretty much everything mine wasn’t, and if you are looking for one, you won’t find much better. It was a good old truck.
It’s listed on their website for $36,978.
Steve R
My estimate on the price was $30-35k .I sold the nearly identical black on red shorty for 25k ,2 years ago .It had a few more options but restored and not original miles .This is a “best of the best ” vehicle ,and should have no trouble finding a happy new owner ,even though trucks (and others ) are softening .
Black and red is always sharp. Another example of grandad’s truck now available for purchase. Lots of dress up and a small engine that helped it survive this long.
It is at 17 K now and I am sure it will go higher. Someone is going to want it and will step up for it.