The Chevrolet C10 has become a staple of vintage truck collecting, but not all C10s were created—or preserved—equally. While many lived hard lives on farms and job sites, a few rare variants managed to survive the decades with their unique configurations intact. These are the ones collectors whisper about, the low-production trims and oddball combos you rarely see at local shows. From short-bed customs to big-block oddities, these are the some rarest C10s still on the road today.
1967 C10 Small-Window Cab
Most ’67 C10s came with the new large rear window, but a small batch kept the earlier small-window cab from ’66. It was mostly for fleets and base models. These trucks are instantly recognizable and offer a subtle cue that sets them apart from the rest. With the ’67-only parking brake and no side marker lights, it’s a strange mix of old and new. Fewer than 1 in 10 from this year retained the small window, making survivors hard to find.
1971 C10 Highlander Package
The Highlander trim was a promotional option for ’71 and ’72, featuring special plaid seat inserts, color-matched interior trim, and bright exterior accents. While it was a dealer-installed package, original Highlanders are scarce because most buyers didn’t opt for the flashier interior. It was only available for a limited window and mostly on Custom Deluxe trims. Finding one today with its original upholstery intact is a tall order, especially in good condition.
1972 C10 Super Cheyenne Short Bed
While Super Cheyennes weren’t exactly rare, pairing the highest trim level with a short bed and big-block power was. Most were long beds aimed at buyers who wanted luxury and utility. But the sportier configuration was quietly offered and rarely selected. Add in the woodgrain accents, tilt column, and factory tach, and you’ve got a unicorn. Good luck finding one that hasn’t been heavily modified.
1970 C10 CST with 402 V8
The 402 wasn’t badged as such—it was just labeled “400” on the fender. But under the hood, it was a full-fat big-block with torque to spare. Pair that with the CST (Custom Sport Truck) trim and a short bed, and you’ve got a rare combo. Most were work trucks or farm haulers, so few survived without heavy wear. The big-block heat made them favorites for street builds later on.
1960 C10 with NAPCO 4×4 Conversion
In 1960, Chevy hadn’t yet offered factory 4×4, so they relied on NAPCO conversions for off-road buyers. These bolt-on kits used Spicer components and fit pre-1960 frames. A handful of early C10s got the treatment before the factory setup arrived. These are prized for their mechanical quirkiness and retro off-road charm. With exposed driveline parts and mechanical hubs, they’re relics from a very different era.
1969 C10 Longhorn
The Longhorn wasn’t just a long bed—it was longer than long. Chevy added six inches to the bed, creating an 8.5-foot monster. It was aimed at camper haulers and rarely bought as a standard truck. Only available on ¾-ton models initially, some slipped onto C10 chassis by special order. The stretched wheelbase changed the look and made them great highway cruisers, but terrible for tight turns.
1971 C10 Stepside with 4-Speed Manual
Most Stepsides in ’71 were base spec trucks, aimed at utility buyers. But a few came with 4-speed manuals, factory gauges, and even the optional tach. The combination of a sporty short bed and a row-your-own gearbox makes them a rare breed today. Add in original paint and steel wheels, and it’s the kind of truck that grabs attention at vintage events without even trying.
1964 C10 Fleetside with Big Back Window
The big rear window was a factory option for 1964, and only a fraction of buyers paid extra for it. Most trucks came with the smaller, standard glass. The Fleetside long bed with big window and deluxe trim is a surprisingly rare combination, especially when paired with the 292 inline-six. It offered visibility, a smoother look, and better airflow inside the cab—features buyers didn’t prioritize back then.
Like Fast Lane Only’s content? Be sure to follow us.
Here’s more from us:
Leave a Reply