When people talk about classic American trucks, the Chevrolet C10 always finds its way into the conversation—and for good reason. From its first run in 1960 all the way through the late ’80s, the C10 evolved into something more than just a work truck. It became a platform for builders, a staple at car shows, and a blank canvas for just about every kind of custom project you can imagine.
But the real appeal? It’s how each generation offered something different—clean lines, reliable powertrains, and suspension setups that made them surprisingly comfortable for their time. Whether you’re into factory-original survivors or slammed, fuel-injected restomods, the C10 lineup has a chapter worth remembering. Let’s get into some of the standouts.
1960 Chevrolet C10 Apache
The original C10 made its debut in 1960 as part of the Apache line. It introduced the drop-center frame and independent front suspension—big steps away from the straight-axle setups of the past. Power came from a 235ci inline-six or a 283ci small-block V8.
Inside, it was simple and utilitarian, with bench seats and metal dash panels. But that’s part of what makes it cool now. These early models ride a little rough compared to later years, but the styling—with the “eyebrow” hood and wraparound windshield—is hard to ignore today.
1963 Chevrolet C10 Short Bed
By 1963, Chevy had refined the suspension with coil springs front and rear on most models, giving the C10 a smoother ride than its Ford and Dodge rivals. The 230ci inline-six was standard, though plenty of buyers stepped up to the 327 V8.
Short bed fleetside models from this year have become favorites among builders. The body lines are clean, and the stance—especially when dropped—is just right. Original interiors were still all function, but modern restomods often add Dakota Digital gauges and leather-wrapped dashes.
1965 Chevrolet C10 Big Window
The big-window cab option gave the C10 a completely different profile. That wraparound rear glass isn’t just about looks—it improves visibility and light inside the cab. Under the hood, this year still featured the trusty 283ci or optional 327 V8.
A lot of these trucks end up with air ride these days, especially the short beds. Stock interiors were bare bones, but the metal dash and simple controls have their own kind of charm. You don’t need much when the truck speaks for itself.
1967 Chevrolet C10 Fleetside
The second-gen C10s launched in ’67 with a more refined body—less boxy, more fluid. Suspension got better too, with an upgraded trailing arm setup that still holds up today. A 250ci inline-six came standard, while the 283 and 327 V8s were popular options.
The interiors saw minor upgrades with padded dash tops and better seat materials. A lot of builders like to keep these trucks mostly stock outside but pack them with modern tech inside. Even stock, they had the kind of proportions that work from every angle.
1969 Chevrolet C10 CST/10
The CST/10 (Custom Sport Truck) trim brought more comfort to the C10 line—bucket seats, carpeting, and woodgrain trim showed Chevy wasn’t just thinking about work duty anymore. This year’s optional 396ci big-block gave it real muscle.
The coil spring rear and independent front suspension gave it a composed ride, even when lowered. Today, builders love the factory tach clusters and tilt columns. It’s a truck that rides well, looks right, and sounds mean when done up properly.
1971 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne
1971 was the first year for the Cheyenne trim, which took the CST/10’s concept further. It included more trim, upgraded upholstery, and insulation. Power disc brakes up front became standard, a major improvement in real-world driving.
Most Cheyennes came with a 350 V8, but you could option up to the 402 big-block. A lot of these trucks still wear their woodgrain tailgate panels and chrome trim, which makes them stand out at any meet. They’re perfect candidates for frame-off builds or patina cruisers.
1972 Chevrolet C10 Super Cheyenne
The 1972 C10 wrapped up the second generation with the best of everything. The Super Cheyenne was the top trim, with air conditioning, full trim packages, and plush interiors by truck standards. Under the hood, you had the same solid options: 350 or 402.
Suspension tuning was better, with a more dialed-in feel thanks to minor refinements. This was one of the most balanced trucks GM put out—usable bed space, car-like comfort, and solid performance. It’s no wonder they hold their value so well today.
1973 Chevrolet C10 Square Body
The square-body generation started in ’73 with sharp edges, slab sides, and a wider stance. Independent front suspension and coil rear springs stayed, though tuning varied by trim. These trucks feel heavier than earlier models, but they’re easier to upgrade.
Interiors were more civilized—soft-touch materials, better seat designs, and even tilt wheels and cruise control on higher trims. The 350 small-block was the go-to, but the 454 was also on the menu. These trucks became workhorses and are now climbing in value fast.
1980 Chevrolet C10 Custom Deluxe
By 1980, emissions had choked down horsepower, but the C10 still had presence. The 305 and 350 were common, and the trucks had a laid-back driving feel. Styling updates included a new grille and square headlamps, which kept things fresh.
Most builders ditch the smog equipment and tune these up with mild cams, headers, and carb upgrades. The interiors were spartan, especially on Custom Deluxe models, but the bones are solid. These make great budget builds with the right vision.
1987 Chevrolet R10 Silverado
In 1987, Chevy dropped the C10 name in favor of “R10” for 2 wheel drive models (V10 for 4wd). This was the final year for the square-body trucks—and the first to get throttle-body fuel injection (TBI). It’s a small change that made a big difference in drivability.
The Silverado trim added power windows, locks, and improved cloth seating. Suspension stayed about the same, but TBI engines ran cleaner and started easier in any weather. A lot of these trucks were tucked away in barns or garages, which makes them smart pickups for a resto-mod today.
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