Why the El Camino Succeeded Where the SSR Couldn't

The Chevy El Camino is one of the most iconic cars of all time, a car-based utility vehicle that sold well for years. Let's dig into the history of the El Camino to discover why the SSR couldn't replicate its success.

[@rickss69]

The El Camino could actually be used to haul something.

[@fightingwolf18]

I love the SSR for it's weirdness alone, and I appreciate they added a nice V8, but I can easily see its issues. One, the top. I think it's neat, but would've worked better as a solid roof or removable hardtop. Two, that bed. It's a decent size, but the high side and narrow dimensions likely make it a pain in the ass for daily use. I still want it.

[@Rafedial1]

The reason the SSR didnt sell? Its hideous! Bulbous conceot car that shouldn't exist. As a big Gm guy, its embarrassing moment within great automotive history

[@pontiacmaniac7772]

The El Camino had styling, handling, and power. The SSR just had power and was late with the LS2 offering.

[@darwinskeeper421]

The main reason why the utes eventually fizzled out is that pickup trucks became desirable. Back when the original Austrailian utes came out the basic concept is that people wanted a car but needed a pickup, and a car with a bed on the back was a good compromise. This as back when pickup trucks were generally owned by farmers, ranchers and tradesmen and the few pickups owned by suburbanites usually belonged to outdoorsmen.

[@samueldeandrade9058]

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[@samueldeandrade9058]

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[@samueldeandrade9058]

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[@samueldeandrade9058]

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[@samueldeandrade9058]

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