The Chevrolet Malibu El Camino, specifically the 3.8 V6 (110 hp) variant with a catalytic converter and automatic transmission, represents a unique and short-lived chapter in Chevrolet’s history. Produced for the 1980 and 1981 model years, this vehicle combined the traditional car-based platform of the Malibu with the utility of a pickup bed, creating a “sedan pickup” configuration. It was positioned as an entry-level offering within the El Camino lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a versatile vehicle for both everyday driving and light-duty hauling. This particular configuration sat below the more powerful V8 options available, offering a balance of affordability and practicality.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu |
| Generation | Malibu El Camino (Sedan Pickup) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 V6 (110 Hp) CAT Automatic |
| Start of production | 1980 |
| End of production | 1981 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 29 Hp/l |
| Torque | 258 Nm @ 1600 rpm / 190.29 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 3791 cm3 / 231.34 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96.5 mm / 3.8 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 86.4 mm / 3.4 in. |
| Compression ratio | 8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Carburettor |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2033 l / 71.79 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l / 17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal |
| Length | 5121 mm / 201.61 in. |
| Width | 1826 mm / 71.89 in. |
| Height | 1380 mm / 54.33 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2974 mm / 117.09 in. |
| Front track | 1486 mm / 58.5 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1467 mm / 57.76 in. |
| Front overhang | 915 mm / 36.02 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1232 mm / 48.5 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 136 mm / 5.35 in. |
| Approach angle | 23° |
| Departure angle | 16° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the rear wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 3 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | dependent spring suspension, Transverse stabilizer, Trailing arm |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/75 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this El Camino variant was the Chevrolet 3.8-liter (231 cubic inch) V6 engine. This engine, internally designated with various codes depending on the specific year and emissions configuration, was a relatively simple and durable design. It featured a carbureted fuel system, a common setup for the time, and an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain. The 8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and emissions requirements. The catalytic converter, denoted by the “CAT” in the model name, was a crucial component in reducing harmful exhaust emissions, mandated by increasingly stringent environmental regulations. The three-speed automatic transmission was a typical GM unit of the era, known for its smooth operation but not particularly sporty shift points. The engine was mounted longitudinally in the front of the vehicle, driving the rear wheels.
Driving Characteristics
With only 110 horsepower, the 3.8L V6 El Camino Automatic wasn’t a performance machine. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but passing maneuvers required planning. The automatic transmission, while comfortable, contributed to a somewhat sluggish feel compared to the available manual transmission options. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy and cruising, rather than outright speed. The rear-wheel-drive configuration provided a traditional driving experience, but the relatively soft suspension tuning prioritized ride comfort over handling precision. Compared to the V8-powered El Caminos, this variant offered a significantly more relaxed and fuel-efficient driving experience, albeit at the expense of performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8L automatic El Camino typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features generally included cloth upholstery, a basic AM radio, and manual windows and locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra, as were power steering and power brakes. The interior trim was functional and durable, reflecting the vehicle’s utilitarian nature. The dashboard layout was typical of early 1980s Chevrolet vehicles, with a straightforward design and easy-to-read gauges. Buyers could choose from a limited palette of exterior colors, and the availability of two-tone paint schemes added a touch of visual flair.
Chassis & Braking
The El Camino chassis was based on the A-body platform, shared with the Malibu sedan. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing a reasonable level of ride comfort and handling. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup with a transverse stabilizer, which was adequate for carrying moderate loads. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking system was generally effective for everyday driving, but lacked the stopping power of more modern systems. The 205/75 R14 tires provided a good balance of ride comfort and traction.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1980-1981 El Camino with the 3.8L V6 and automatic transmission was viewed as a practical and affordable option for buyers who needed a versatile vehicle. Critics generally praised its comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, but noted its lack of performance. Compared to the V8-powered El Caminos, this variant was significantly less expensive to purchase and operate. However, it also lacked the towing capacity and overall performance of its more powerful siblings. The 1.9L four-cylinder option was even more fuel efficient, but offered even less power. The El Camino competed with other compact pickup trucks, such as the Ford Courier and the Dodge Rampage, but offered a more car-like driving experience.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Malibu El Camino 3.8L V6 Automatic, while a relatively short-lived model, has gained a following among collectors and enthusiasts. The 3.8L V6 engine is known for its durability and relative simplicity, making it a relatively easy engine to maintain and repair. Parts availability is generally good, although some specific components may be difficult to find. Today, these El Caminos are often sought after as unique and affordable classic vehicles. Their combination of car-like comfort and pickup truck utility continues to appeal to a niche market of buyers. While not a high-performance machine, the 3.8L automatic El Camino represents a distinctive and interesting chapter in Chevrolet’s automotive history.
