The Chevrolet Malibu El Camino, specifically the 1981-1983 facelifted model powered by the 5.7L diesel V8 engine paired with an automatic transmission, represents a unique chapter in Chevrolet’s history. This variant blended the practicality of a pickup truck with the styling of the Malibu sedan, offering a somewhat niche vehicle in the American market. Production ran from 1981 to 1983, positioned as a more utilitarian offering within the El Camino lineup, which had previously seen gasoline-powered V6 and V8 options. This diesel-powered El Camino aimed to capitalize on the fuel efficiency trends of the early 1980s, though it faced its own set of challenges.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Chevrolet |
| Model | Malibu |
| Generation | Malibu El Camino (Sedan Pickup, facelift 1981) |
| Type (Engine) | 5.7 d V8 (105 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1981 |
| End of production | 1983 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Pick-up |
| Seats | 3 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Power | 105 Hp @ 3200 rpm |
| Power per litre | 18.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 271 Nm @ 1600 rpm / 199.88 lb.-ft. @ 1600 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | LF9 |
| Engine displacement | 5735 cm3 / 349.97 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 8 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 103.05 mm / 4.06 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 85.98 mm / 3.39 in. |
| Compression ratio | 22.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Precombustion chamber injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHV |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.6 l / 6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt |
| Coolant | 17.3 l / 18.28 US qt | 15.22 UK qt |
| Fuel tank capacity | 67 l / 17.7 US gal | 14.74 UK gal |
| Length | 5121 mm / 201.61 in. |
| Width | 1776 mm / 69.92 in. |
| Height | 1408 mm / 55.43 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) | 160 mm / 6.3 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 13 m / 42.65 ft. |
| Approach angle | 23.5° |
| Departure angle | 17.5° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 14.5° |
| 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 5.7-liter (349.97 cubic inch) diesel V8, designated the LF9 engine code. This engine utilized a precombustion chamber injection system, a common design for diesel engines of the era. This system involved injecting fuel into a small pre-chamber within the cylinder head, where it would ignite and then ignite the main charge in the cylinder. The engine featured an overhead valve (OHV) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The high 22.5:1 compression ratio was typical for diesel engines, contributing to their efficiency but also requiring robust engine components. The three-speed automatic transmission was a TH350, a widely used and relatively durable unit, though its gear ratios were optimized for fuel economy rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 105 horsepower and 199.88 lb-ft of torque produced by the 5.7L diesel resulted in a driving experience focused on practicality rather than speed. Acceleration was noticeably slower compared to gasoline-powered El Caminos. The automatic transmission, while providing ease of use, further muted performance. The gear ratios were spaced to maximize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often felt strained when accelerating or climbing hills. However, the diesel’s torque characteristics provided reasonable pulling power for light-duty hauling. The overall driving experience was best described as relaxed and utilitarian, suitable for everyday commuting and light work tasks.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The diesel-powered El Camino typically came with a fairly basic level of equipment. Standard features included cloth upholstery, a basic AM radio, and manual windows and locks. Air conditioning was often an optional extra. The interior trim was generally functional and durable, reflecting the vehicle’s work-oriented nature. The dashboard layout was similar to other Malibu models of the time, with a straightforward instrument cluster and simple controls. Optional extras could include upgraded sound systems, cruise control, and power steering.
Chassis & Braking
The chassis of the 1981-1983 El Camino was based on the A-body platform, shared with other Chevrolet mid-size vehicles. The front suspension utilized an independent McPherson strut design with coil springs and an anti-roll bar. The rear suspension employed a traditional leaf spring setup with a transverse stabilizer. Braking was accomplished via ventilated discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. The braking system was adequate for the vehicle’s weight and intended use, but lacked the stopping power of more modern systems. The steering was a rack-and-pinion setup, providing reasonably precise control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The diesel-powered El Camino received mixed reviews. While praised for its fuel economy – a significant advantage in the early 1980s – it was often criticized for its lack of power and sluggish performance. Compared to the gasoline-powered V6 and V8 El Caminos, the diesel felt significantly slower. The diesel also had a reputation for being somewhat noisy and prone to cold-starting issues. The 1.8L gasoline engine offered in other Malibu models provided a better balance of performance and fuel economy for many buyers. The diesel El Camino appealed to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and light-duty hauling over outright performance.
Legacy
The Chevrolet Malibu El Camino with the 5.7L diesel engine represents a unique and somewhat forgotten chapter in automotive history. While not a commercial success, it demonstrated Chevrolet’s attempt to adapt to changing market demands and offer a fuel-efficient alternative in the pickup truck segment. Today, these diesel El Caminos are relatively rare and sought after by collectors and enthusiasts interested in unusual or historically significant vehicles. The LF9 diesel engine, while not known for its longevity, can be rebuilt and maintained with proper care. The overall reliability of the powertrain is considered moderate, with potential issues related to the fuel injection system and engine wear. In the used car market, these El Caminos typically command a modest premium due to their rarity and unique character.
