The Chevrolet C/K series trucks, particularly those from the second generation (1967-1972), hold a special place in the hearts of classic car enthusiasts and truck aficionados. Building upon the groundwork laid by the first series, Chevrolet introduced a redesigned C/K pickup in 1967, which quickly became admired for its blend of rugged capability and appealing aesthetics. While the entire generation is celebrated, the 1970 Chevrolet Truck stands out as a particularly significant model year, embodying the design evolution and performance enhancements that defined this era of Chevy pickups.
Alt text: Side profile of a gleaming 1970 Chevrolet C10 pickup truck showcasing its classic lines and Fleetside bed.
The 1967 redesign brought a more modern and refined look to the Chevy truck line. Coil springs at all four corners of the 1970 Chevrolet truck chassis ensured a smoother ride, a departure from the traditional leaf spring setups often found in trucks of the time. This focus on ride comfort, combined with the robust “Action Line” styling, made these trucks appealing for both work and leisure. Available in both Stepside and Fleetside configurations, the 1970 Chevrolet truck offered versatility to suit a range of needs and preferences. Stylistically, the grilles and trim were updated annually, making each model year subtly distinct, a characteristic keenly observed by collectors today.
The 1967 and 1968 models each possess unique features. The initial 1967 release featured a smaller rear window and lacked side marker lights, giving it a cleaner, more streamlined appearance. The 1968 models retained the grille integrated with the front fascia but incorporated the newly mandated side marker lights and a larger, more practical rear window. Moving into 1969 and 1970, the C10 and K10 models shared a very similar outward appearance, differentiated mainly by trim levels and under-the-skin options. However, the 1970 Chevrolet truck marked a significant powertrain upgrade with the introduction of the formidable Mark IV big block engine, displacing 402 cubic inches. While marketed as a “400” for this year only, this engine offered substantial power and torque, further enhancing the truck’s capabilities. This big block option added another layer of desirability to the 1970 Chevrolet truck, appealing to those who demanded serious performance.
Alt text: Close-up of the iconic front grille of a 1970 Chevrolet C10 truck, highlighting its chrome detailing and robust design.
While the 1971 and 1972 Chevy pickups are often cited as the most popular within this generation, thanks to their shared “egg crate” grille design and the addition of front disc brakes as standard, the 1970 Chevrolet truck holds its own unique appeal. The introduction of the 350 cubic inch small-block V8 in 1969, and the aforementioned 402 big block in 1970, ensured that these trucks were not just visually appealing but also offered strong performance. The availability of various trim packages throughout this generation further broadened their appeal. The Custom Sport Truck (CST) trim, introduced in 1967, brought car-like amenities to the pickup segment, including features like a cigarette lighter, bright interior and exterior trim, plush carpeting, and optional bucket seats. By 1971, the Cheyenne and later the Cheyenne Super trims elevated the luxury and style quotient even further.
Today, the second-generation Chevrolet C10 and K10 trucks, and particularly the 1970 Chevrolet truck, are highly sought-after collector vehicles. Their enduring popularity stems from a combination of factors: their timeless and attractive styling, robust build quality, and ease of driving in modern traffic conditions. Furthermore, their high production numbers and the use of engines shared with many popular Chevy cars mean that maintenance, restoration, and upgrades are relatively straightforward, contributing to their accessibility and continued enjoyment by enthusiasts. Whether equipped with a stamped steel box floor for hard work or the more premium wood planking, the 1970 Chevrolet truck represents a classic era of American pickups, blending style, performance, and practicality in a package that continues to captivate generations.
