1965 Chevrolet C10 Short-Bed Pickup - LS1 Turbo

1965 Chevrolet C10 LS1 Turbo.

This 1965 Chevrolet C10 Short-Bed Pickup combines the unmistakable proportions of Chevrolet's Apache-era truck with a thoroughly modernised mechanical package. Its classic shape and restrained exterior presentation retain the character that made the mid-1960s C10 so enduring, while the rebuilt running gear gives it a far more purposeful road presence than an original workhorse.

At the centre of the conversion is a 5.7-litre LS1 Chevrolet small-block fitted with a Billet Core Pro Boost 80mm turbocharger, custom turbo manifolds, a TurboSmart 60mm wastegate, twin Holley 525 fuel injector pumps and a mild camshaft. The listing states an output of 700 horsepower at high rpm. Supporting equipment includes MSD ignition, an aluminium radiator with SPAL electric fans, a Castlemaine Rod Shop high-torque starter motor and a transmission cooler, creating a package designed around the demands of turbocharged performance rather than simply adding power in isolation.

Power is delivered through a TH400 automatic transmission with a 2800-stall converter. A new Oliver's one-piece tailshaft and Dana 12-inch differential with limited-slip differential complete the driveline, while a custom 3.5-inch stainless-steel exhaust with twin stainless mufflers gives the truck a suitably assertive mechanical character. Modern electric power steering is another practical improvement, reducing the effort required to manoeuvre a substantial classic pickup.

The chassis and braking upgrades are equally relevant to real-world use. Power-assisted disc brakes at the front work with rear drums, and lowered springs with factory shocks give the truck a more settled stance. Twenty-inch steel wheels are fitted with 245/45ZR20 front tyres and 255/45ZR20 rear tyres, adding visual impact while reflecting the broader performance focus of the build.

Inside, the C10 deliberately avoids an overly elaborate custom-car treatment. The standard Chevrolet-style layout remains central, with a plush bench seat, painted dashboard, polished steering column, wood-grain steering wheel and full carpeting. New glass and door rubbers contribute to the refreshed presentation, while aftermarket pedals, a Kenwood head unit with Bluetooth connectivity and Vintage Air conditioning make the cabin more usable in contemporary conditions. A dash-mounted speedometer display provides an additional modern touch without overwhelming the original character.

The truck was fully restored approximately four years before the listing and is described as a show-winning example. Its combination of period styling, a carefully specified LS1 turbo installation, automatic transmission and upgraded steering, braking and cooling systems makes it a distinctive classic pickup with considerably broader capability than its appearance suggests. It was listed with current full NSW registration through November 2026 and Queensland Blue Plate status.

• 5.7-litre LS1 turbocharged V8
• Billet Core Pro Boost 80mm turbocharger
• TH400 automatic transmission with 2800-stall converter
• Dana 12-inch limited-slip differential
• Power-assisted front disc brakes and rear drums
• Electric power steering and Vintage Air conditioning
• 20-inch steel wheels with staggered performance tyres

Other highlights include Condition: Used; Body type: Pickup truck; Odometer: 44,179 km; Powertrain: Petrol; Engine or motor: 5.7 litre LS1 Chevrolet small block, turbocharged; Exterior colour: Beige; Interior colour: Brown.