Unique UTE: 1977 GMC Sprint – Sold?

March 21, 2022, Update – We just confirmed the listing for this “Classifind” expired, so with no replacement found we’re assuming this ride “Sold?” While this one got away, please reach out either by email or call us directly if you’d like to be informed when we come across something similar.

Until its marketing department came up with the “Professional Grade” segmentation campaign, GMC trucks were nothing more than rebadged Chevrolets.  A prime example is this 1977 GMC Sprint originally listed in February 2022 on Craigslist in Cinnaminson, New Jersey (Philadelphia) which is a rare version of the Chevrolet El Camino. The private seller reports this Sprint is a “real deal, rust-free survivor” and is a well-equipped example at that.

Currently offered for $18,500, comparing that price against the Hagerty Insurance Online Valuation Tool confirms the private seller has their GMC Sprint priced between this guide’s #2 “Excellent” estimate of $15,100 and its #1 “Concours” appraisal of $22,000.  Interestingly, the  Collector Car Market Review Online Tool reveals the seller’s ask is well above this guide’s #1 “Excellent” estimate of $13,334 after factoring in an eighteen percent premium for the desirable engine and equipment options.

As part of the GM’s new “Colonnade” based mid-size car lineup for 1973, Chevrolet and GMC redesigned its fourth generation El Camino and Sprint based on the Chevelle’s station wagon chassis. There were two different trim levels of Sprints during this period. The base model and Custom option shared interior and exterior appointments with the Chevelle Malibu.

The largest El Camino generation produced, the all-new chassis design featured a one-inch wider wheel track front and rear. The left wheel was adjusted to have a slightly more positive camber than the right, which resulted in more uniform and stable steering feel on high-crown road surfaces while maintaining excellent freeway cruise stability. Clearances for spring travel were also improved for a smoother ride over all types of surfaces. Despite being larger than its predecessor, this generation weighed slightly less than the prior one.

For 1976, Sprint models featured new quad rectangular headlights that were beginning to make their way across all GM cars.  Engines included the base 250 I6 engine, a new 140 horsepower 305-cubic-inch V8, two- and four-barrel 350s (with availability still depending on California delivery), and the 400-cubic-inch V8, still good for 175 horsepower. All engines except the 250 I6 came with the Turbo Hydra-Matic automatic transmission as the only transmission available. The 250 I6 came with a 3-speed manual or an optional Turbo Hydra-Matic.  For 1977, the last year of four-generation production, models were little changed other than the 400 cubic inch V8 was no longer available

The Osborn Tramain YouTube Channel features this vintage 1977 commercial for a virtually identical Chevrolet El Camino:

A well-optioned car in the right colors and completely original.  That’s what this 1977 GMC Sprint provides. Already nicely detailed, this great-looking low-mileage example has the potential to be a consistent show winner if you choose to go that route. The only thing we would consider updating before then is a redye of the faded door cards.  Good luck with the purchase!

Here’s the seller’s description:

“1977 GMC Sprint. Original Real Deal Survivor Car. Rust Free. Perfect Running 350 4bbl Engine mated to a smooth-shifting 350 Turbo Transmission. All Original Condition. Body Is in Excellent shape Paint is very very nice. The Interior is in excellent shape as well. The car is well equipped with Power Steering, Power Brakes, and A/C. Original Documents Included in the sale. This Truck is over 95% Original paint. Call with Any Questions Or Concerns. Cars is Cross Posted And Can Be Sold Locally $18,500 CASH or Wire Transfer. Clean Title In Hand.“

Show or go: what would you do with this 1977 GMC Sprint survivor?  Comment below and let us know!