1970 GMC Pick Up

Embodying the rugged, no-nonsense American spirit of the era, the 1970 GMC pickup represents the pinnacle of classic truck design. Part of the wildly popular 1967-1972 “Action Line” generation, this truck is celebrated for its perfect blend of muscular styling, honest capability, and timeless aesthetics. It’s a true icon, equally at home on a worksite, a classic car show lawn, or a modern custom build.

Key Features & Design Highlights:

• Iconic, Muscular Styling: The 1970 model features a bold, squared-off front end with a prominent egg-crate grille (a signature GMC trait distinguishing it from its Chevrolet sibling), dual headlights, and a wide, commanding hood. The body lines are crisp and straight, flowing into strong fender arches and a utilitarian, yet balanced, profile.

• “Fender-Side” Body Lines: A defining design element is the character line that runs from the front fender, dips down along the cab, and kicks up dramatically over the rear fender. This “sway” line gives the truck a sense of motion and strength.

• Robust Construction: Built on a sturdy ladder-type frame, these trucks were designed for real work. The cab and bed are constructed from heavy-gauge steel, promising durability and a solid feel.

• Spacious & Functional Interior: The cabin is straightforward and purpose-driven. The “doghouse” engine cover, a three-spoke steering wheel, and large, easy-to-read gauges set in a simple metal dash define the experience. It’s a pure, analog driving environment.

• Wide Range of Configurations: Available in a vast array of options to suit any need:

  • Bed Styles: Short Fleetside (6.5 ft), Long Fleetside (8 ft), and Stepside.

  • Cab Styles: Standard cab or the highly sought-after Longhorn model with an 8.5 ft bed.

  • Drive Options: 2WD or 4×4.

  • Trim Levels: Ranging from the basic base model to the more comfortable Custom and top-tier Sierra Grande, which offered plush interior trim, carpeting, and extra insulation.

Powertrain & Performance (Typical Offerings):

GMC offered a range of robust inline-6 and V8 engines in 1970, known for their torque and reliability:

• Base Engine: 250 cubic inch (4.1L) Inline-6, a dependable workhorse.

• Popular V8 Options:

  • 307 cubic inch (5.0L) V8

  • 350 cubic inch (5.7L) V8

  • 396 cubic inch (6.5L) Big Block V8 (for maximum towing and hauling)

• Transmissions: 3-speed or 4-speed manual transmissions were standard, with a 3-speed Turbo Hydra-Matic 350 automatic as a popular option.

• Suspension & Brakes: A simple independent front suspension (coil springs on 2WD, leaf springs on 4×4) with a live rear axle on leaf springs. Braking was typically front disc/rear drum on higher-spec models, a significant upgrade from earlier all-drum systems.

Legacy & Collector Status:

Today, the 1970 GMC pickup is a highly desirable collector vehicle. Its clean lines make it a perfect canvas for restorations, restomods (combining classic style with modern LS V8 power and handling), and custom projects. Original, well-preserved examples, especially in rare configurations like the Sierra Grande trim or with factory big-block engines, command strong values