Escalade-Powered 1968 GMC C1500 Could Be Your Little Secret, Looks Totally Awesome

Second-gen C/K models were produced for the 1967 through 1972 model years, with multi-purpose usage in mind. They were also more durable and more comfortable than first-generation trucks, with solid convenience features on board such as automatic transmissions, AM/FM radio... carpeting. These babies were fully loaded! Just kidding. They were fine.

For the 1968 model year, which is relevant to our story, both Chevy and GMC trucks received larger “full view” rear windows. GMC also decided to move the badge from the grille to the hood, which was kind of a good idea at that time, seeing as how it did fit with the design of the front fascia.

Now, this 1968 GMC C1500 pickup is already legendary by the looks of it. When it last changed owners, new body panels were added, and the entire exterior was finished in blue. Speaking of the exterior, the chassis was converted to a short wheelbase and a short bed was installed, resulting in a fresh new appearance.

Other visual highlights include the black trim, tinted windows, LED taillights, custom fuel filler cap, and a set of black 20-inch US Mags wheels with Toyo Extensa HP II tires measuring 245/40 at the front and 275/40 at the rear.

Suspension-wise, we’re dealing with KYB shocks, leaf springs and lower springs, while the braking system features red calipers to go with cross-drilled and slotted rotors. The end-result is a dynamic stance, which suits the design of the truck surprisingly well.

Inside, you’ll find a replacement bench seat “borrowed” from a 2004 Cadillac Escalade, reupholstered in black vinyl to match the dashboard pad. The truck also comes with a custom three-spoke steering wheel, Vintage Air climate control system with air conditioning, New Vintage gauges, a fold-down center console, sun visors, plus an Alpine head unit with subwoofers and a 1000-watt Kenwood amplifier.

As for the engine, it was sourced from that very same Escalade where they got the bench seat. However, the seller did make some upgrades: a BTR camshaft and pushrods, beehive valve springs, ARP head bolts, LS9 head gaskets, LS7 filters, a Frostbite aluminum radiator, dual electric fans, long-tube headers and a dual exhaust system with Black Widow Venom 250 mufflers, among other things.

We’re not sure how much power this engine is making right now, but a stock 6.0-liter LQ9 V8 unit would produce 345 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque on a 2004 Escalade. Anyway, however much it is now, it’s all going to the rear wheels via a 4L80-E four-speed automatic gearbox.

Now, if you’d like to make this truck your own, there’s only one day left to bid as of 08.30.2023, but get ready to spend over $25,000.