The Chevrolet El Camino debuted in 1959, a response to the Ford Ranchero that had been introduced two years before. For some reason, it took GMC 12 more years to introduce its own version of the El Camino. One of these novelties is our Pick of the Day, and it’s bound to keep you answering questions from the general public. This 1972 GMC Sprint SP is listed for sale on ClassicCars.com by a dealership in Lithia Springs, Georgia.
The GMC Sprint was available from 1971-77 and, like the El Camino, it was available in standard and more upscale Custom trim levels. Beyond trim levels, GMC also offered a performance package in the form of the SP equipment, which was akin to the El Camino with Super Sport equipment. The El Camino SS was available with a 350 two-barrel at a minimum and, presumably, the Sprint SP started off with the same engine, though the brochure gives no indication of this; for 1972, the Sprint brochure shows the ute available as a V8-powered Custom model, though I suspect in real life the 350 two-barrel was the required minimum.
You may be familiar with Chevrolet engine names, but the Sprint took a page from Canadian Pontiacs and gave these “borrowed” engines different names because, after all, they were different brands. Whereas the Bow Tie V8s were Turbo-Fire small-blocks and Turbo-Jet big-blocks, GMC named all Sprint V8s “Invader.” That included the LS5 454 (the LS6 was listed as being available in 1971, but no Chevelles of any sort received this engine from the factory). The Invader 454 required the SP package, while the other Invader V8s could be ordered with or without the package.
Interestingly, the El Camino SS was discontinued for 1974, while the Sprint SP continued through 1977. Starting in 1978, the Caballero took over where the Sprint left off, lasting through 1987, when General Motors discontinued the RWD mid-size platform. Utes from Detroit would not appear until the advent of the 2022 Ford Maverick, although there have been several light-duty pickups from Subaru, Honda, and Hyundai.
As you might have surmised, this Bright Blue 1972 GMC Sprint SP is quite unusual. Only 6,473 Sprints were built, with a surprising 749 equipped with the SP package. This one is powered by the LS3 240-horsepower 402 (as evidenced by the “U” in the VIN) backed by a column-shifted TH400 automatic. This engine would be rare in an El Camino but in a Sprint? “The aggressive pickup design showcases distinctive Sprint SP styling cues, power front disc brakes, and factory dual exhaust outlets that amplify this truck’s muscular appearance,” says the seller. “A clean black vinyl interior welcomes with a classic bench seat design.” Features include a RetroSound AM/FM/Aux stereo with Bluetooth capability and custom speakers, power steering, and air conditioning. The 402ci Invader V8 is topped by a Holley four-barrel carburetor with support from an HEI electronic ignition and a Flo-Pro dual exhaust system.
El Caminos are everywhere—even SSs, and we know every single SS is a real one, right? But a Sprint SP is something different and unique. This ute is best owned by an extrovert, as you will have to entertain many questions about this $39,995 1972 GMC Sprint SP when you take it out around town.
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