Modern pickup trucks are gargantuan, but America’s favorite vehicle has a humble history. The 1960s produced charming designs that are aging well.
Cars come in all shapes and sizes — hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs, MUVs, coupes, convertibles, and pickup trucks. and more — each serving its purpose. Among these, pickup trucks are so popular in the U.S. that they are a fixture of America’s automotive landscape, serving as cultural icons and practical workhorses. The versatility of the pickup lies in delivering incredible power, a rugged nature, all-weather performance, and impressive towing capabilities. These features have earned the pickup a special place in the hearts of Americans. The Ford F-150 has been ruling the U.S. pickup truck market for the last four decades, and, according to Car and Driver, the top two best-selling vehicles of 2024 are none other than pickup trucks.
The world’s first pickup truck –- the Ford Model T Runabout –- was introduced back in 1925 and sold for $281. This pickup truck was so appealing that Ford moved over 33,000 units in the first year of production. Over the period, pickup trucks have evolved into tougher and more capable machines as decades passed. By the 1960s, competition and market demand encouraged automakers to merge heavy-duty performance with the comfort and artistic styling of passenger cars. The result was trucks from the 1960s becoming highly collectible in the modern world. Here are five of the best pickup trucks of the 1960s that defined a generation and laid the foundation of modern-day pickup trucks.Chevrolet C/K Series Second Generation (1967-72)
American automobile company Chevrolet has been manufacturing pickup trucks since 1918, with the first model being the Chevy Model 490 Light Delivery. The 1960s marked the beginning of one of its iconic models, the C/K Series pickup trucks. The ‚C‘ in the C/K Series indicated two-wheel drive models, whereas the ‚K‘ denoted four-wheel-drive options. The first-generation model came with an all-new frame, new suspension for a smooth ride, a dropped center frame that made it easier to get in and out of the truck, and introduced independent front suspension, which supplied the C/K Series with car-like handling.
The second-generation Chevrolet C/K Series pickup trucks built between 1967 and 1972 brought more innovation. Notably, the second-generation C/K Series was also called the ‚Action Line‘ because not only did it include an upgraded suspension and chassis, but it also introduced luxurious interiors coupled with exteriors featuring modern design language. The second-generation Chevrolet C/K Series pickup trucks were also the first to debut coil-spring rear suspension, improving maneuverability.
The second-generation C/K Series was also offered in a variety of engine options, including inline-six and the powerful 327 ci V8 powerplants, and a 4×4 trim for heavy work. For those willing to spend extra money, Chevrolet offered luxury-focused Custom Sport Truck (CST) and Cheyenne trims that added lavish interiors, extra chrome, upgraded seats, and other cosmetic improvements.
