Help with identifying the two

[BlackBuck!]

Hey, guys new to the forum looking to purchase el Camino. What’s the difference between 79 and a 83

 

[86LK]

2 headlights vs 4
grille
fender marker lights
dash, gauge cluster, and dash speaker
door mirrors
engine options
trim options (Black Knight, Royal Knight)
1978 is an oddball for the front spindles/rotors so if you're planning on keeping it stock.....
1978 had different taillights than the rest of them

really it boils down to do you prefer the look of 4 or 2 headlights, and the gauge cluster. the 78-82 also have more options when it comes to engines, and rear diff ratios. just depends on what you're going to do with it

 

[pagrunt]

 

[melloelky]

the antennas are in the windshield in the older vs on the fender in the later

 

[SS_Malibu]

I can only imagine the commercial for the Royal Knight.
"Did you just go to the drive-in theater last night and see Smokey and the Bandit and now want to get a 6.6 Trans Am just to find out you'll never be able to afford one?
Well let me introduce you to "The Royal Knight". It's way cheaper, way slower and you won't have to worry about it being a chick magnet. Plus it has a pickup bed just like grandpa's truck. Come down to your nearest Chevrolet Dealer and get yours today.

Welcome to the GBodyForum!
I personally like the '83 El Camino (and wagon) front end better than the earlier version. The gauges, interior and Sideview mirrors are also more appealing as well.

 

[Built6spdMCSS]

What’s the difference between 79 and a 83

Four.

Had to..