Future Project help

[zerkom122]

I want to get a vehicle like the El Camino problem is gas mileage and it's no longer in production . I want to get a vehicle like this because I have the need for speed but need the utility of a truck. So my idea was to

1. Get a fairly cheap truck that is light. Undecided if I should get a small truck or a full size. The truck bed has to be big enough to fit a bmx bike. And would the benefits of getting a 4x4 be worth the drop in mpg?

2. Lower it to car height maybe lower but not to where it scrapes.

3. Do an engine swap and put a fast but not to gas guzzling motor in it like maybe a Corvette motor from the 2000s like 07' But this also depends on what truck I get because it has to be able to fit.

3. All other mods.

4. Have fun

I need your knowledge to know what will fit and what trucks are good for this purpose etc... Basically on what will be needed to get this to work. I'm still young and new to Engines and Trucks and stuff so I'm not to knowledgeable. My budget is 20k or under. Thank you to anyone who replies.

 

[Draenor]

I'd start with a fullsize 2000 and up GM truck. Then work from there. The truck will have most of your needs without the mods. The possibilities are endless on modifying the engine, even down to the 4.8l.

 

[Dartboy]

Does it snow where you live? If not, don't get the 4x4. No sense if you're going to lower it anyway. IMHO

For 20K you ought to be able to find a decent El Camino and not have to go through all the extra work, no?

 

[DV2000NJ]

Does it snow where you live? If not, don't get the 4x4. No sense if you're going to lower it anyway. IMHO

For 20K you ought to be able to find a decent El Camino and not have to go through all the extra work, no?

I disagree. Have you ever felt the difference between a 2wd and 4wd launch in a vehicle with a decent amount of power? If you're going to lower a powerful vehicle for street use, why not go with something that'll actually put the power down?

 

[Draenor]

 

[Dartboy]

Seems like he's looking for economy with a v8 rumble more than all-out power. 4x4 is going to hurt fuel economy, add to the purchase price and probably complicate the drop. IMHO, "cheap and light" goes against 4 wheel drive.

 

[Kennyray]

S-10 or Ranger with a V8.

 

[zerkom122]

I live in Southern California snow is not an issue. @Dartboy I would get an El Camino but this cmvehicle will have to be a daily driver still but be able to burn rubber when I feel the need for speed. But I still need the utility of a truck.

 

[zerkom122]

Also what trucks are more Aerodynamic? Because I know that effects performance and mpg. And would I need to cut the chassis to get a truck low like that?

 

[zerkom122]

I realize I didn't really state why I don't want an El Camino main reason is mpg. And there no longer in production.