1981 GMC C1500 Restored

Location: Wichita, Kansas

Why It's Curated: This 1981 GMC C1500 is for sale in Wichita, KS. This C1500 represents a comprehensive frame-off restoration and modernization of GM's iconic square-body pickup, transformed into a high-performance street truck with an estimated $80,000 investment. The custom-built 406 cubic inch V8 engine paired with a 700R4 four-speed automatic transmission creates a potent drivetrain that maintains period-correct aesthetics while delivering modern performance and reliability. The square-body C10/C1500 generation (1973-1987) has become increasingly collectible as enthusiasts recognize their clean styling, robust construction, and modification potential. This example's complete custom interior featuring leather upholstery and modern touchscreen with Apple CarPlay demonstrates attention to both comfort and contemporary functionality. The staggered wheel and tire setup with performance Goodyear rubber suggests serious consideration for handling dynamics, while the fresh burgundy paint and flawless undercarriage condition indicate no-expense-spared execution. As a fully sorted, turn-key example of what many consider the best-looking pickup truck ever produced, this C1500 offers the perfect blend of classic American truck aesthetics and modern performance capability.

Check out the pictures in the gallery & use the contact form to get in touch with us and the seller to ask questions and/or make an offer for this vehicle.

Model History: The 1981 GMC C1500 represents the mature evolution of GM's iconic square-body pickup design, introduced in 1973 and refined throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s. This generation marked a significant departure from the rounded styling of previous decades, featuring clean, angular lines that would define American truck aesthetics for over a decade. The C1500 designation indicated a half-ton capacity with rear-wheel drive, positioning it as GM's volume seller against Ford's F-150 and Dodge's D-150. By 1981, these trucks had incorporated numerous improvements including better rust protection, refined suspension geometry, and more efficient powertrains, while maintaining the robust ladder frame construction that made them favorites among both commercial users and enthusiasts. The square-body's timeless design and solid engineering created a platform that remains highly sought after for restoration and modification projects. The transformation of this particular C1500 with a custom-built 406 cubic inch V8 and 700R4 transmission represents the pinnacle of what these trucks can become when properly executed. The 700R4's overdrive capability addresses the original's highway fuel economy limitations while providing smooth, reliable shifting that complements the substantial power increase from the stroker motor. This comprehensive build demonstrates why square-body trucks have become the foundation for some of the most desirable street rods and pro-touring vehicles in the collector market. The combination of classic proportions, modern performance, and contemporary amenities like Apple CarPlay integration creates a vehicle that honors the original's utilitarian heritage while delivering 21st-century capability. As original square-body trucks become increasingly scarce and valuable, professionally executed builds like this offer the best of both worlds—authentic vintage aesthetics with modern reliability and performance that can be enjoyed daily without compromise.

Vehicle Details:
Year: 1981
Make: GMC
Model: C1500
Drive: Rear Wheel Drive
Miles: 1,000
Mileage Verification: True Miles Unknown
Fuel Type: Gasoline
Transmission: Automatic
Number of Forward Gears: 4
Engine: 406ci V8
Exterior Color: Burgundy
Interior Color: Tan
State of Registration: Kansas
Vehicle Location: Wichita
VIN: Available Upon Request
Title: Clean

Details:

Engine & Transmission:
Custom-built 406 cubic inch V8
700R4

Drivetrain, Suspension, Tires & Brakes:

Wheel Size and Offset: R10
Tire Brand, Model, and Size: 245/45 Goodyear Eagle RS-A tires up front and 285/40 Goodyear Eagle F1 tires

Exterior & Interior:
Car repainted

Leather interior
Completely custom, with a touchscreen that has CarPlay.
Working Heat: Yes
Working Air Conditioning: Yes

Other Notable Features or Functions:
The car is in amazing condition underneath as well. The build was easily 80K.

Recent Maintenance:
Custom drive train and engine recently serviced.

Mechanical, Rust, Cosmetic Known Flaws:
None