1996 Chevrolet C/K 1500 Series

The C/K 1500 is Chevrolet's half-ton pickup, the workhorse that defined the full-size truck for a generation. It rides like a proper truck, with a solid rear axle and a steering wheel that tells you exactly what the front tires are doing. The regular cab and extended cab both offer a deep, useful bed, and the interior is laid out so everything is where you reach for it. These trucks are known for their simple, durable construction, and many are still on the road doing heavy work every day. If you don't need a V8's towing muscle, this base C/K 1500 with the 4.3L V6 saves money at the pump and still handles a full day's work. The 4.3L V6 makes 200 horsepower and 255 lb-ft of torque, paired with a five-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive, and returns 18 mpg combined. Expect the ride to be firmer and the cabin simpler than a loaded Silverado, which is the trade for a lower price and proven durability.