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With the actual start of summer approaching, perhaps it's time to bug out into the woods, toast some s'mores, and—best of all—rewind the clock to when things looked a bit easier. Sure, you could do it with all of the current overlanding amenities, but that may be missing the point. Instead, let's hit the camping in late-'70s style.
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This 1977 GMC Jimmy High Sierra, equipped with a Casa Grande pop-top camper, would be ideal, and it's now for sale on Bring a Trailer (which, like Car and Driver, is owned by Hearst Autos). The vehicle is square-jawed and attractive, with V-8 power and a real 4x4 transmission to transport you just a little further away from the madding throng. The camper convert makes it more like a home away from home, with a mini-fridge, gas burners, and a sink.
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The Casa Grande was the twin of the Chevrolet Blazer Chalet, both manufactured by Washington-based Chinook Mobilodge. It's understandable that the Pacific Northwest would generate a camper-building expert. Who wants to deal with rain-soaked tents when you can just wheel up to your mountain camping and pop the top?
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These setups were not inexpensive. They were five-figure constructions that cost more than twice as much as the truck on which they were based. As a result, just 225 were recorded. This one has been fully repaired, but with a touch of flare that adds a little more zip than the original. The golden paintwork has more metalflake than it did when new, and the designs are also brighter. Consider this: This truck represents Hollywood's interpretation of what the 1970s looked like rather than what things truly were. It has a bit of a shine.
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The 350-cubic-inch V-8 produces 165 horsepower and 255 pound-feet of torque through a three-speed automatic transmission, four-wheel drive, and a two-speed transfer case. The alternator and batteries are fresh, and the vehicle has 15-inch wheels with Goodyear tires.
Imagine getting out of bed and reflexively reaching for your smartphone, only to realize that you're out of service range. Open the door to allow the fir-scented air in, light a moka pot on the stove, and enjoy a more calm morning. Maybe play Neil Young's Live at Massey Hall acoustic concert. Sometimes going unplugged is better.
The auction closes on May 21.
