But it was when General Motors made the clever and revolutionary decision in 1969 to magically transform their C/K Action Line pickup truck into the Chevrolet K5 Blazer that the form really began to take off. Although only around 5000 models were produced in that first year, those lucky and clearly adventurous consumers could drive a fun and exciting car on and off the paved roads; in the process the Blazer became an icon of American motoring.

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Its boxy silhouette and prominent chrome continues to turn heads today, perhaps the best styling such a multipurpose vehicle has ever had.

Both the Scout and Bronco were originally aimed at the Jeep CJ series – consequently all three vehicles were much smaller than the Blazer. Because the Blazer was developed from a shortened pickup truck – the K10 pickup truck platform reduced to 104 inches – this innovation both increased interior space (the cabin seemed to offer fields of cargo space, almost the size of a living-room) and lowered the cost of production by this use of a shared platform.

That cost-saving measure allowed it both to come to market quickly and to deliver greater capability than its competition. And so the Blazer quickly became popular.

The 1969 model is notable for its fully removable hardtop,  which Chevrolet retained until 1975, when safety concerns led to the makers opting for a permanently fixed hardtop. Yet the original innovative design allowed drivers to transform the Blazer from a closed SUV into an open-air cruiser, a feature that would become synonymous with the Blazer name for years.

Introduced for the 1969 model year to much critical acclaim, by 1970 the Blazer was already outselling both of its older rivals. The full-size Chevrolet Blazer SUV features a ladder-type frame with alligator-jaw cross-members riveted to heavy-gauge channel side rails; the SUV had tapered leaf springs and hypoid gearing for extra strength and greater tooth contact.

There also was considerable consideration of safety: the K5 Blazer came with two hydraulic systems operated by a dual master cylinder – should there be hydraulic pressure loss in either system, the other one would remain operative.

This first-generation – first months! – 1969 Chevrolet K5 Blazer is finished in its factory color Turquoise complemented with a gorgeous red interior. This vintage beauty is a true testament to the timeless appeal of these classic American trucks. With its iconic design and rugged build, the K5 Blazer is a symbol of power and optimal performance.

This SUV comes equipped with an automatic transmission with steering column, V8 engine, 2-barrel carburetor, power-steering, removable white hardtop, 2-spoke steering wheel, front disc brakes, chrome bumpers, and 15-inch steel wheels with BFGoodrich All-Terrain T/A tires. Step inside the cabin, and you’ll find a body color dash and front bucket-seats with a rear bench-seating with lap belts.(Surprisingly, the front passenger seat was optional, as was that wide bench seat in the rear.)

If you’re in the market for a true American classic truck that combines style, performance, look no further than this extremely original K5 Blazer that is mechanically sound.

As you can see, this Chevrolet K5 Blazer has a V8 engine, the top-of-the-range of the possible power-plants available for the Blazer.

Rugged? It is hard to come anywhere closer than with the Chevrolet K5 Blazer.

-Alex Manos, Owner