The third generation El Caminos were built from 1968 to 1972. They are known as the "fastback" El Caminos, due to the sloping rear roof pillars. They are perhaps the best designed and most sought-after of all El Caminos.

The 1968 and 1969 models both feature a forward-sloping front grille. The 1970 El Camino has a revised front end with 4 headlights. 1971 and 1972 models are similar to 1970, but have two headlights and prominent front turn signals.

1968 has the backup lights in the bumper. They were moved to the tailgate for 1969-1972.

The 1968-1972 Standard El Caminos had plain tailgates. The Custom model had fancier trim, with simulated woodgrain on the tailgate. The SS El Camino had a black-accented tailgate.

Vinyl tops are somtimes seen on 1968-1972 El Caminos. One late-year option on the 1972 El Camino was a special two-tone paint version. It had special trim which ran from the bottom of the side windows to the tail lights. This was the dividing line between the two colors. I am currently searching for a good photo of this option.

In 1971, GMC introduced their verson of the El Camino, called the GMC Sprint. It was nearly identical to the El Camino except for emblems and decals.

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