In the world of automotive mashups, some builds push boundaries—and then there’s this: an all-wheel-drive, Honda-powered El Camino. It’s the latest project from BodeVision, where creativity meets mechanical madness, and where no idea is too wild to tackle.
With past projects like an LS-swapped Honda Accord and the F350-Town Car hybrid, it was only a matter of time before something truly groundbreaking took shape. The challenge this time? Merging the rugged reliability of a Honda CRV with the unmistakable style of a Chevy El Camino, resulting in a one-of-a-kind machine that’s set to dominate both car shows and the drag strip.
The Vision: Fusing JDM Power with American Muscle
The idea sparked with one question: What if you swapped the roles? Instead of the traditional V8-in-a-Honda formula, why not drop a Japanese powerplant into an American classic? That’s when the hunt began for the right donor vehicles—an all-wheel-drive manual Honda CRV and a 1980s Chevy El Camino.
After scouring the marketplace, the perfect CRV was found, ready to donate its legendary B20 engine and AWD drivetrain. But the puzzle wasn’t complete without the right body to merge it with. Ty toyed with the idea of a Ford Falcon Gasser build but ultimately settled on the El Camino for one key reason—the steering wheel-to-front-wheel distance.
“The El Camino’s dimensions lined up almost perfectly with the CRV,” he explains, making it the ideal candidate for this Frankenstein build.
Acquiring the Dream Machines
After weeks of searching and negotiating, the two crucial pieces of the puzzle finally came together.
First up: the Honda CRV.
“I don’t even know the year, but it doesn’t matter—it’s all-wheel-drive and manual, and that’s all I need,” Ty says with excitement, already envisioning the potential.
Next, the El Camino. After some frustrating false starts with sellers backing out, he found a solid example just waiting to be transformed. It wasn’t perfect, but it was perfect for this build.
“We got the Elco rolling down the street, and I couldn’t be more hyped for what’s to come,” he shares, brimming with enthusiasm.
Tearing It Down and Getting to Work
Back at the shop, the real work began. The CRV, once a humble commuter SUV, was quickly stripped down to its essentials. Panels came off, the interior was gutted, and soon enough, the once-recognizable Honda shell was reduced to a skeleton of what it once was.
“We’re making quick work of it, and every part that comes off will be up for sale—junkyards stay in business for a reason!”
Even the windshield removal followed Ty’s signature DIY style. No fancy tools—just good old-fashioned elbow grease and a little heat to melt the glue. Efficiency over elegance, every time.
The Challenges of Merging Two Worlds
With the CRV down to its bare bones, it was time to tackle the biggest challenge: fitting it to the El Camino. The dimensions were close, but close doesn’t mean perfect. Careful measurements ensured that the CRV’s dashboard width would fit within the El Camino’s classic lines.
“We’re good by about a quarter of an inch on each side. Perfect fit.”
But it wasn’t just about squeezing things in—the structural integrity of the unibody CRV needed reinforcement. A roll cage might be in order, ensuring the new AWD beast could handle serious power without twisting itself apart.
What’s Next?
The next step in this ambitious build? Stripping down the El Camino and preparing it to sit atop the CRV’s AWD chassis. Ty’s confidence in the project is unwavering, even as he acknowledges the challenge ahead.
“I’ve trimmed everything, but I know I’ll be trimming about a thousand more times before we get this perfect.”
Despite the challenges, the excitement is building—literally and figuratively.
What’s in a Name?
With such an unconventional build, Ty is calling on his audience for the perfect name. Some ideas are already floating around:
- Elco-Hondo
- Honda Camino
- El Caminohda
The possibilities are endless, and feedback is always welcome. If you have name ideas, leave a comment!
Join the Journey
If you’re as excited about this wild mashup as we are, make sure to watch the whole series here.
Want to support the project? Check out the ongoing giveaway for the LS-swapped 1988 Honda Accord, with all proceeds going toward more epic builds.
Click here to enter: http://shopbodevision.com
And don’t forget to subscribe to BodeVision for more automotive insanity:
YouTube: @BodeVision
This AWD Honda-powered El Camino is shaping up to be one of the most unique builds in the scene. Whether it’s on the streets, at shows, or on the strip—when it’s done, it’s guaranteed to turn heads and drop jaws.
About Bode Vision
