chevy c10 newbie

Hi, so I'm pretty much a newbie to these types of trucks but do want to get into them. So, I'm looking at the 1980 Chevy c10 and was wondering would that be one to be worth investing in? The goal is to hopefully purchase one sometime in February and just want to know if that year is a reliable truck. if not what would you recommend. As, well as what size engine, etc. I do want to customize the truck by giving it an off road type of look. So, any bit of info would be appreciated! thanks!

One thing to consider is that any vehicle 1976 and newer is required by California to be smog compliant.

This means that all the equipment must be installed and pass a smog check.

In response to the original post, pick out a year and body style that you like, and can afford. Then make it yours, as time and money permit. Any year of Chevy trucks is going to be reliable. They always have been. Not saying that because I own one, (have owned quite a few, from early 60's models through 2002), it is a proven fact. Now with that said, some years were a bit prone to rust in certain places on the truck, in nasty northern climates where a lot of harsh chemicals were used on the roads in the winter. I don't think you'll have to worry about that in SoCal. :)