LS3-Powered 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle RestoMod

Make: Chevrolet

Model: Chevelle

Type: Coupe

Seller Type: Dealer

Build Sheet

VIN: 13617Z7148325
Chevrolet Performance LS3 V8 crate engine
12-bolt rear end with 3.73:1 gears
Posi-traction limited-slip differential
Yukon axles
Detroit Speed coilover shocks at all four corners
CPP tubular front control arms
Ridetech tubular rear trailing arms
Wilwood four-wheel disc brake system
Hydroboost power-assist braking system
Marina Blue paint
2-inch steel cowl-induction hood
17-inch front Rallye-style wheels
18-inch rear Rallye-style wheels

Wrench Report

By Chris Esparza

RestoMods Head Mechanic. 20 year classic car mechanic & builder.

This 1966 Chevelle is a highly capable restomod that balances factory styling with contemporary performance architecture. I really dig the choice of a Marina Blue finish over staggered Rallye-style wheels, almost tricking you into thinking this is a run-of-the-mill Chevelle. Under the bodywork, the integration of an LS3 crate engine, a heavy-duty 4L80 transmission, and Detroit Speed coilovers takes this classic A-body from a straight-line cruiser into a precise, reliable machine. Turn the key to the sound of that rumbling Magnaflow exhaust system and you're ready to hit the streets in a modern powerhouse with classic vibes.

Description

This 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu was modified under previous ownership as a restomod and is powered by an LS3 V8 crate engine paired with a 4L80 four-speed automatic transmission. The car is finished in Marina Blue over a black vinyl bucket seat interior and features an upgraded coilover suspension, four-wheel disc brakes, and modern interior amenities. Acquired by the selling dealer American Steel Classics (Dealer ID# P171721) with a clean Texas title, this modified Chevelle is now offered for sale after undergoing a chassis dyno tuning session where it produced 404 horsepower at the rear wheels.

The exterior has been refinished in Marina Blue and features a 2" steel cowl-induction hood. Additional visual details include chrome bumpers, dual side mirrors, and replacement brightwork.

The car rides on a staggered set of 17-inch front and 18-inch rear Rallye-style wheels mounted with new tires.

The engine bay houses a Chevrolet Performance LS3 V8 crate engine equipped with aftermarket headers and a custom engine tune. Cooling is managed by an AFCO aluminum radiator with dual electric fans, and the fuel system utilizes an in-tank fuel pump and an Aeromotive fuel pressure regulator. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 4L80 four-speed automatic transmission that uses a Shiftworks adapter kit to retain the factory floor shifter. The drivetrain is completed by a 12-bolt rear end featuring 3.73:1 gears, a Posi-traction limited-slip center section, and Yukon axles.

The chassis has been updated with Classic Performance Products (CPP) tubular front control arms and Ridetech tubular rear trailing arms. Ride height and dampening are handled by Detroit Speed coilovers at all four corners. Braking is provided by a Wilwood four-wheel disc brake system equipped with a hydroboost power-assist system. A Magnaflow dual exhaust system featuring an X-pipe is routed through the underside of the vehicle.

In addition to the factory-style steering wheel, the cabin features front bucket seats and a rear bench upholstered in black vinyl, divided by a factory center console. Driver amenities include a Vintage Air climate control and heating system, a Retrosound Bluetooth stereo, and a set of Dakota Digital gauges mounted in the factory dashboard location.