Adding Modern Performance And Handling To A Classic Envelope
This cool yellow 1968 Oldsmobile 442 looks great, but the owner wanted better handling, braking, and comfort, while adding more reliable power and a smoother shifting transmission to the car without sacrificing the classic look. The solution is the installation of at Roadster Shop chassis and a 530 HP Blueprint Engineering LS3 V8, hooked to a Tremec TKX 5-speed manual transmission.
Restoring As Needed
This 1968 Oldsmobile 442 had been restored once, but we discovered some areas needing attention. We replaced the rusty dashboard and performed some floor pan repairs during the process. The goal was to perform the required tasks without re-restoring the entire car.
Upgrades With Drivability In Mind
The foundation is a Roadster Shop chassis, which is not only stiffer than the original GM chassis, but it also incorporates improved suspension geometry, stroger parts, and spring, shock, and steering technology over 50 years more advanced than the 1968 design. The end result is a car that drives phenomenally well while not losing the original 442 appearance. Foose Design wheels provide a modern interpretation of the original 442 Super Stock II wheels wrapped with Nitto tires.
LS3 + TKX = Way More Fun!
The 530 HP all-aluminum Blueprint Engineering LS3 V8 engine provides modern and reliable power while saving weight and eliminating old-design leaks. A Tremec TKX 5-speed transmission from Modern Driveline is able to handle over 600 ft-lbs of torque and adds an overdrive 5th gear, all while capable of 7500+ RPM shifts. It is geared to match the rear axle ratio and power curve of the engine, so the hydraulically-clutched 5-speed adds to the fun while being easy to drive. A Magnaflow exhaust provides just enough rumble at idle, with comfortable sound levels cruising down the road.
Enjoying The Drive
Inside, we’ve upfitted this 1968 442 with Dakota Digital gauges in the dash, along with a Vintage Air A/C system to keep things cool. The Modern Driveline hydraulic clutch works easily and smooth, but still grabs tightly. We found this car to be very comfortable and quiet going down the road, until you mash the throttle and wake up the 530 horsepower LS3!
Follow The Build
The photos tell the story of how the V8 Speed and Resto Shop team transformed this Olds into a road car that the driver can enjoy all day long. Our team is very experienced in building these type of Pro-Touring Muscle Cars for those who put the emphasis on driving performance. What can we build for you? Contact the V8 Speed and Resto Shop today to chat about your dream classic, Hot Rod, or Muscle Car!
1969 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster on display at the 2025 SEMA Show in the Coker Tire display showcasing new Pro-Trac raised white letter low-profile high-performance tires.
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Transforms a 1969 Corvette Roadster
FULL BUILD VIDEO
1969 Chevrolet Corvette Rendering by Murray Komant, Built At V8 Speed and Resto Shop
This 1969 Chevrolet Corvette Roadster wasn’t just getting a makeover, it was undergoing a complete metamorphosis at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. Gone was the original small-block Chevy 350 V8 and 4-speed transmission, replaced with a heart-pounding 427 cubic inch big-block engine and a smooth-shifting Tremec TKX 5-speed transmission. But that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the extensive upgrades:
Engine and Drivetrain:
Powerhouse Upgrade: The as-delivered 350 V8 was swapped for a Chevrolet Performance ZZ427 crate engine, churning out 480 horsepower and 490 lb-ft of torque. This legendary big-block promises exhilarating performance.
Modern Transmission: A Tremec TKX 5-speed transmission replaces the 4-speed, offering a wider gear range and smoother shifting for a more enjoyable driving experience.
Clutch and Flywheel: A smooth hydraulic clutch from Modern Driveline provides easy action and strong clamping force.
Fuel Delivery: A Holley Terminator X EFI system replaces the carburetor for precise fuel metering and improved performance.
Cooling System: A new radiator, hoses, and electric fan ensure the powerful engine stays cool.
Brakes and Suspension:
Stopping Power: The stock brakes were replaced with a Wilwood big brake kit featuring red calipers and larger rotors for superior stopping power. New brake lines, hoses, and a proportioning valve complete the upgrade.
Hydraulic Brake Booster: This brake power booster provides smooth action, low pedal effort, and vastly increased clamping force than the original vacuum boost unit at a smaller size.
Enhanced Handling: Bilstein shocks and a comprehensive suspension rebuild with polyurethane bushings improve handling and provide a more responsive ride.
Aggressive Stance: Rocket Racing wheels wrapped in high-performance BF Goodrich tires provide a bold look and enhanced handling. The Diamondback Classics customized tires feature a period redline to adds a sporty touch of red.
Interior Upgrades:
Luxury Comfort: The interior received a complete overhaul. The seats were reupholstered in-house in luxurious Phantom Black leather with perforated inserts for breathability and contrasting blue stitching. New door panels, carpets, and a center console create a fresh and stylish atmosphere.
Modern Conveniences: A Vintage Air A/C system keeps the driver cool on hot days. A Zip Corvette radio with upgraded speakers provides entertainment. USB charging ports allow for convenient device charging. A Dakota Digital cruise control system was installed for added comfort on long drives, with Dakota Gauges keeping the driver up to speed.
Exterior Transformation:
Arrow-Straight Bodywork: The Corvette’s fiberglass body construction requires special techniques to repair and refinish, and the V8 Speed and Resto Shop performed extensive repairs and refinements to the body to improve fit and finish.
Show-Stopping Paint: The original paint job was replaced with a stunning custom blue chosen by the owner. A red-outlined metallic charcoal stripe enhances the deep blue body. The flawless finish and meticulous application make this Corvette a real head-turner.
Aggressive Stance: Rocket Racing wheels wrapped in high-performance BF Goodrich tires provide a bold look and enhanced handling. The Diamondback Classics customized tires feature a period redline to adds a sporty touch of red.
Functional Aesthetics: An L88 hood adds a touch of muscle car history, while functional upgrades like ceramic-coated headers and original Corvette-style side pipes sing the song of the 427.
Additional Details:
The car also received a complete wiring overhaul with a new battery and various electrical upgrades.
Many original parts were meticulously restored or replaced with high-quality reproduction parts, ensuring the car retains its classic character.
This meticulous restoration project by the V8 Speed and Resto Shop transformed a classic Corvette into a modern muscle car masterpiece. With its powerful engine, upgraded drivetrain, luxurious interior, and show-stopping paint job, this Corvette Roadster is ready to conquer the road in style and comfort.
Museum Piece For The Street
After completion, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop team was honored to have the ’69 Corvette Roadster invited to be part of an amazing multi-generational Corvette display at the Garage Automotive Museum in Salina, Kansas. The blue ’69 was right at home flanked by other outstanding Museum Corvettes, but this car is destined to be driven on the open roads of America.
MCACN Winner!
The ’69 was part of the V8 Speed and Resto Shop 20th Anniversary Invitational display at the 2024 Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals where it scored a sizzling 994 out of 1000 points in the Super Street/Modified class! The V8 team brought 6 cars, and the Corvette drew a crowd all weekend.
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team understands personally significant vehicles and the freedom they deliver. We can transform your existing ride, or design and craft a custom bespoke automobile tailored specifically for you. We invite you to contact us today to start the conversation.
We’ve recently completed a 1970 Ford Mustang convertible restoration here at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. This is a cool Mustang Restomod with a rich history, and has been in the same family since the summer of 1972! The V8 Speed team completely disassembled the car for rust repairs and suspension upgrades, fixed the rusty and damaged body, and repainted the Mustang in a nearly-original color.
It’s powered by a Ford 302 V8 backed by a C4 automatic transmission, and was equipped from the factory with air conditioning. Our customer drove the car often, as it was her first car back in 1972. Over the years, the ‘70 Mustang was driven by the next generation in the family, until it was wrecked in 1993 and subsequently parked. It had not been driven since then, and we were happy to return it to the road once completed.
The Restoration Process
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop team disassembled the entire car, and stripped all the paint to reveal previous damage and rust repairs. The convertible Mustang was mounted on a fixture in our fabrication shop to keep the body structure supported and true, and sheet metal repairs began. The quarter panels, rear tail panel, doors and floors were all replaced with new steel.
While this car is restored to appear original, we modified a few aspects of the car for better drivability, reliability, performance, and more enjoyment. For example, we installed an upgraded front suspension system from Rod and Custom Motorsports, which provides a tubular upper and lower control arm assembly based on the later Mustang II geometry. It also features an oversized sway bar and a rack and pinion steering unit for more precise control and modern Mustang Road feel. Improved front disc brakes are also installed, along with all new plumbing and brake lines to help the Mustang stop better. Familiar but upsized 17” Magnum 500 wheels from Scott Drake are wrapped in Bridgestone tires.
Watch The 1970 Ford Mustang Restoration Videos
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Adding Complimentary Technology That Fits The Theme
The 302 small block Ford V8 was rebuilt, and is now topped with a FiTech fuel injection system for modern-day reliability, which is also controlling the electronic distributor and ignition timing. This car came from the Ford factory with air conditioning, but we elected to install a more efficient A/C system from Vintage Air, which uses current refrigerant to cool the air. The front accessory drive is a black serpentine system from CVF Racing, complete with a high-flow water pump and higher output alternator.
The color is very close to the original Ford Medium Bright Blue, but it’s been tweaked a bit as preferred by the owner for a bit more… pop! And where the original paint was a single-stage blue, today’s urethane 2-stage basecoat / clearcoat shines far more than the original finish ever did.
New Interior With A Familiar Look
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop interior shop rebuilt the bucket seats and rear seat, upholstering them in the original white / parchment hue, and a new black carpet covers the sound-deadened floor. The top frame and hydraulic system was restored, and we installed a new white convertible top. Fresh glass looks crisp and clean, Dozens of new trim pieces from Classic Industries were installed to make things new again inside.
This family heirloom 1970 Mustang Convertible is nicer looking, and nicer to drive, than it was when it rolled off the assembly line brand new. We at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop are honored to have the opportunity to bring it to a new level for many more years of family enjoyment.
Weather It’s a stock original restoration, a mild restomod, a road-hugging pro-touring machine, a fiery hot rod, or a full-out custom, the V8 Team has what it takes to bring your dream car to life. Contact us anytime to chat about your desires and how we can create a one-of-a-kind ride just for you!
Author: Miguel Pujols Content: Great job, she’s better than new, hope the family enjoys for many smile per mile of years ahead! The classic always appeal to me its like stepping in a time machine, but a RestoMod where it counts makes it so much sweeter…
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Author: James Hutchins Content: Absolutely beautiful! Love the very sensible upgrades making her a sweet daily driver or a show car. A true win win.
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Author: Jason Hull Content: Looks so sharp and clean. You guys sure do good work. I would be honored to build classic’s with you guys ! Keep em coming. We can’t get enough of them. I’d love to see what you could do to My 1970 Camaro too. Lol
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Author: Rick Read Content: Absolutely gorgeous! I like every thing that was upgraded to modernize the car, I’m loving it!
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Author: JSR Roadrash Content: Your team does outstanding work. Beautiful Mustang with a great history.
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Author: Annatar the Maia Content: What comes out of your workshops isn’t work, it’s art.
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Author: Trip Reviews Content: Although I like an all original mustang this is a fantastic updated 1970 Mustang. The classic look has been maintained and yet it is new. Nice. 👍
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Author: GPLIPP Content: Another home run guys. Well done!!
Author: Charles Dalton Content: There are so many things well done on this car but I kept coming back to the panel gaps. They look like they were cut with a laser – holy mackerel!
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Author: KFH Content: More great work… A Real Beauty!!!
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Author: Codename C.A.R.S Content: Nice car!
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Author: John R Smith Content: I had the identical car, except mine had the deluxe interior, which included a console. Absolutely the worst car I ever owned, because of a complete lack of quality control during assembly. Virtually everything was wrong with the car, and I only owned it for 3500 miles. Sad, because it was a neat little car.
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Author: Kenan Turkiye Content: There’s something about metallic blue and chrome on a good car.
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Author: echoi Content: This restomod is the gold standard on what a restomod should be. Compared to cars with chrome air cleaners, chrome valve covers, Obnoxious 20″ rims, those generic jeep LED units, and obnoxiously loud speakers in the back. Eeewww
This 1971 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne is a former work truck that is getting some great performance upgrades, but keeping the weathered look at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. This 1971 C10 is very special to the owner, as it belonged to a close family friend and has been a part of his life since the late 1980s. We showed you how this truck looked when it came into our shop, and Today, it’s ready to be put back in service!
The recipe called for the 71 C10s cab and bed to be lifted off the frame, and then the chassis was disassembled, media blasted, and powder coated black. All new suspension bushings, ball joints, tie rod ends, and other wear parts were installed, along with a complete differential and rear gear rebuild.
Power comes from a Blueprint Performance 383 stroker Chevy V8 engine, with a hydraulic roller cam, roller rockers, aluminum heads and intake, and a Holley Sniper EFI system making 430 horsepower. It’s bolted to a built 700R4 overdrive automatic transmission for smooth highway cruising.
The suspension is new with lowered spindles, springs, and shocks, and the ‘71 C10 now rolls on 20” Detroit Steel wheels for a modern look. Ned bed wood completes the look.
Inside, the V8 Speed & Resto Shop interior department restored the original interior to look brand new. We recovered the seats in the original Cheyenne pattern, upgraded the dash with new Dakota Digital gauges, added upgraded audio, vintage air a/c, cruise control, tilt steering… all things you’d expect in a modern truck. Plus, a secret exhaust cutout switch turns up the volume on the 383 at will!
We’re excited to see this 1971 Chevrolet C10 Cheyenne rolling down the road, and the owner is looking forward to making more memories with the old friend of a truck.
1971 Chevrolet C10 Performance Upgrades Video V8 Speed & Resto Shop V8TV
1971 Chevrolet C10 Performance Upgrades Completed Video V8 Speed & Resto Shop V8TV
Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!
817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278
Author: Brody Prater Content: That’s my truck, thanks V8 for making my dream a reality!! You guys did an amazing job on my girl!!
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Author: Scootosan Content: Well done. The variable exhaust is a nice touch. My Dad had a 48 Ford with a Flat head and a manual valve on the floor from Muffler when the Cops around and then back to straight. Modern wheels that are relative to the factory appearance is the perfect choice.
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Author: Charles Dalton Content: That truck is perfect. Until now, I didn’t care for “rustifications” (as I call them) but now I see it’s because the other ones weren’t executed properly. And the paint to match the weathering and rust – that is artistry. Outstanding – you all should be proud!
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Author: raddad10 Content: Absolutely lovin it. Pretty much what is going on with my 64 short bed big window C10. Unfortunately, the truck doesn’t have a good enough patina to wear on the road. Great job guys!!!!!!
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Author: DIY Life Content: Awesome! Looks old, but performs like its new! Best way to restore! Great Job V8S&R!
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Author: Garden Content: Great build, big advantage when you can take your ride out for lunch and not worry about door dings . It looks like that tilt you used is way too far back than any I have seen?
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Author: James Hutchins Content: Looks like a good, safe and dependable driver. Sweet
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Author: Kevin Guthrie Content: You can polish that single stage factory paint to a mirror shine. If you wax it enough times where there’s rusted sun burned through paint it just becomes shiny bare steel and it looks really good
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Author: GPLIPP Content: Nicely done!
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Author: Cyclone Kevin Content: Very nice job.
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Author: James Veach Content: really nice I have a 1987 Ford ranger I wish I could do that too but since I live on $700 a month Social security it’s only a pipe dream I guess
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Author: Gary Jones Content: Nice truck…
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Author: Phillip S Content: RESPECT!
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Author: G McNelly Content: Ain’t no good if you can’t drive them (a lot)!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
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Author: Harold Lemons Content: Please buy mine
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Author: Ex Pat Conn Content: Trick
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Author: @rqkeating Content: Looking forward to seeing more of these kind of videos to see all the fun stuff you guys are up to. Thanks!
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Author: @plymouthdie-castreplicas Content: What a great project! I like these classic trucks so much.
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Author: @cemeteryhill Content: Awesome refresh for a awesome truck! My nephew(18) has a project 85′ C10. Always encourage him to work on it.
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Author: @tacocin Content: Gee thanks for reminding me about how stupid I was to sell my 72 C-10! Great truck!
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Author: @gplipp6489 Content: Great vid. Love to see update work. Teal for a truck is pretty funky
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Author: @bruceh92 Content: C10’s are popular – anyone notice resales going up up?
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Author: @Brian.8272 Content: i just bought an 81 turbo trans am. 45k miles. mint condition, please do a show on upgrading the 301 v8 for some speed!!
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Author: @user-du7qq2ou2k Content: like all the way. i love C10s
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Author: @bretz71 Content: Like Farm Truck, but Park Truck!
VIDEO: Top Camaros Built at V8 Speed and Resto Shop
We’re big fans of first generation Camaros here at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. Today we’re taking a look at 5 of our favorite restomod First Gen Camaros built here in our shop, in no particular order.
First up is a 1969 Camaro named Lou’s Change. The goal for this car was to combine modern Camaro styling and performance with the classic look of the ‘69. Dan Steinhauser created the rendering, complete with a modern ZL-1 style hood with carbon fiber insert and a 3D printed grille.
We performed all the metalwork in-house, including fabrication of the custom hood, and installation of all new floors, quarter panels, tail panel, fenders, and more. Lou’s Change rides on a complete Detroit Speed suspension front and rear. Deep tubs were installed to accommodate the Toyo R888 tires wrapped around Forgeline wheels. The engine is a modified supercharged GM LSA 6.2L V8 making approximately 630 HP, backed by a 6-speed manual transmission. The car was sprayed in Mars Red, with a black ZL1 stripe. It was a feature car at the SEMA show, the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals, and in Hemmings Muscle Machines Magazine.
This ‘69 Camaro is owned by one of the best names in performance parts, COMP Cams! When it needed a refresh, we were honored that they sent it to us at the V8 Speed & Resto Shop. Upgrades include a Heidt’s front subframe and tubular suspension and rear 4-link system supporting the Currie rear axle. Power comes from is a Butler-LS built LS 454 making 690 HP, and a TCI 6X 6-speed automatic transmission shifts the gears. The interior features Distinctive Industries Touring II seats, Dakota Digital gauges, and Vintage Air A/C.
This next Camaro is another ‘69, but it’s an all-new car with nearly 100% aftermarket parts. We utilized a new Camaro shell, added some bigger wheel tubs, subframe connectors, and a complete Detroit Speed suspension system. Power comes from a MAST Motorsports LS7 based 427 topped with an LS9 supercharger making over 800 horsepower with a 6-speed manual transmission. Inside you’ll find a full leather and carbon fiber interior, with speedhut gauges, Vintage Air, and high-end audio in a custom dash. The color is Corvette ZR1 Jetstream blue, which really makes the polished trim and Forgeline wheels stand out.
The goal of the Reloaded Camaro was to create a modern version of the dealer supercars from the late 1960s, like the 427 Camaros built by Yenko and Nickey Chevrolet. The original front subframe was modified with a Detroit Speed coilover suspension, while a QUADRALink rear suspension was added for far better traction. While the body was being massaged to perfection, our friends at Fast Times Motorworks assembled a 490 cubic inch roller cam V8. The engine is super clean, with satin colors that compliment the exterior with no messy wires or hoses. The transmission is a TCI 4L80E automatic overdrive.
This one came to us with a stock suspension system, and a carbureted big block Chevy engine, but the owner wanted more… of everything. The first time the car was here we installed a whole Detroit Speed suspension system front and rear, and an EFI system on the big block Chevy. Bigger Baer brakes were added, and a new set of Forgeline wheels was custom made for the car. The handling and braking improvements were huge, but after a bit, the owner wanted the smooth power of a supercharged dry-sump LT4 engine, so the car came back to the V8 Speed & Resto Shop for round 2! Stock LT4s are powerful, but this one is making north of 750 HP with upgraded pulleys, valve springs, and injectors. Of course, we also build less radical Camaros, but we’re always looking to push the envelope of performance and creativity. What ideas do you have for your ideal Camaro? Contact us at www.v8speedshop.com today, we’d love to bring those ideas to life!
Author: Michael Clarke Content: Awesome examples of first gen F-bodies. I’ve been fortunate enough to see a few of these Camaros up close and the video doesn’t do them justice. They’re that good.
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Author: Plymouth Die-Cast Replicas Content: It’s great to hear Kevin’s commentary again! He has swallowed the dictionary. Awesome Camaros, guys! I love that blue ZR9. Absolutely wonderful machine.
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Author: Jason Hull Content: The true heart of muscle cars and hot rodding. These are absolutely stunning examples. The level of craftsmanship and detail is above top shelf. Another well deserved hat tip to that remarkable team ! And for the record 15 minutes is the perfect length video for the octane junkie’s lunch break ! Haha 🍻 🇺🇸💪👍
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Author: William Wright Content: You guys just do awesome work! I am beyond thrilled, to know my car is in good hands!
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Author: Paul M Content: Beautiful , I take the red one 😇. I would only want it without the supercharger as the naturally aspirated LS is plenty powerful and reliable for daily use. Great builds regardless
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Author: Primoz Krajcar Content: Those are some bad ass machines. Can you do a similar list on the Corvettes? Top Corvette builds and then go to top Dodge builds and top Mustang builds. I already envision a series here! 🙂
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Author: Lawrence Atwood Content: I am fortunate enough to “Drive it like I stole it!!” Thanks for the awesome work V8 Speed Shop Team!
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Author: Gary Keenan Content: Loose Change is a work of art past n present nicely done!!! Comp convertible is a powerhouse would be fun laying down some pavement black marks!!!
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Author: Heavy Pedal Garage Content: Pure awesome! Gotta love the F bodies! I’ve got a second gen firebird that I’m restomodding over on my channel. I dream of doing a first gen one of these days. Thanks for sharing such amazing cars in some really cool videos. Motivation and inspiration!
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Author: chisel83 Content: Awesome video guys. Happy holidays from south Australia 🇦🇺
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Author: Justin Opinion Content: You had me at “Camaros”… but then you had to go and make it an awesome video anyway!
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Author: Johnny Hot rod Content: Love your work If I ever hit the lottery you guys can do my 67-LT4 with a 6 speed my dream And fix all my bad gaps One can dream…
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Author: Calvin Cooley Content: As far as ideas go I have many! Lol that’s not to be confused with money! Here is one for the one with the stack. A modern Nomad-ish build using a base of one 78 to 87 Malibu wagon and some El Camino doors & glass. Maybe a Monte SS nose. Cut the B pillars, fab some jambs and …….El Mad! You get the picture I’m sure. You’re welcome.
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Author: Calvin Cooley Content: When the hammer falls so do the jaws.
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Author: Tom Wagner Content: Tesla eat you heart out
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Author: Bruce H. Content: “We used an all new body on this one”. Really, aftermarket?
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Author: HEY BERT 1984 Content: Cool 70 imp in the background at :21 what are you folks doing to that. I have a 70 myself that i ls3 swapped
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Author: Turbo Lives In my heart Content: Agh- I can’t breathe
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Author: Big Sexy Muthashutyomouth Content: Beautiful vehicles gentlemen! The ZR9 has to be my favorite one of all!!!!
The goal of this 1957 Ford Ranch Wagon build is to add modern car handling with barely-streetable power from a Ford 427 legendary Single Overhead Cam (SOHC) V8, all while keeping a stock (ish) sleeper appearance.
A Modern Twist on a Legendary Engine
The elements include a 700+ HP John Kaase built 540-cube SOHC engine, 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission, a Roadster Shop chassis and suspension, and great brakes. The wagon will ride on 17” steel wheels – or Halibrand kidney-bean style wheels, depending on the mood. The chassis will deliver a slightly lowered, but usable stance.
A Stock 1957 Ford Ranch Wagon. Or is it?
One of the goals of this custom hot rod 1957 Ford is to make it look unassuming. No racing bucket seats for this one, as it will feature the original style bench seat and steering column mounted shifter. The Ranch will wear an original Starmist Blue and Colonial White color scheme, with a coordinating restored interior. New Old Stock or restored original trim will be used in all the original and correct locations on the car. The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is handling the build, and it’s going to be an amazing ride!
Follow The Build
The V8 Speed and Resto Shop Team is chronicling the build of the 1957 Ford Ranch Wagon in thousands of photos and videos, and you can follow them all right here. And if you’re inspired, we encourage you to contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop to chat about your Classic or Muscle Car dream ride today!
This cool 1957 Ford Thunderbird came to the V8 Speed & Resto Shop in tribute to the owner’s Father who owned several of these cool Birds over the years. Today, we’re going to make this one more powerful and reliable for years of trouble-free cruising. The V8 Speed & Resto Shop team will be installing a custom chassis, complete with Wilwood brakes, coil-over shocks, and upgrade the sway bars for better handling. The ‘Bird will have far more Thunder thanks to a new Ford Racing 5.0 V8 cranking out 430 HP and over 400 lbs.-ft. of torque. Additionally, we’re installing a 6-speed automatic transmission spinning that steam back to a new 9″ rear axle. Upgraded audio and lighting will make it even more fun to drive. Follow along as we make the upgrades on this slick ’57 Thunderbird!
The V8 Speed & Resto Shop recently completed a modern 5.0 Coyote V8 swap into a 1972 Ford Bronco that was brought to us as a restored truck. Now, the restomod Bronco runs much stronger and is more reliable thanks to the Ford Performance 5.0 Coyote V8 engine swap and upgraded Dakota Digital Gauges. The V8 Speed and Resto Shop conversion also included installing a custom mandrel bent Magnaflow exhaust system and high-pressure fuel system to run the Coyote engine.
Now that the 2021 Ford Bronco has been revealed, it’s fun to show how early Ford Broncos can be retrofitted with modern Coyote V8 engines and technology to make the classic Ford Bronco perform like the new 2021 Bronco.
This 1939 LaSalle ambulance / hearse was originally commissioned in the town of Red Bud, IL… which happens to be the home of the V8 Speed & Resto Shop! We’re excited to change the color and tune up the appearance of this originally hand-built coach. Follow along with the photos to see the progress!
Deco Streamliner Styling
LaSalle was a notch below Cadillac, but offerend power and style beyond most contemporary automakers of the time.
Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!
This 1946 Ford Tudor street rod stands tall after a cosmetic restoration at the V8 Speed & Resto Shop! The car was already sitting on a Mustang II front suspension with a Chevy 350 and Turbo 350 transmission combination when it arrived at the V8 shop, and the owner was happy with how it drove. But he didn’t like the peeling black paint, the beat-up trim, and the rust around the edges. It was time to strip it and start fresh.
Down to the bare bones
Once the paint was stripped, it was obvious that the old Tudor needed some love in the metalwork department. The trunk floor was badly rusted, and the rear fenders were also rusted thin with pits. Nice 1946 Ford rear fenders are hard to find, so the V8 crew created new ones in the metal fabrication shop. Once TIG welded in, you can’t tell there were any repairs ever made. Similar treatment was done to the trunk floor.
A whole new look
The body shop crew took it from there, sanding the Tudor’s curves and prepping the body for paint. Once in the paint booth, the ‘46 was treated to multiple coats of Mercedes Graphite Metallic basecoat color and several layers of clear. We think the polished and replated trim looks dynamite against the subtle metallic silver color.
Inside, the seats, carpet, and headliner were reupholstered, and the dashboard chrome was restored adding a brilliance to the interior not found on modern cars.
The 350 was tuned up, Rocket Racing wheels were added, and this super clean ‘46 Ford is ready for another ¾ of a century of cruising fun.
We invite you to contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop for all your fabrication and paint needs, no matter how old your ride!
Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!
