The Original Rocket V8!

This cool 1949 Oldsmobile is powered by the original 303 Rocket Oldsmobile V8, but is wearing a smooth custom look with a lowered stance, vintage green exterior, and fully a finished interior. The 1949 Oldsmobile joined Cadillac as the second American automaker to mass produce an overhead valve V8 engine, and this version remained in production until 1953.

Returning The Olds To The Road

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop team aims to make the car more enjoyable to drive all day long, installing power steering, air conditioning, disc brakes, cruise control, tilt wheel, and perhaps some seat upgrades as well. Fuel injection might be in the cards, we’ll post all the pictures and videos here so you can follow the progress of this unique resto-mod street rod… is that a “Street Mod?” Hmmm…

Follow The Upgrades

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop is ready to perform a stock and original restoration or build a high performance restomod just for you. Contact us anytime to chat about your project goals!

Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Logo

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

The Legendary Comp Cams Camaro: A 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Reborn

The 1969 Chevrolet Camaro is a timeless icon, celebrated for its versatility and enduring appeal. Whether built stock, as a race car, pro-touring machine, or full custom, a ’69 Camaro always turns heads. At V8 Speed and Resto Shop, one particular ’69 Camaro convertible, known as the Comp Cams Camaro, holds a special place due to its rich history and remarkable revival.

A Storied Past

The Comp Cams Camaro traces its roots to the 1970s and 1980s when Scooter Brothers, founder of Comp Cams, campaigned a white ’69 Camaro convertible in NHRA drag racing. That original car was sold, but years later, Brothers sought to recreate it. The result was a white Camaro with black stripes, powered by a NASCAR-spec SB2 small-block V8. This car became a legend, featured in Hot Rod magazine, showcased on the Hot Rod Power Tour, and displayed at countless events.

One memorable tale from its travels involves the Camaro nearly escaping its trailer during a Power Tour stop, fish-tailing down the road while hanging by its header flanges. Though it was saved, years of heavy use at public events took a toll, leaving the car worn out.

A Second Life

To celebrate Comp Cams’ 40th anniversary, V8 Speed and Resto Shop was tasked with restoring this iconic car. Known for building high-performance ’69 Camaro convertibles, including one for Royal Purple Synthetic Oil, our team was ready to bring the Comp Cams Camaro back to life. Comp Cams, a leader in valve train technology with brands like RHS, FAST, and TCI, wanted the car to showcase their cutting-edge products while remaining instantly recognizable.

The Build

The restoration began with a plan to preserve the car’s identity while enhancing its performance and appearance. The car, a real RS Camaro with hideaway headlights and low-mounted reverse lights, was originally Daytona Yellow but had been painted white. We retained the white base with black stripes, adding a red pinstripe matching the Comp Cams logo’s Pantone color for a subtle branding touch.

The body required minor repairs—rust patches in the floors, trunk, and quarter panels were addressed with precision to preserve the original shell. Suspension upgrades included a Heidts front subframe, tubular control arms, Wilwood brakes, CCW wheels, and a Ford 9-inch rear axle with Heidts four-link brackets for superior handling.

Under the hood, Butler Performance built a 454-cubic-inch LS engine using an RHS aluminum block, RHS cylinder heads, an LSXR intake manifold, and Comp Cams valvetrain components. A FAST XFI EFI system and EASY LS/TCU controllers manage the engine and TCI 6X six-speed automatic transmission, delivering 690 horsepower naturally aspirated, with a ZEX nitrous kit for extra punch. A custom aluminum air filter box, designed to fit the tight engine bay, ensures fresh air intake while adding a sleek look.

The interior blends classic and modern with houndstooth bucket seats, Dakota Digital gauges, a TCI shifter, and a Vintage Air Gen 4 AC system with electronic controls for a factory-like appearance. A reduced-diameter billet steering wheel and hand-bent stainless exhaust complete the package, giving the car a commanding presence.

The Result

The reborn Comp Cams Camaro is a masterpiece of performance and style, built to be driven hard and enjoyed for years. Delivered to Comp Cams, it made a flawless 4.5-hour drive to Memphis, and since then, it has racked up nearly 7,000 miles. The car has starred at SEMA, the Muscle Car and Corvette Nationals (scoring 997/1,000 points), the Rev’n Rods Tour, the Car Craft Pro Builder Shootout, and the Good Guys Top 50 ’69 Camaros display.

A Legacy That Endures

The Comp Cams Camaro is more than a car—it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and performance. Its journey from drag strip warrior to restored icon showcases the dedication of both Comp Cams and V8 Speed and Resto Shop. Check out the full build at v8speedshop.com or spot it at an event like the Hot Rod Power Tour. If you’re dreaming of reviving your own classic, we’d love to bring it to life!

Watch The Build Video!

Speaking Of Camaro Videos… Here’s A Few More Built at V8 Speed and Resto:

Let’s Build Yours!

Reach us anytime at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop to chat about reviving your dream car!

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Logo

V8 SPEED & RESTO SHOP

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

All The Photos

Sometimes it’s advantageous to take over a project than to start from scratch.   In this case, the customer wanted a cool ‘69 Camaro, and we happened to find him one that was already undergoing a restoration.   The owner of this clean Arizona car changed his mind and decided to sell his project, so we had the car shipped to the V8 Speed & Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL, where it transformed into the Pro-Touring Camaro the new owner has always wanted.     Features include a Holley Terminator EFI system, Vintage Air A/C, Scat seats, restoration parts from Classic Industries, Axalta paint, ARP engine hardware, COMP cam, and much more.   

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Resto Mod Built By V8 Speed and Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL

Design Details

The customer wanted a classic Z/28 look but with a few modern touches and better performance.

Details

1969 Chevrolet Camaro Resto Mod Built By V8 Speed and Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL

Interior Upgrades

Build Photos

The Video Tells The Story

 

 

 

Let’s Build Yours!

Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!

 

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Logo

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

Reconnecting The Owner With His Favorite Car

So many of us live with the regret of selling a favorite car. The story of a growing family and the limitations of hauling kids in a 2-door coupe is a pretty common tale that often ended in that prized coupe heading down the road with a new owner in favor of a bonafide family truckster. This was the case with a particular family man and his beloved 1977 Buick Regal. Had it, sold it, missed it. Until, that is, many years later when his now-grown son reached out to the V8 Speed and Resto Shop to replace the one that got away! One fun element was that the owner’s family owns the local Red Bud IGA Grocery Store across the street from our shop!

Finding A Unicorn

The car in question… a red 1977 Buick Regal, was unfortunately wrecked after the sale. The owner’s son approached our team to help locate and revitalize another red ’77… have you seen one of these driving around lately? A car that once seemed ubiquitous on the streets of America had seemed to be erased from time. Thankfully, a multi-sided search concluded when the owner’s son called and said “I found one, and am sending it to your shop to make it as close to Dad’s as possible!”

From The Owner: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – “These folks do incredible work ! My 1977 Buick Regal was fully restored by this team and the job ( especially the white leather interior) was done to perfection ! I highly recommend this company if you want superior quality. Respectfully, T.J. Norrenberns Owner TJC Markets INC.”

It Had To Be Right

The original car wasn’t just any ’77 Buick, however. It was red with a white interior, bucket seats, floor shifter, T-tops, white vinyl top, and the V2.0 car had to be the same. Amazingly, the car the son found was also red with T-tops and buckets, but the interior was red cloth. Not gonna happen. That’s when the V8 Speed and Resto Shop Interior Shop sprung into action turning the red to white.

Taking the Interior Up a Notch

Changing the interior color sounds simple, but there were dozens of red plastic parts that needed to be color-matched to white, along with the headliner, rear package shelf, door panels, and the seat upholstery. It turns out that brilliant white seat covers are not falling off the shelves at the local parts store, so our team had to make them from scratch. New patterns were created, and piece by piece the seat covers, both for the front buckets and the rear full-width seat were sewn. New filler material was added to the frames before the covers were stretched over and cinched to perfection. The end result? A gleaming, bright white interior that is nicer than any done by Buick in 1977.

See The Surprise Reveal Video!

The Reveal

The best part of this story is how the customer’s son staged a suprise reveal for his Dad at the 30th anniversary of the family’s business, an IGA Grocery Store in Red Bud, IL. They had a huge party to thank their staff, customers, vendors, and the community for their support of the store over the years. The big surprise came after the ceremony when the son presented his Dad with the keys to the freshly updated Regal, and it was a magic moment! We were so happy for the family to be able to reconnect their Dad to some of the best times of his life through his prized Buick… and that’s the V8 Speed and Resto Shop mission statement in action!

The 1977 Buick Regal story as told in the V8 Radio Podcast, click to listen!

1977 Buick Regal S/R Update Photos

Contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with all your Classic or Muscle Car needs today!

 

V8 Speed and Resto Shop Logo

817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278

THIS PROJECT FEATURES:

Restored 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible Frame

FRAME OFF RESTORATION

CUSTOM FIREWALL

1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Convertible Restoration at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop

CUSTOM PAINT

A Trusted Companion Since 1973

The Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme is a mid-range car produced by General Motors for those seeking comfortable, reliable, and stylish vehicles. The Cutlass Supreme was the fanciest version of the Cutlass you could buy, and the 1971 convertible is one of 10,255 built that year.

The owner of this particular car purchased it in 1973 and has driven and enjoyed it ever since. However, over time, the car started to show its age, so he called the V8 Speed and Resto Shop to restore it.

Tearing Down To Build Back Up

The team at V8 Speed and Resto Shop began by media blasting the chassis to remove all the rust and corrosion, and then powder coated it in a black finish similar to the original paint. They also replaced the original suspension parts with tubular control arms and billet coil-over shocks from QA1, and a Borgeson steering gear for better road feel and steering performance.

The body was stripped in search of rust and damage, and any rust holes were repaired with new steel. The team also repaired the bottom of the door shell to replace some rust holes. Their mission was to use as much of the original GM steel as possible on this car to keep it as authentic as possible.

Renewing The Driveline

The original Olds 350 V8 engine was also given a refresh. The engine was disassembled, cleaned, measured, and remachined, and new rod and main bearings, pistons, rings, gaskets, and all new ARP hardware were installed. A COMP hydraulic roller camshaft conversion was installed, which not only added a cam profile designed to increase the engine’s torque output, but also uses roller lifters to reduce friction and the risk of the cam going flat. Once it was all assembled, the engine was topped with an aluminum intake manifold and a Holley Terminator X electronic fuel injection system for increased reliability.

Vibrant Green Once Again

The body was then painted in its original code 43 Lime Green Metallic color, and the team carefully re-mounted the body panels, making sure nothing got bumped or chipped in the process. Once installed, all the exterior surfaces were sanded once again in preparation for sealer and the color and clear application.

After a couple months of curing time, the paint team started the wetsanding and buffing process on the paint to further flatten the surface and bring out the gloss. The restored trim, lettering, and badges were then carefully installed.

New Upholstery And Bright Spoked Wheels

The interior was renewed, with the seats, door panels, rear side panels, dash pad, sun visors, carpet, and more being rebuilt or replaced. A new A/C system from Vintage Air was installed, and the dashboard and firewall were bodyworked and painted satin black.

The convertible top mechanism and hydraulics were also restored, and a new white convertible top was installed. The car also got a set of custom made Dayton chrome spoked wheels with white pinstriped tires.

The original gauges were restored and updated with LED lights, and a quartz conversion was installed to keep the original clock hands spinning smoothly. A Vintage Air control panel matches the original brushed aluminum design, and a Retro Sound radio provides modern tunes for the ride.

The car was finally finished and returned to the owner, who was thrilled with the results. The car is now in better-than-new condition, and the owner is excited to make new memories with it.

What Can We Restore For You?

The V8 Speed and Resto Shop team stands ready to turn the clock back on whatever you drive, restoring it authentically or adding modern performance and convenience features as you wish. Contact the shop today to learn more.

BUILD PHOTOS:

This ’65 C10 doesn’t just look cool… check out the factory air conditioning (more in video!)


This stunning 1965 Chevrolet C10 pickup truck isn’t your average classic! This beauty boasts a powerful 350 V8 engine, automatic transmission, AND factory-installed air conditioning – a rare option in these early C10s. Check out the unique center dash vents that kept this truck cool back in the day.

Looking for a classic car or truck restoration shop that can handle the unique features of your vehicle? Look no further than the V8 Speed & Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL! Our team of experts is passionate about preserving the history of classic cars and trucks, with the knowledge and skills to tackle any project, from routine maintenance to full restorations.

In this video, we take a closer look at this special 1965 C10, showcasing its features and the restoration work performed by V8 Speed & Resto Shop. See how we carefully looked after this classic truck, ensuring it continues to turn heads for years to come!

Learn more about this special truck in the video!


Want your classic car or truck to be next? Contact V8 Speed & Resto Shop today!

The V8 Speed & Resto Shop is a full-service classic car and muscle car restoration service ready to perform everything from simple maintenance on vintage cars to full frame-off restorations and modifications. Whether you are seeking a stock restoration, a pro-touring muscle car, or a custom restomod, the V8 Speed & Resto Shop in Red Bud, IL, can help. Contact us today to put the V8 crew to work for you. Transport services are available.

V8 Speed & Resto Shop
817 S. Main Street
Red Bud,IL 62278
314.783.8325

https://www.v8speedshop.com
Email: resto@v8speedshop.com

#c10 #restoration #v8speedshop

Welcome to the premiere episode of Hammer Down!

This episode of Hammer Down hosted by Kevin Oeste features a great lineup of Hot Rod Industry personalities, including HRIA Chair and HushMat & ZyCoat Owner Tim McCarthy, Pete and Jake’s Owner Jerry Slover, and South City Rod and Custom owner Bill Ganahl.    Tune in as they: 

  • Dive deep into the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA), its mission, and its impact on the hobby we love.  
  • Offer invaluable insights and tips for Hot Rod business owners, helping them navigate the ever-evolving landscape.
  • Revisit legendary cars that have left an indelible mark on the industry, like the iconic California Kid.

… And share some laughs and great stories along the way! 

Whether you’re a seasoned gearhead or just starting your professional  Hot Rod journey, Hammer Down delivers informative and entertaining discussion that celebrates the passion, ingenuity, and enduring legacy of the Hot Rod community and how the SEMA HRIA aims to help Hot Rod businesses succeed.    

So buckle up, rev your engines, and join us on this thrilling ride through the world of hot rodding.   Welcome to Hammer Down. 

https://www.sema.org/hria

Listen and subscribe here or wherever you stream your podcasts!

#SEMA #HRIA #HotRodIndustry

This stunning 1967 Ford Mustang Fastback isn’t your average classic muscle car.

Packing a supercharged 5.4-liter V8 engine from a 2008 Shelby GT500, this restomod is a force to be reckoned with on the road and the track.

Power and Performance Under the Hood

The heart of this beast is the iconic 5.4-liter Shelby GT500 V8 engine, pushing out over 500 horsepower. Paired with a T56 6-speed transmission, this Mustang is built for exhilarating performance.

Check Out The Video!

Upgraded Suspension and Brakes for Precision Handling

For superior handling, the suspension system has been completely revamped with Ridetech tubular components and coilover shocks. Four-corner Baer disc brakes provide exceptional stopping power, while American Racing 200S “Daisy” wheels add a touch of classic muscle car style.

Luxurious Interior with Modern Touches

Step inside the Fastback and you’ll find a custom-crafted interior featuring plush leather-wrapped seats and a custom console. The classic dashboard gets a modern upgrade with Autometer gauges, keeping the driver informed and in control.

Vinyl Wrap Protects the Show-Stopping Finish

One of the most unique features of this Mustang is its exterior. Believe it or not, that stunning finish isn’t paint! The entire car is wrapped in a high-quality vinyl film. This clever choice protects the owner’s investment, allowing them to enjoy pushing this Mustang to its limits on the track without worrying about scratches or damage.

Looking for Classic Car Restoration or Customization?

The V8 Speed & Resto Shop is your one-stop shop for all things classic and muscle car. They offer a full range of services, from routine maintenance to complete frame-off restorations and custom builds. Whether you’re looking to preserve a piece of automotive history or create a one-of-a-kind restomod like this stunning 1967 Mustang, the V8 Speed & Resto Shop has the expertise and passion to bring your vision to life.

Contact The V8 Speed & Resto Shop Today

Let the crew at V8 Speed & Resto Shop turn your dream classic car into reality. Visit their website at https://v8speedshop.com/ or call them at 314-783-8325.

Don’t forget to follow V8 Speed & Resto Shop on social media!

#Mustang #V8SpeedShop #Fastback

Enjoy the photo gallery on this Supercharged Restomod Mustang!

Do you dream of a classic muscle car with heart-pounding power and modern handling? Look no further than the V8 Speed and Resto Shop! We bring your vision to life, combining iconic style with cutting-edge performance upgrades.

This stunning 1968 Chevrolet Camaro is a prime example. The owner craved the perfect blend of timeless looks and exhilarating performance. V8 Speed and Resto Shop delivered:

  • Supercharged LSA Engine: Unleash raw power with this modern high-performance engine, expertly installed without compromising the Camaro’s fresh as-delivered paint job.
  • Tremec 6060 6-Speed Manual Transmission: Take control of every gear change with this precision-engineered transmission, engineered to seamlessly integrate with the LSA engine.
  • Performance Cooling and Electrical Systems: Experience worry-free driving with upgraded systems designed to handle the increased power and ensure smooth operation.

Performance Engineered: We’ve meticulously integrated additional performance enhancements:

  • C&R Radiator and Coolers: Maintain optimal engine temperature for peak performance, on the road or at the track.
  • Vintage Air System: Enjoy cool comfort in the cabin, even on the hottest days.
  • Ridetech Coil-Over Suspension System: Experience exceptional handling and control with this top-of-the-line suspension upgrade.
  • Hydraulically Boosted Wilwood Brakes: Command ultimate stopping power with confidence, inspired by racing technology.
  • FORGELINE Wheels: Track-proven strength, great looks for the street, and American made.
  • Custom Exhaust System: Our team handcrafts a beautiful mandrel-bent, TIG welded stainless exhaust system with cutouts and Corsal mufflers that delivers both performance and a throaty growl.

The V8 team’s dedication goes beyond the ordinary:

  • Expert Modifications: We meticulously notched the subframe and fabricated a custom firewall and air intake system to ensure perfect fitment and functionality.
  • Custom style with Performance: Ringbrothers billet hood hinges and an in-house fabricated hood ensure a unique look while accommodating the supercharger.
  • Dyno-Tuned Results: Refined driving manners with measured power.

This is just a glimpse of what V8 Speed and Resto Shop can do for your muscle car. Let our passionate team transform your dream into reality. Contact us today to discuss your custom build! Check out the 3 1968 LSA Camaro build videos below!

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Classic Muscle Gets a Modern Makeover at V8 Speed and Resto Shop

This stunning 1968 Oldsmobile Cutlass 442 tribute isn’t just a beautiful recreation of a legendary muscle car; it’s a testament to the expert craftsmanship and innovative approach of the V8 Speed and Resto Shop. While not a numbers-matching W30 car, it captures the iconic look and feel of the era while incorporating modern upgrades for enhanced performance and drivability.

A Meticulous Restoration with Modern Performance Enhancements

The car boasts a meticulous restoration, showcasing the timeless design of the 1968 Cutlass 442. But beneath the classic exterior lies a heart that pumps with modern muscle. V8 Speed and Resto Shop equipped the car with a GM LSA supercharged 6.2L V8 engine, a perfect blend of raw power and contemporary technology. This powerhouse is paired with a 4L85E overdrive transmission, ensuring smooth gear changes and effortless cruising on those long journeys.

Beyond the Engine: A Symphony of Performance Upgrades

The upgrades extend far beyond the engine. 17″ American Racing wheels add a touch of modern aggression, while Wilwood brakes with a Hydratech hydraulic brake assist unit provide confidence-inspiring stopping power. Handling is further enhanced with Hotchkis control arms and sway bars, keeping this classic beauty planted firmly on the road.

A Collaborative Effort: Bringing Your Dream Classic to Life

This 1968 Cutlass 442 tribute is a prime example of the V8 Speed and Resto Shop’s dedication to preserving automotive history while infusing it with modern advancements. It’s a car built to be driven, enjoyed, and admired – a true testament to the passion and expertise that lies at the heart of this renowned restoration shop.

If you’re looking to breathe new life into your own classic car, we’re happy to help at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop! Our team of passionate experts possesses the knowledge and skills to create a personalized masterpiece that reflects your vision and driving desires.