This deep blue 1977 Chevrolet Corvette came to the V8 Speed and Resto Shop for a new driveline including an LS3 V8, a Tremec TKX 5-Speed manual transmission, and more. These Corvettes look cool and handle well, but the often anaemic, low-compression “smog motors” from the mid 1970s leave much to be desired in the performance department. The V8 Speed and Resto Shop installed a Chevrolet Performance LS3 430 HP crate engine and the Tremec TKX 5-Speed transmission from Modern Driveline designed for high RPM shifting. Dakota Digital RTX gauges provide the driver with the vitals without looking like an add-on. Other suspension upgrades, new wheels, tires, and brakes, sidepipes, and a complete interior restoration by V8 Speed and Resto all add up to a great looking and performing Corvette. If you didn’t think you were a fan of mid 1970’s Corvettes… you are now!

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 an 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.

LS3 + TKO = Way More Fun!

The nearly 500 HP all-aluminum LS3 V8 engine provides modern and reliable power while saving weight and eliminating old-design leaks. A Tremec TKx 5-speed transmission 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.

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!