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.
Design Details
The customer wanted a classic Z/28 look but with a few modern touches and better performance.
Details
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!
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!
Witness the breathtaking transformation of a barn-find 1973 Plymouth Duster 340 into a show-stopping masterpiece! Here, we delve deep into the meticulous restoration process at the V8 Speed and Resto Shop, where our mission was clear: elevate this classic Duster beyond its original glory while preserving its iconic spirit.
Our client entrusted us with his beloved, yet worn-out, Duster, seeking not just a repair, but a revival. We understand that every restoration is unique, and we pride ourselves on collaborating closely with our clients to bring their visions to life. Whether it’s a faithful stock restoration or a radical custom build, our team is equipped to exceed expectations.
What does a full restoration entail? It begins with understanding your dream. Is it cruising down country roads, dominating the drag strip, or winning prestigious shows? We believe in visualizing your “best day” with your car to guide our process.
Step 1: Disassembly and Documentation.
We meticulously documented every detail of the Duster’s condition upon arrival, capturing thousands of photographs and precise measurements using digital calipers. This ensured we understood the original factory specifications and identified areas for improvement.
Step 2: Bodywork and Metal Fabrication.
The Duster’s unibody construction demanded precision. We media-blasted the body, mounted it to a custom jig, and meticulously repaired rust damage, including the floors and quarter panels. Leveraging original collision repair data, we ensured the body was perfectly square and true. Our expert fabricators skillfully addressed the challenges of fitting reproduction panels, achieving panel gaps superior to the factory standards.
Step 3: Paint and Finish.
The original medium blue metallic was reimagined into a custom hue inspired by a Range Rover blue, infused with pearl and other proprietary techniques. This unique color, expertly applied by our painter, Jeff, radiates brilliance, especially when paired with the fresh chrome trim and white interior.
Step 4: Powertrain Enhancement.
The factory 340 engine, originally rated at 240 horsepower, received a significant performance upgrade. We installed a Comp Cams hydraulic roller camshaft, Edelbrock aluminum heads and intake manifold, a larger carburetor, MSD ignition, and a MagnaFlow 2.5-inch stainless steel mandrel-bent exhaust system. The result? A potent and exhilarating driving experience that far surpasses the original specifications.
Step 5: Chassis and Suspension Overhaul.
The entire underside was meticulously restored. We applied a durable bedliner coating for protection and ease of cleaning. All suspension components, including brakes, ball joints, bushings, and sway bar end links, were rebuilt or replaced. The rear axle was rebuilt with a new gear set, clutch, and limited-slip differential. This comprehensive overhaul ensures a smooth, precise, and enjoyable ride, maintaining the classic Duster feel with improved performance.
Step 6: Interior Transformation.
The interior underwent a dramatic transformation. The original bucket seats were stripped, recovered in bright white, and paired with matching door and side panels. Black carpeting and a fully detailed dashboard create a stunning contrast. The original rectangular gauge was replaced with a full set of Auto Meter gauges, and Vintage Air was added for enhanced comfort. A polished aluminum steering wheel, reminiscent of the original, completes the refined interior.
Step 7: Final Touches and Detailing.
The finishing touches included the iconic white 340 stripes, the rear graphic decal, and a set of meticulously restored Plymouth Rally wheels. The precision of the decal placement and the overall fit and finish highlight the attention to detail that defines our work.
Key Features and Upgrades:
Custom Blue Metallic Paint: A unique blend of Range Rover blue with added pearl and other enhancements.
Enhanced 340 Engine: Upgraded with Comp Cams, Edelbrock heads, and a MagnaFlow exhaust system.
Fully Rebuilt Suspension and Chassis: Ensuring a smooth and precise driving experience.
Luxurious White Interior: Featuring recovered seats, new door panels, and black carpeting.
Modernized Gauges and Comforts: Auto Meter gauges and Vintage Air for enhanced functionality and comfort.
Precision Bodywork and Panel Fit: Exceeding factory standards.
Iconic 340 Stripes and Rally Wheels: Preserving the classic Duster aesthetic.
Why Choose V8 Speed & Resto Shop?
Expert Craftsmanship: Our team of skilled professionals delivers unparalleled quality.
Comprehensive Services: From full restorations to custom builds, we handle it all.
Customer-Centric Approach: We work closely with you to bring your vision to life.
Attention to Detail: We meticulously document and execute every step of the restoration process.
Proven Track Record: Our portfolio showcases our commitment to excellence.
Don’t let your dream car remain a dream!
Whether you have a classic muscle car, a vintage gem, or a custom hot rod in mind, the V8 Speed and Resto Shop is here to help. Contact us today to discuss your project and turn your automotive dreams into reality.
817 S. MAIN STREET – RED BUD, IL 62278 – 314.783.8325
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.
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!
Come see a live recording of the V8 Radio Podcast this Friday, December 8, 2023 at the Performance Racing Industry Show in Indianapolis! We’ll be at the PRI Podcast Stage from 11:30 to 12:30 recording the next @V8 Radio Podcast, a special episode covering the PRI Show and previewing 2024 – the 20th anniversary of V8TV and the V8 Speed & Resto Shop!
The PRI Podcast Stage is right next to the food court, so we’ll be the entertainment for your Friday lunch at the show. We look forward to PRI 2023, we’ll see you there!
Well wouldya look at that! V8 Speed & Resto Shop‘s very own Kelle Oeste featured as a Select Committee member of the SEMA Hot Rod Industry Alliance (HRIA)! Kelle is very active in the industry and is quick to volunteer to help members and their families flourish in the automotive world, and in life. Congrats Kelle on the spotlight, we’re all very proud of you and appreciate all you do!
This deep black 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass SX Convertible is powered by a 455 Olds V8 and arrived at the V8 Speed & Resto Shop with a turbo 400 automatic transmission. These are exceedingly rare cars, with only 357 convertibles built in 1971! The owner wants to use this car often and make it a comfortable and reliable driver, but the Olds Rocket 455 V8 needed some help, so the V8 Speed and Resto Shop engine machine shop went to work.
Cranking It Up
The 455 had scored the crankshaft, and the block required more than just an overbore to create a perfect piston seal, so our engine machining team installed a new cylinder sleeve to repair the block. A replacement crankshaft was aquired, and the 455 short block was rebuilt with new bearings, pistons, rings, and converted to a COMP Cams hydraulic roller camshaft. The new displacement is 462 cubic inches, and it’s topped with Edelbrock aluminum cylinder heads and intake. Fueling the beast comes by way of a Holley Terminator EFI system, and the RPMs are kept in check with a 4-speed automatic overdrive transmission. However, the classic original appearance of the car and engine are maintained.
Follow along as we improve the drive ability of this rare and sharp 1971 Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme SX 455!
What Does Your Classic or Muscle Car Need?
Contact us for any restoration or performance upgrades you’re considering, we do it all in-house, from mechanical work, engine rebuilding, upholstery, rust repair and fabrication, body and paint work, and more!
Photos Of The Rocket 455 Build and Performance Upgrades
Or show starts off with Kevin Oeste and Mike “Q-Ball” Clarke sharing the story of his Kevin’s recent invite from Jimmy Shine and Billy Gibbons to be a guest at a recent ZZ Top concert! Kevin was super excited, and it only escalated when the topic shifts to recap the amazing new Hot Rod, Kustom, Street Machine, and Truck event called the Triple Crown of Rodding! Kevin, Kelle, and some of the V8 Speed & Resto Shop crew had an unbelievable time seeing some of the hottest cars in the country and hanging around with great friends and builders like Troy Trepanier, Alan Johnson, Gary Case, Chip Foose, Dave Kindig, Jesse Greening, Ken “Posies” Fenical, Roy Brizio, Mike & Jim Ring, Troy Ladd, Bobby Alloway, Phil and Jeremy Gerber, Johnathan Goolsby, and many more. While there, Kevin connected with Larry Erickson.. you know, the guy who designed CadZZilla… and his documentary project got a shot in the arm! It’s a heavy episode book-ended by Automotive Trivia and the usual nonsense, so we’re hope you’re fueled and ready for the V8 Radio Podcast!
This 1978 Pontiac Trans Am came to the V8 Speed & Resto Shop more like a lame duck than a bird of fire, so our team went to work adding new rear gears, a 2004R overdrive transmission, a roller cam from COMP Cams, and a FAST EZ-2.0 EFI system for better driving manners. The Pontiac 400 engine even received an unexpected refresh along the way. It’s not often to see a Pontiac 400 fuel injected engine, but this car keeps the Poncho power with modern touches.
We sell these parts and can install them on your classic or muscle car, just contact the V8 Speed & Resto Shop to talk to our technicians or to schedule your upgrades, transportation services are available.
Some of the parts used in this upgrade:
F.A.S.T. – EZ EFI 2.0 Fuel Injection System Royal Purple – Max ATF and Max Tuff Synthetic Assembly Lube B & M – Converter Lock-up Controller Tanks Inc – Fuel Tank, HP Fuel Pump and Sending Unit Shiftworks – Shifter Conversion Kit COMP Cams – Roller Cam, Roller Lifters, Push Rods and Roller Rockers Eastwood – High Temp Ceramic Engine Paint K&N – Air Filter
