The Challenge

Build a hard-core clone of the '69 SS 396 Chevelle that Fred bought new in 1969. As you can guess, it's going to pack a lot more cubes, power and gears than the original, but at a glance, you'll be hard at telling them apart. And yes, Fred still owns the '69 Chevelle he bought when it was new. What's almost as amazing is that he's been working on the clone plan foe decades, having bought the "other" '69 back in the '80s with the intention way back then to create a double-trouble duo.

What We Did

Knowing a good thing when we see it, we slid a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis under the Chevelle which give is more rigidity and provides a solid platform to cradle, mount and bolt everything else to. We nestled a GM SSLT5 crate motor in the engine bay and backed it with a GM 10 speed automatic; custom 19" wheels mimic the factory SS 5-spoke styled-steelies and big Baer brakes help bring everything to a halt. Inside, we reshaped seats from a modern-day GTO up front and added a custom made seat in the rear, beyond that, the interior was kept looking relatively stock, save for additional creature comforts like power windows, locks, A/C and cruise. Body mods were also kept subtle with the addition of LT5 engine call-out badges and a beautifully sculpted hood that features the classic SS Chevelle cowls but with more curves.

What We Achieved

Putting them side-by-side, it's easy to tell it's mission accomplished. If you're looking for the mods, you might see them, but otherwise it looks like a nicely restored '69 Chevelle. Step on the loud-pedal though, and you'll quickly find 755 ways this Chevelle distinguishes itself from it's twin. The same holds true when you bend it into a turn, stand on the brakes, or just cruise it on an open road or crowded street. Pedigree and power, this Chevelle has it all.