If you’re a fan of classic American muscle cars, you’re going to love this 1972 Chevelle. Owned by Alex, this “little” Chevelle is anything but ordinary. With its LS3 engine, ported heads, and BTR stage four cam, this car is capable of putting out 600 horsepower at the wheels. But that’s not all – this car has been completely upgraded and modified to make it a true restomod.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Alex’s 1972 Chevelle and all of the modifications he’s made to turn it into the ultimate street machine.
The Raider Nation Chevelle
The first thing you’ll notice about this Chevelle is the stunning color combination. The silver paint really sets it off, and the black racing stripes give it a bold, aggressive look. But what really stands out is the Raider Nation theme – a nod to Alex’s favorite football team, the Oakland Raiders.
Upgrades and Modifications
Under the hood, this car is a true powerhouse. The LS3 engine has been upgraded with ported heads and a BTR stage four cam, giving it an impressive 600 horsepower at the wheels. To help put all of that power to the ground, Alex has installed a TR 6060 six-speed manual transmission and 390 gears in the rear end
But the engine is just the beginning. Alex has made a number of upgrades and modifications to this car to make it a true restomod.
Suspension
The suspension has been completely upgraded with a full BMR tubular suspension system. While most restomods go with coilovers, Alex wanted to stick with the traditional setup. He installed Bilstein shocks in the front and rear, which provide a comfortable ride while still delivering impressive performance.
Brakes
The braking system has also been upgraded, with all-wheel disc brakes from Wilwood. The master cylinder features six pistons in the front and four pistons in the rear, providing excellent stopping power.
Wheels and Tires
To complete the look, Alex went with a set of one-off three-piece wheels from Divide Wheels. The front wheels are 19×9 inches with 255-width tires, while the rear wheels are 20×11 inches with 305-width tires. These tires provide excellent grip and traction, while the line lock and two-step system allow Alex to do some serious burnouts.
Exhaust
The exhaust system features Hooker Blackheart headers and Borla Attack mufflers, which provide a deep, aggressive tone. The blacked-out emblems and LED lighting add to the overall aesthetic of the car.
Interior
Alex has taken a mostly original approach to the interior of his car, preserving its authentic charm. While the door panels remain in their original form, he has made a few strategic upgrades to enhance both comfort and functionality. One notable change is the installation of new seats, which provide improved support and comfort compared to the original ones. This modification ensures a more enjoyable driving experience, especially during long journeys or spirited drives.
In addition to the seating upgrade, Alex has incorporated modern technology into the interior. One notable addition is the Dakota Digital gauge cluster, which replaces the factory gauges with a digital display. This not only adds a touch of contemporary style to the cockpit but also provides accurate and easy-to-read information about the car’s vital functions. The digital display allows Alex to monitor various parameters, such as speed, RPM, fuel level, and engine temperature, all in one centralized location.
Furthermore, Alex has taken steps to enhance nighttime visibility by upgrading the headlights. He has chosen Dapper Lighting headlights, which offer improved illumination and clarity during nighttime driving. These headlights not only provide better visibility on dark roads but also add a touch of modern sophistication to the car’s exterior aesthetics. With these enhancements, Alex can confidently navigate the roads at night, ensuring a safer and more enjoyable driving experience.
Overall, while maintaining the originality of the interior, Alex has selectively made upgrades to enhance both comfort and functionality. The addition of new seats ensures a more comfortable driving experience, while the Dakota Digital gauge cluster and Dapper Lighting headlights bring modern conveniences and improved visibility to the car. These thoughtful modifications strike a balance between preserving the car’s authentic appeal and incorporating modern enhancements that enhance the overall driving experience.
Conclusion
Alex’s Raider Nation 1972 Chevelle restomod is a true masterpiece of American muscle. With its LS3 engine, upgraded suspension, and all-wheel disc brakes, this car is capable of delivering an incredible driving experience. But what really sets it apart is the attention to detail and the Raider Nation theme. This car is a true reflection of Alex’s passion for classic muscle cars and his love of the Oakland Raiders.
