Every great muscle car has a rebirth story, and the 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle by Classic Car Studio is pure transformation. This full build began as a stripped-down shell and emerged as a contemporary masterpiece that bridges vintage style with modern performance.
From Bare Metal to Brilliance
The Classic Car Studio team took this Chevelle down to raw steel, perfecting every contour before coating it in BASF Glasurit paint and clear. The deep red finish captures the light like molten glass, a tribute to the era’s bold colors but with a refined modern depth.
Engineering a Modern Muscle Car
Beneath the timeless body lies serious hardware. A GM Performance LS3 V8 engine delivers 525 horsepower, paired with a GM 4L75E transmission for smooth and responsive power delivery. The Roadster Shop Spec chassis provides precision handling, while a Ford 9-inch rear with 3.55 gears ensures traction meets torque.
Performance Without Compromise
This Chevelle’s mechanical core reads like a wish list. Wilwood 6-piston disc brakes provide the stopping force. A Vintage Air front runner system keeps things cool, while Holley’s Terminator X-Max manages the engine with race-grade precision. Even the custom exhaust , fitted with QTP Twintronic mufflers , can change its tone on command, from cruise to full aggression.
Design in Every Detail
Classic Car Studio’s build philosophy blends performance with art. The custom engine bay features polished metalwork and a bespoke air cleaner design. Schott “Fuel Concave” wheels , 19×8 up front and 20×12 at the rear , fill the arches with authority. Chrome work by Advanced Plating adds just enough shine to frame the car’s bold stance.
Napali Cherry Interior
Inside, the transformation continues. Recaro front buckets wrapped in “Napali Cherry” Relicate leather set the tone , sporty yet elegant. The cabin includes a Billet Specialties steering wheel with paddle shift, Dakota Digital gauges, an Ididit column with Touch ID start, and a Kicker audio system featuring dual 10-inch subs and amplifiers. Every component was chosen for function, feel, and presence.
Built to Drive and Display
This Chevelle isn’t just a showpiece. It’s a true driver’s car , one that blends 1960s character with 21st-century control. The chassis tuning, exhaust note, and instant power delivery make it as thrilling on the road as it is beautiful under the lights.
Summary
The 1966 Chevrolet Chevelle by Classic Car Studio stands as a modern reinterpretation of American muscle. What began as bare metal now roars with precision engineering and bold craftsmanship. With its LS3 heart, Napali Cherry soul, and flawless execution, this Chevelle proves that restoration can be rebirth , and perfection can have personality.
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Source: classiccarstudio.com
