The 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Aero Coupe stands as a monument to the golden era of stock car racing aerodynamics. During the late eighties, manufacturers pushed body designs to their absolute limits to gain every possible advantage on the superspeedways. This particular chassis arrived at Last Lap Restorations as a rolling frame from the respected Jimmy Means Racing team. It eventually underwent a comprehensive refurbishment in 2000 to prepare for a second life in vintage racing circles. Draped in the legendary #17 Tide livery, the car looks like a time traveler from a 1980s starting grid. It represents a physical link to the high-banked battles that defined the sport for a generation of fans. This car is not a replica but a functional racing machine built to withstand the rigors of competitive track duty.
Mechanical Prowess and Shaver Racing Power
At the center of this 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Aero Coupe is a 358 cubic inch V8 engine. Built by Keith Chrisco at Shaver Racing Engines, this power plant provides the raw mechanical energy needed for victory. The motor features a single high-flow carburetor and braided stainless steel fuel lines for maximum reliability under load. Finned valve covers add a touch of professional flair to an engine bay focused entirely on performance. Power moves to the rear wheels via a rebuilt Jerico four-speed manual transmission, a staple in the racing world. This setup ensures that every horsepower reaches the pavement with minimal loss through the drivetrain. It is a loud, visceral, and uncompromising heart that beats with the rhythm of professional American stock car racing.
Safety Systems and Track Ready Components
Stepping inside the cabin reveals a workspace designed strictly for the serious driver and the demands of the track. A full roll cage provides the essential structural integrity required for high-speed vintage events across the West Coast. The driver sits in a fixed racing seat secured by a multi-point harness for total stability during cornering. To ensure safety, the car features a built-in fire-suppression system and a standard window net on the driver’s side. Stewart Warner and Auto Meter gauges provide critical data to the person behind the quick-release steering wheel. An hour meter on the dashboard shows just 83 hours of operation since the vehicle’s last major mechanical work. These details prove that the car is ready to transition from a collection directly back to the paddock.
Aerodynamic Styling and Exterior Details
The exterior of the 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Aero Coupe utilized a specialized sloped rear window to improve airflow. This design was crucial for stability at speeds exceeding two hundred miles per hour on the massive oval tracks. This example features authentic hood and trunk pins alongside a functional rear spoiler and lightweight Lexan windows. Chromed steel racing wheels measuring fifteen inches are wrapped in wide Goodyear Eagle slicks for maximum mechanical grip. Braking performance is managed by a four-wheel disc system capable of shedding heat during intense racing sessions. Notably, the dashboard carries the signature of Darrell Waltrip, who drove the car for parade laps at Sonoma. This historical connection adds immense value for collectors who appreciate the legends of the sport’s past.
The 358ci V8 engine produces significant output through its high-performance valvetrain and professional racing build from Shaver Engines. It works in tandem with a Jerico 4-speed manual transmission that was recently rebuilt to ensure smooth and reliable shifting. Four-wheel disc brakes provide the necessary stopping power to manage the heavy steel chassis on technical road courses. Goodyear Eagle racing slicks offer the contact patch required to put the engine’s torque down effectively coming out of corners. The aerodynamic bodywork of the Aero Coupe design helps maintain downforce and stability during high-speed drafting scenarios. Every mechanical component, from the stainless fuel lines to the Hurst shifter, is selected for its ability to perform under pressure. It is a cohesive racing package that delivers a truly authentic and unassisted driving experience on the track.
Summary of a Stock Car Survivor
This 1987 Chevrolet Monte Carlo Aero Coupe race car offers an incredibly rare opportunity for the dedicated motorsport enthusiast. It arrives with a letter of authenticity and documented history from its time in the Jimmy Means racing shop. The combination of the iconic Tide livery and Waltrip’s signature makes it a centerpiece for any racing-focused collection. With its Shaver-built engine and Jerico gearbox, it remains a potent tool for anyone participating in vintage racing leagues. The car has been maintained with an eye toward both historical accuracy and mechanical readiness for the track. It serves as a reminder of a time when racing was about steel, grit, and aerodynamic innovation. This Monte Carlo is ready to leave the garage and return to the high-revving world where it truly belongs.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
