The 1965 Chevrolet C10 known as Gray Area is much more than a standard restoration of a classic American workhorse. This project, completed by Simon Performance Technology, pushes the boundaries of what a Fleetside pickup can achieve in the modern era. Visualizing this truck requires looking past the traditional sixties lines to see a machine designed for pure mechanical intimidation. A striking two-tone finish of satin gray and gloss black highlights the shaved bodywork and aggressive custom grille. The truck sits so low on its air suspension that the lower valance and rockers appear to merge with the pavement. Making its grand debut at the Goodguys 2025 Del Mar Nationals, it immediately established itself as a benchmark for custom engineering. It is a cohesive blend of high-end racing hardware and sophisticated design that commands attention from every angle.
Advanced Chassis Engineering and Slammed Stance
The foundation of this 1965 Chevrolet C10 is a specialized Porterbuilt Fab chassis that provides the strength for its massive power. An AccuAir E-Level management system allows the driver to adjust the ride height with incredible precision on the fly. This setup enables the truck to tuck its 20 inch Forgiato wheels deep into the custom-fabricated tubs. The front control arms and rear trailing arms are finished in a vibrant blue, creating a sharp contrast against the gray undercarriage. Rack-and-pinion steering has been integrated to ensure the truck handles with the responsiveness of a modern sports car. Stainless-steel hard lines throughout the frame reflect the meticulous attention to detail involved in the multi-year assembly process. It is a chassis built to handle the immense torque of a twin-turbocharged V8 while maintaining a smooth cruising quality.
Aggressive Forced Induction and Engine Details
Protruding through the louvered hood are two Nelson Racing Mirror Image turbochargers that serve as the crown jewels of the engine bay. These turbos feed a 6.3-liter V8 engine built with a SCAT billet crankshaft and Air Flow Research cylinder heads. A Holley Dominator EFI system manages the fuel delivery, while a 417 Motorsports air-to-water intercooler keeps the intake charge chilled. For an extra burst of speed, a Nitrous Express system is neatly integrated into the high-performance plumbing of the motor. The engine exhales through custom ports cut directly into the sides of the cargo bed ahead of the rear wheels. This side-exit exhaust setup provides a raw, mechanical soundtrack that perfectly matches the truck’s industrial appearance. Every component under the hood was selected for both its aesthetic appeal and its ability to withstand extreme performance levels.
Innovative Bodywork and Functional Custom Bed
The exterior of the 1965 Chevrolet C10 features a completely shaved body, removing handles and trim for a seamless, ultra-modern look. A custom rear roll pan and recessed license plate box further clean up the rear profile of the Fleetside body. One of the most unique features is the electric actuator that raises the entire cargo bed floor for display purposes. This reveals the intricate rear suspension components and the kicked-up frame rails that allow for the extreme drop. Gloss black accents on the roof and front bumper provide a visual anchor for the lighter satin gray main body color. Electric door poppers allow for easy entry while keeping the sides of the truck completely smooth to the touch. These modifications turn a utilitarian truck into a functional work of art that challenges traditional custom car norms.
Performance Specifications and Drivetrain Strength
Power is routed through a built 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission designed to handle the high horsepower output of the 6.3L engine. A billet torque converter ensures efficient power transfer to the 12-bolt rear end which features a locking differential for maximum traction. Stopping power is provided by a comprehensive Wilwood disc brake system with six-piston calipers and drilled-and-slotted rotors. 20 inch Forgiato Concavo wheels are wrapped in high-performance Kumho tires that provide the necessary grip for the street. Inside the cab, a B&M shifter and Holley EFI digital gauges keep the driver informed of every vital engine metric. The 6.3-liter V8 delivers relentless acceleration that is easily managed by the heavy-duty drivetrain components chosen for this build. With only 69 miles on the odometer since completion, the entire mechanical package is essentially brand new and show-ready.
Summary of a Show Winning Masterpiece
This 1965 Chevrolet C10 represents the absolute pinnacle of current custom truck trends and high-performance engineering. It successfully integrates a massive twin-turbocharged V8 into a classic frame that has been modernized with a Porterbuilt chassis. The visual impact of the satin gray paint and the aggressive stance makes it a standout at any automotive event. Inside and out, the truck features the latest in automotive technology, from Holley EFI to AccuAir suspension management. Having already proven its worth at the Goodguys Nationals, it is a vehicle with a verified pedigree of excellence. For the collector who demands a truck with equal parts power, presence, and precision, Gray Area is the ultimate choice. It is a testament to the creativity and skill found in the elite levels of the California custom scene.
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Source: bringatrailer.com
