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There’s something that’s just cool about a 1970 Chevy El Camino. They’re the closest we in the US ever got to what they call a “ute” in Australia, a crossover between a car and a truck. While some seem perplexed such a thing ever existed, we think it and the Ford Ranchero are such interesting creations. But what’s even better is when someone modifies one of these for extreme performance.
Check out the sleeper Chevy Chevelle Malibu a teenager built.
This one might not look all pretty and shiny, what with the matte gray finish, but the pin-on hood with the massive scoop signals there’s something going on there. And while it might not be what you think, this El Camino is definitely pushing serious performance.
You might assume that under the bulging hood is some massive blower, but there really isn’t. That’s not to say what’s hiding isn’t impressive, because the big block 498 is running a high 13:1 compression and has a solid roller cam as well as ported heads and an upgraded intake manifold. It’s making about 850-horsepower without any forced induction, just like God intended.
Backing that up is a Turbo 400 racing transmission and a GM 12-bolt rear with 3.73 gears. What’s really amazing is this guy is running the original disc brakes and no frame reinforcements.
The interior is mostly original, plus there’s a Bob Ross air freshener hanging from the rearview mirror. How cool is that? There is a Sparco steering wheel and a nice big tach, plus a few auxiliary gauges installed, plus a floor shifter, but that’s about all that’s been changed from the factory setup. It still has the lap belts – amazing.
Eventually, the plan is to make this El Camino look pretty. But we have to agree that the top priority should be performance. That seems to be coming along just fine, so perhaps a nice paint job isn’t too far off.
Images via Autotopia LA/YouTube
