Random Car Wednesday: 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS

I really like the mentality behind pro-touring cars. Take all of the best equipment available today, and put it in the best-looking cars of the past. The end result is a classic car that can keep pace with a brand-new sports car. Muscle cars are the most common candidates for pro-touring conversions, mostly because people like the idea of a muscle car that can handle corners. Today's RCW, a beautiful 1970 Chevelle, is a killer example of pro-touring done right. In many ways, there aren't a lot of huge visual changes. The bodywork remains intact, with no crazy spoilers or LEDs to be found. It does, however, sit lower to the ground, on large aftermarket wheels and tires. This is evidence of some serious suspension work, designed to make a 44-year-old slab of American iron into a bona fide corner carver. Moreover, some tremendous Wilwood brakes are also visible, which means that stopping ability has also been upgraded. Thus, you have a muscle car that can corner. However, the modifications don't end there. A glance at the badging that indicates engine displacement tells us the owner wanted more speed, too. An original Chevelle SS would likely be equipped with a 396 or 454 V8. Maximum horsepower was the LS6 454, with 450 horsepower on tap. This car, though, boasts a 502 cubic inch crate motor from GM, which can be had with up to 600 horsepower, depending on the exact specifications. That's a lot of power to have under your right foot, and ample justification for the car's roll bar. All things considered, this is a phenomenal car. It still has all the charm and beauty of a 1970 Chevelle, but with all of the performance and capability of a modern car. Quite simply, it's the best of both worlds.

1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS