V8 Speed & Resto’s 1976 El Camino

V8 Speed & Resto found this 1976 Chevrolet El Camino in good condition in Arizona. The coupe utility vehicle arrived with a low-compression 305 ci small-block V8 backed by a Turbo 350 three-speed automatic transmission and 10-bolt rear end. V8 Speed & Resto’s task was to rebuild the car with more power and better handling.

In the engine bay they swapped the tired 305 ci V8 for a 383 ci small-block V8 capable of 430 hp (316 kW). The new V8 features aluminum heads, roller camshaft, Hooker exhaust manifolds, and Holley Terminator X ECU. Behind that they installed a 4L80E four-speed automatic transmission. V8 Speed & Resto rebuilt the rear end with an Eaton Truetrac limited-slip differential and 3.73 ratio.

V8 Speed & Restro paired the upgraded powertrain with an updated suspension. In front they installed a QA1 Level 2 suspension kit. This included tubular upper and lower control arms, upgraded sway bar, adjustable coilovers, and Borgeson steering box with a 12.7:1 ratio. The rear suspension received QA1 adjustable arms and coilovers.

A set of Wilwood disc brakes replaced the factory units. In front are six-piston calipers with drilled/slotted rotors. The rear have four-piston calipers with drilled/slotted rotors. Covering those are Vision 55 Rally 18-inch wheels with Continental tires.

On the inside V8 Speed & Restro removed the front bench seat for a set of swivel bucket seats. They also installed Dakota Digital gauges, new carpet, and new seat belts. View more photos of the project in the build album.

Source: V8 Speed & Resto