Page 1 of 1
Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 1:03 pm
by Duck Vader
Really really really getting that muscle car itch again. Of course want to get a Chevelle, but debating on getting something cheaper to work on just to do some learning before I get a Chevelle. Pick up a welder, learn to fix some more things, learn more about restoration, restomodding, etc. on something cheap and easy that if I fuck up I won't be upset over. Even beater Chevelles are $ so been looking around.
Any suggestions? Keep in mind I have to fit inside.

Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 4:17 pm
by ChargerX3
I can sympathize with that itch at times. Whole reason i unearthed my 67 Charger.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 4:45 pm
by Jeff V.
Just start with a Chevelle. You'll be happier in the long run.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:04 pm
by ChargerX3
A bit of advise on old classics before you buy. Come to realize that you are seeking to own a vehicle that is over 50 years old, takes up more space than most current cars, has terrible gas mileage, leaks, has very old technology, requires very regular maintenance, and will be temperamental at times.
If none of those scare you then jump right on in.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:08 pm
by Jeff V.
takes up more space than most current cars, has terrible gas mileage, leaks, has very old technology, requires very regular maintenance, and will be temperamental at times.
Today I learned: My Hummer is just a younger classic car.

Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:30 pm
by Duck Vader
[quote=""Jeff V.""]Just start with a Chevelle. You'll be happier in the long run.[/quote]
My concern is learning on it and screwing it up. Lol. Wouldn't care if something else. Chevelle will be my baby.
[quote=""ChargerX3""]A bit of advise on old classics before you buy. Come to realize that you are seeking to own a vehicle that is over 50 years old, takes up more space than most current cars, has terrible gas mileage, leaks, has very old technology, requires very regular maintenance, and will be temperamental at times.
If none of those scare you then jump right on in.[/quote]
I'm well aware. It's going to be a toy/project that will be a weekend toy in nice weather. I'll modernize a lot of it but not everything. Chevelle will more than likely end up with a ls swap with modern electrics, 4l80e transmission, etc. But I fully expect that it will never be problem free.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:40 pm
by Jeff V.
What could you really, irreversibly screw up though? Get one with a clean and straight body, and then you won't have to worry about metal repair. If you want to teach yourself how to do cosmetic repair on something, buy a scrap panel from a junkyard and practice on that. Same for interior parts. As for the mechanical stuff, there's endless aftermarket options. You already mentioned restomod, so it doesn't sound like you want a numbers matching original time capsule. A mistake on something like an engine could be an expensive learning experience, but generally shouldn't hurt the body.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:45 pm
by Duck Vader
Need to get a truck before the chevelle though. Need to be able to tow it when in breaks down. Lol
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 5:47 pm
by aaronatstate
It's really pretty difficult to screw up an engine build honestly. Especially an LS, that's not going to making crazy power.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 6:41 pm
by ChargerX3
Good thing about the Chevelle is you will have a lot of parts availability.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 8:18 pm
by Chris GTO TT
Early 70s F250/F350 kill two birds with one stone

Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 8:24 pm
by Jeff V.
El Camino.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Tue Sep 13, 2022 8:25 pm
by Chris GTO TT
[quote=""ChargerX3""]A bit of advise on old classics before you buy. Come to realize that you are seeking to own a vehicle that is over 50 years old, takes up more space than most current cars, has terrible gas mileage, leaks, has very old technology, requires very regular maintenance, and will be temperamental at times.
If none of those scare you then jump right on in.[/quote]
IMO most people dont really want the classic car, they are loud, fairly slow (unless modded/restomodded), handle poorly, drive worse (again unless restomodded), and are generally just a pain in the ass. People say they want them but they really dont want them, they want the nostalgia.
I love my dads 70 F250, Ill get it when he passes and Ill keep it. I also know its a giant pain in the ass to drive and use as an actual vehicle. No power steering, drum brakes, terrible gearing, loud (road/wind noise), windows fog up when its below 50 or raining, etc.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 2:49 pm
by aaronatstate
[quote=""Jeff V.""]El Camino.[/quote]
He wants a Chevelle and a pickup. What better way to kill 2 birds with one stone then to just get a pickup that IS a Chevelle!
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 2:56 pm
by Duck Vader
I actually debated a few times but rather have chevelle
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 3:16 pm
by ChargerX3
I see him as more of a Ranchero kind of guy.

Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 3:22 pm
by Duck Vader
My grandpa had a Dodge Rampage. I learned to drive in it.
Re: Classic Muscle
Posted: Wed Sep 14, 2022 4:27 pm
by ChargerX3
Even better. 2.2 Turbo + no shit hauling capability.
Put some Brat seats in the back and you're golden.
