When it comes to classic muscle cars, few models can compare to the iconic 1969 Chevrolet Chevelle. It’s a car that epitomizes the golden era of American muscle, and its timeless design and raw power continue to inspire car enthusiasts around the world.
One such enthusiast is Matt, the owner of a seriously badass 69 Chevelle that’s been modified to deliver an impressive 700 horsepower. But what sets Matt’s Chevelle apart from other muscle cars is the fact that it’s a one-family car. Matt’s grandparents bought it brand new, and it’s been in the family ever since.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Matt’s Chevelle, its history, and the modifications that have turned it into a true monster on the road.
Starting with a clean slate
When Matt acquired the Chevelle, it was a relatively clean car, thanks to his grandparents’ careful ownership. It was powered by a 307 engine, which Matt soon swapped out for a 454 engine. The 454 features a four and a quarter bore, a four-inch stroke crank, custom-built cylinder heads, and a Vitek injection system that looks like a modern LS engine.
With some tweaks by Tony, the engine now produces around 700 horsepower. Matt notes that the engine’s torque is impressive, thanks to the big cubic inch small block.
A true family car
Matt’s Chevelle has a unique history that sets it apart from other muscle cars. It was a family car that was passed down through the generations, and Matt plans to do the same. “Technically, legally, they’re still the original owner,” Matt says of his grandparents. “That’s why I’m able to sell it, because it’s a family car, and eventually I’ll give it to my son.”
But before that happens, Matt has transformed the car into a true showstopper. He’s made modifications to the suspension, adding QA1 coilovers, a four-link in the rear, and tubular arms in the front. The car was originally built for drag racing, so it’s not ideal for open tracks. Still, it’s capable of running low tens in the quarter-mile.
A labor of love
Matt did most of the work on his Chevelle himself, with some help from his friends. “I did the whole build myself, except for the trunk,” he says. “A buddy of mine owns a body shop, and he did that. He also helped me with some of the interior stuff.”
The trunk is a work of art, featuring wood paneling wrapped in carbon fiber vinyl. Matt installed two amps, one for two 12-inch W6 speakers, and another for four component speakers inside the car.
The interior is equally impressive, with seats from a 2017 Corvette Z06 and a modern Camaro molded into the car. Matt even shortened the top of the dash to make room for the engine cover.
A car that turns heads
Matt’s Chevelle is a head-turner, thanks to the meticulous attention to detail that he’s put into it. He’s shaved off tons of trim, cut the drip rail off, and shaved the windshield and rear window trim. He’s also removed the marker light and added carbon fiber to the center of the seat.
The car features 3-inch x-pipes with a Flowmaster and two and a half inches over the back. The exhaust pipes are tucked in neatly behind the car, and the forged lines have been painted in red clear coat.
In conclusion, Matt’s Chevelle is a true labor of love, a testament to his dedication and passion for classic muscle cars. It’s a car that he plans to pass down to
