While some enthusiasts prefer to keep cars as original and authentic as possible, others enjoy creating something special and unique that features more modern mechanical components and technology. This 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle would fall into the latter category, as it has been turned into a cool Restomod, with a fun surprise under the hood plus a few more notable goodies. Barn Finds reader Curvette spotted this one here on eBay in Youngstown, Ohio, and we’d like to thank him for sending us the tip! Although this appears to be one beautiful and desirable Chevy, the opening bid of $58,445 has yet to be placed.
Three of the supplied photos show this Chevelle on a trailer with the trim pieces off, but it looks as though any needed body work had already been completed, with the sheet metal resprayed. I can’t confirm this, but it may have been at this point that the car was turned over to Trackside Auto in Warren, Ohio, to take over, which has an impressive portfolio of creations shown on its website. It’s unknown what was under the hood before, but now the bay houses a modern LS3 engine, a mighty small block that was first introduced as the base engine for the Corvette in 2008. It makes 430 HP in bone-stock form, so no worries about this Chevelle being short on power!
After the removed body parts were put back on, it really brings out what a nice paint job has been done here. The grille features an SS emblem, and the fenders show 396 markings around the side lights, but it’s still a mystery if this one actually started out as a Super Sport or was originally equipped with a big block. That’s the beauty of a Restomod, as there are no specific rules that have to be followed and no wrongs, just rights, depending on what the builder desires.
This one also has an impressive interior, including bucket seats and a console, and the condition appears to be top-notch all around. One really fun update is the gauges, which are LED units that blend in well within the stock instrument panel openings. There seems to be a lot to be excited about regarding this 1968 Chevrolet Chevelle, and I’m curious if this one will get a bid or spark competition in the last moments before the gavel falls. All things considered, what’s a reasonable price to consider spending here?
Apparently these LS swaps aren’t as easy as led to believe.
They are as easy or has hard as the installer makes it. I have several friends that have done them, one had a shop specializing in low dollar swaps, the cost runs parallel to the level of complexity, largely depending on fuel system, wiring and parts selection (buying kits or piecing it together).
Steve R
This is an example of “needs a 4 (or 5, or even 6) speed.” Completely serious. This could be insanely fun.
This is a Chevelles 300. They did not come with a 396. Only a 2 dr SS hardtop came with it.
Though in ’69 they were available w/a 396….if so specified!
The engine transplant is very clean, but the air filter is in a terrible place. Way too much heat being suck back into the block. I would of went to the left side were it would be cooler near the headlamps and fender liner. I am surprised the builder didnt see it. Otherwise its a very nice ride. The price is fair for all the work done. Good luck to the seller. 🇺🇸🐻
Put a Coyote in it.
Don’t be ridiculous!!!!
Don’t ruin that motor by putting it in a chevy
I will always prefer taking a car back to original when possible. With that being said, I like whats been done but, I don’t think it’s worthy of wearing the SS 396 badges. Save them for a true original SS.
That mistake was corrected on the 300 series in 69. My brother bought one used with SS 396 and L78 4 speed in the early 70s. Good luck finding one now though, they’re scarce as hens teeth and many $$$ now!
Agree!