This site is dedicated to the restoration and preservation of 1960's and '70's Musclecars. I will answer any and all questions about what is original, and what are "Period Correct" modifications. I will also post my personal opinion about what is and is not proper. People are encouraged to debate me or share their own opinions or experiences.
Sunday, August 24, 2014
"X" might just mark the spot.....
If your looking for a cheap hot rod one that's often overlooked are the GM "X" bodies. I know '68-72 Novas have a "cult" following, but the others are largely overlooked. 1971-77 Pontiac Venturas, 1973-79 Olds Omegas and Buick Apollos can be bought dirt cheap. What makes them a great base for a street machine is the subframe and suspensions are the same as the "F" bodies. That means any factory or aftermarket suspension or brake upgrades that fit a Camaro / Firebird will fit these cars. You can build a "G" machine that corners like a Trans-Am or a Corvette, or a drag racer that will pull the front wheels on launch. The other great thing is the engine bays will accept any GM engine. The Pontiacs are the king sleepers-Pontiac engines are externally identical from a 326 to a 455. That means a 400 or 455 will literally bolt in place of the 350. And a Ventura weighs about 600 lbs less than a Firebird / Trans-Am. If you want to stay brand loyal-a 455 Buick Apollo or a 455 Olds Omega would be a rocker. Or you could swap a small or big block Chevy into any of them, or a late-model LS motor. They have a ton of potential for very low bucks. I took the warmed-over 400 out of my '78 Trans-Am that I wrecked and put it a '72 Ventura back in the '80's. I smoked quite a few people who thought they were messing with a small-block Nova. And I had like $1,500 bucks in the whole car. A "X" body might be just the ticket for high performance for low bucks. Mastermind
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