My New Project Car

G ///McGregor K · 16th May 2009, 23:20

Hey guys, I wanted to post this in the Off Topic Forum so I could get some input in addition to the E60 guys.

I want to show you what I just started working on for a restoration project. I got a steal on this car a few weeks ago and jumped on it to restore. This is my first resto, so I'm looking to learn a lot. I'm going to be working on interior first, then engine, then exterior/paint. The car has a 400 Big Block motor that runs great, got good power. I'm planning on going with a 455 Buick (if that will even work?) after I finish the interior and throw a new trans and possibly rear end in her. Just wanted to see if anyone has some ideas to add to what I'm thinking.

All I have done so far is taken out the rear seats and recovered them. I've started working on the passenger door to loosen the window crank. And I gave her a good thorough wash. The trunk is rotted out so I've got to get a new trunk pan. Some of the "teeth" on the grate on the top of the hood (by the windshield) have been knocked out, so I'm going to have to find a way to replace those.

Here's the future mod list so far.

Interior: Sparco Racing Seats, 5 point racing harnesses, Hot Rod Air Conditioning System (fits under the dash and is a self-contained unit) and add a little new school with a Kenwood Nav/DVD player. I also plan on changing out the blue gauge bezels and getting those done in black. I think the slapstick shifter is pretty cool -- probly stick with that. Throw on some racing pedals as well

Exterior: Go with a Silver paint with black racing stripes (not convinced that's what I want yet, but I think so -- got some time as it's coming last). No aero parts, I love the look as is. Wheels probably stay as is -- at least for now. Going to throw some serious rubber in the back when I get the power to compliment it.

Engine: I want a serious torque monster so I'm thinking a 455ci motor. I have to admit I'm pretty new at all this stuff so whatever recommendations you have, please don't be bashful. Probably go with some Flowmaster exhaust to make it sound great, too.

I was also thinking about maybe digitizing all the gauges. I think that'd be pretty cool. Maybe not digital, but at least updating them to something a little more recent.

What are y'alls thoughts?

And of course, I knew I was going to get requests, so I took a few shots of the new ride next to the M5!

MCarRacr07 · 20th May 2009, 02:11

What a great find.....if you wanted to you could def. go with a 455 like the ones that were in the 1970 SD.
As far as paint....IMHO go white (Grand Prix White) w/ Blue Race Stripes....again mimic the SD version.
These cars are a HOOT to drive....stupid power in a straight line....tweaking up the suspension and brakes would leave many a jaw on the ground

.....
Regards
S

Seisup · 22nd May 2009, 23:38

I like it man....good to see german enthusiasts who appreciate american muscle cars as well....good luck with the project, will be cool to see how it progresses....

Seisup · 22nd May 2009, 23:45

Agreed on the 455 powerplant....I also dig the previous posters color scheme...would like pretty fly....as for the gauges and interior, IMO stick with the analog...would take away from its original look...unless of course you are wanting to modern up the muscle like Chip Foose and some of these other more radical car gurus do which is really quite cool as well....nice lookin' starting point thats for sure...

Infamous Q · 3rd June 2009, 23:23

I love that body kit off the M what type is that? DD you have anymore pic's of it?

G ///McGregor K · 4th June 2009, 01:07

Quote:

Originally Posted by Infamous Q

I love that body kit off the M what type is that? DD you have anymore pic's of it?

Thanks. It's actually not a body "kit" -- I just bought the pieces I liked from different vendors and pieced it together. It's a Hartge Front Splitter, Hartge Rear Diffuser and Hamann Roof Spoiler.

Myke951 · 4th June 2009, 17:26

too bad the beast isnt in LA...lol... nice meeting you dude...

G ///McGregor K · 4th June 2009, 21:49

I know man, I wish I had it here too! Good meeting y'all too. I'm sure I'll be seeing you around...

watchme · 6th June 2009, 19:06

That's a nice car man. Kinda hard (for me) to justify restoring it. Looks great the way it is!

G ///McGregor K · 6th June 2009, 19:17

Quote:

Originally Posted by watchme

That's a nice car man. Kinda hard (for me) to justify restoring it. Looks great the way it is!

Thanks man! It's actually in a lot worse shape than it looks. Needs a new front left fender, some teeth on the hood have been knocked out, a few dents here and there, the entire trunk is rusted out, door locks don't work, dash needs to be replaced. So it needs a lot of work, but it will be fun!!