Here's mine for this month. A lot of what went into this ride was inspired by a project car I had for a while, an 83 Chevette. It was my college cruiser, and although it was a blistering 19 second ride in the 1/4, lowered with 17" wheels the 2000 lb car would shred corners like a go kart. I started gathering parts to eventually make a serious G machine but unfortunately had to bail. Ever since selling the car I've had old compact car withdrawl. In answer to this month's contest, If I were to try again with a small car what would I use?
Here's the Vette with 3" drop and 205-40-17's alla round...
Here are a pair of 335-30-18's behind the Vette...
I did a drawing of the Vette a while back and was going to revise it a bit but decided to find something older than a smog ladened ride. One of the cars I stumbled across while dong research was the 1968 Buick/Opel Kadett. What a fantastic little car! I wanted my cheVette to be an all around killer and this car is no different. Front suspension is convereted to Mustang II with coil overs and all the handling goodies sporting 215-40-17' on 17x7 wheels. The back has been tubbed and narrowed with a 9" and 3-link to fit fat-n-massive 335-35-18's on 18x12" wheels. I thought it best to stick with "smaller" 12" brakes, knowing that this small a car doesn't need brake overkill to perform well. This also allows drag light weight 15" wheels to house the little skinnies and the 325-50-15 DOT drag tires.
Powering this 1/2 pint is a well warmed over and matching the make of the car Buick 3.8 turbo. I've read that very streetable 500 hp and 650+ lbs of torque are easy to come by in these little motors. Back that with an unbreakable 200R4 and you've got a tested and true combination.
Body mods are basic, larger hole up front for the intercooler to breathe, carbon fiber hood and chin spoiler, bug juice green paint with a two tone blue stripe, massive side exhaust ports, stretched rear wheel openings, and muscle car inspired rear spoiler to keep things on the ground at high speeds.
With it's combination of light weight, plenty of power, tight suspension and super fat meats, this is one car that can provide Mr. Toad with one seriously wild ride. 9 second e.t.'s, face planted against the glass through the corners and 25+ mpg with the air on sounds just about right to me, all while cruising across the country on the Power Tour and such.
