Every resto-mod project blends classic style with modern functionality, but some projects do it so seamlessly that they almost look like new vehicles that could appear in dealerships today. This 1971 Camaro, built by the RestoMod Store in Missouri, appears to be one such vehicle. With the smooth body lines, round headlamps, and split bumper, it's unmistakably a classic second-gen Camaro. However, elements such as aggressive wheels and tires, bulging fender flares, and custom honeycomb grille evoke the much newer sixth-gen design. And it's even powered by a fuel-injected, twin-turbocharged LS3 engine.
The photos in this article were taken by Grant Cox Photography for the February 2020 issue of Super Chevy magazine.
After being completed by the RestoMod Store, this '71 Camaro (nicknamed "Split Decision") got quite a bit of attention, and was awarded the Goodguys Builder’s Choice Award in 2019. It was also featured in Super Chevy magazine. More recently in 2022, it was sold to a new owner on BringATrailer.com for $140,000.
The exterior features a custom-made hood, front splitter, fog lamp intake funnels, and a ZL1-inspired honeycomb grille. Custom fender flares and floating rocker panels give the side profile a dramatic appearance. The matte silver rear body panel features a custom rectangular gas cap cover with embossed logo and 1969 Camaro tail lamps.
The car rides on a set of Boze Forged Clutch wheels that put the Wilwood big brakes on full display. The wheels are wrapped in 275/35R18 and 345/30R19 tires; this wide rubber is necessary to maintain traction under the power of the twin-turbo LS3. A Detroit Speed subframe with tubular control arms, Quadralink, and JRI coilovers help the Camaro handle twisty roads with ease.
Under the hood, the 6.2L LS3 V8 features a Comp Cams camshaft, Concept One serpentine system, Hi-Ram intake manifold, twin 62mm Precision turbos, an air-to-air intercooler, and an aluminum radiator with dual electric fans. The powertrain was completed with a built 4L80e, custom driveshaft, and Ford 9-inch rear end.
The interior of this Camaro received an equal amount of attention, with black leather upholstery, ProCar bucket seats, Dakota Digital gauges, a Lokar shifter, and a Billet Specialties steering wheel. A Pioneer stereo with Hertz Audio speakers, Vintage Air A/C system, and power windows ensure there's no lack of modern conveniences.
This resto-modded '71 Camaro looks great, and we're sure the new owner is enjoying every minute behind the wheel.
If you have a Camaro project of your own, even if it's not a no-expense-spared build like this one, click the button below to get a free full-color Classic Industries Camaro parts catalog. We'd be happy to help you with your project, no matter how big or small.