Ground Up Built Chevelle Restomod 5.3L LS V8 Automatic Custom Interior A/C

Completed in 2025 following a comprehensive three-year build by Commando Customs & Classics of Savannah, Georgia, this 1971 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu has been transformed into a fully realized modern restomod that combines classic muscle car presence with contemporary engineering and execution. Showing just 30 test miles since completion, the car is accompanied by documentation of its professional build.

The body has been refinished in Nardo Gray, a modern OEM Audi Sport color, accented by dual black striping with red pinstripe outlines, establishing a consistent visual theme that carries throughout the car. Detail work includes shaved drip rails, a full chrome delete featuring color-matched bumpers, black-painted trim, and blacked-out emblems with red accents, along with modern LED headlights, all contributing to a contemporary appearance. The stance is purposeful, aided by forged 20" US Mag Grand Prix two-piece wheels wrapped in Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 tires measuring 245mm up front and 275mm in the rear. The result is a distinctly modern interpretation of the 1971 Chevelle's design, with subtle customization.

Power comes from a Stage 2 cammed iron-block 5.3L LS V8 rated at approximately 475 horsepower, paired with a 4L80E automatic transmission and managed by a FiTech fuel management system. The engine bay is finished with attention to presentation and function, featuring a CVF Racing billet accessory drive system, a Griffin aluminum radiator with electric fans, and a custom stainless steel exhaust system equipped with MagnaFlow mufflers. The car rides on a fully upgraded suspension system that includes QA1 coilovers, tubular control arms, a double A-arm front setup, and a tubular 4-link rear configuration. A 10-bolt rear axle houses 3.73 gearing and a limited-slip differential, while power steering and power four-wheel disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors provide confident control.

Inside, the car has been completely reimagined with a full custom interior finished in red leather, accented by Alcantara suede and coordinated materials throughout. The cabin features custom bucket seats front and rear, a full-length center console, Daytona weave carpeting, and a leather-wrapped, color-matched dashboard. Modern amenities include Dakota Digital instrumentation, power-adjustable front seats, power windows, tilt steering column, modern air conditioning, and a Retrosound audio system with SiriusXM and Bluetooth capability paired with a powered subwoofer. Soft white LED ambient lighting has been thoughtfully integrated throughout the cabin and trunk, the latter of which has been fully finished to match the interior.

Defined by its cohesive design, modern performance, and fully realized concept, this Chevelle captures the essence of a contemporary pro-touring build while preserving the unmistakable presence of Chevrolet's iconic A-body. Backed by build documentation and finished with a bold, unified vision, it stands as a striking interpretation of the 1971 platform, where aggressive styling, sharp contrast, and a distinctive gray and red theme come together in a package that commands attention from every angle.

Key Highlights

* Pro-Built LS swapped Chevelle restomod
* 3-year restoration completed in 2025 by Commando Customs & Classics
* 5.3L LS V8 Stage 2 Cam
* 4L80E 4-speed automatic transmission
* 10-bolt rear axle with 3.73 gears
* Limited-slip differential
* Custom dual stainless steel exhaust with MagnaFlow mufflers
* Power steering
* Power four-wheel disc brakes with drilled and slotted rotors
* Modern air conditioning
* QA1 coilovers front
* Upgraded tubular front suspension
* Upgraded tubular 4-link rear suspension
* LED headlights
* 20" US Mag Grand Prix forged wheels
* Firestone Firehawk Indy 500 tires
* Custom red leather interior
* Power front seats
* Full-length center console
* Power windows
* Retrosound audio system with SiriusXM and Bluetooth
* Powered subwoofer
* Fully finished trunk with matching upholstery