At the Mooneyes New Year’s Party in 2024, the Chevrolet A-Body platform stole the spotlight with its abundance of Chevelles and El Caminos showcased at Irwindale Speedway. Amidst the array of stunning muscle cars, a familiar sight emerged: a sleek four-door '67 Chevelle gliding down one of the aisles of classic cars. This particular vehicle happened to be none other than Project 395’s 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu sedan, and was a radical surprise to finally encounter Brian and his autocross machine.

Front of the Project 395 Chevelle

For years, I've been an avid follower of Brian and Project 395. My affection for patina, quirkiness, and four-door cars, though not necessarily all at once, has made Brian's sleeper Chevelle a top contender on my list of cars to capture. Little did I realise, during the event, that I would finally have the chance to meet him and encounter his extraordinary machine firsthand!

Rear of the Project 395 Chevelle

In the year 2000, Brian stumbled upon the crew cab Chevelle in a pennysaver ad, its fate hanging precariously within a pick-a-part yard. Without hesitation, Brian hurried to the wrecking yard and rescued the sedan from its imminent demise. Over the decades, Brian has transformed this survivor of the crusher into his trusted everyday road warrior, breathing new life into the Chevelle, ensuring its journey on the road continues for years to come.

Close up to the front of the Crew Cab Chevelle, with the Mustang emblem visible on the grille

In recent years, the Chevelle has undergone a significant powertrain upgrade, bidding farewell to its original 283 cubic inch engine in favour of a robust 468 big block. Paired with a Muncie M22 4-speed manual transmission and Gear Vendors overdrive, this powerhouse combination ensures formidable performance on the road and track. Underneath, a 12-Bolt Chevrolet rear differential equipped with Eaton 3.55 ratio positraction gears and Moser axles keeps the crew cab firmly planted. Rolling on 15x10 steel wheels wrapped in 295/50/r15 tires for street use, the Chevelle will also boast modified 18x11 steel wheels with 315/30/r18 tires during his autocross escapades, necessitating widened and customised front and rear body panels to accommodate the oversized wheels.

Brian's Crew Cab Chevelle Malibu during an autocross event. Photographed by Photos Project 395 on Instagram and Facebook

To transform the Chevelle into a formidable autocross competitor, Brian embarked on extensive modifications inspired by his introduction to the sport by his cousin. Delving into research, he sought ways to elevate this unassuming sedan into a true threat on the course. Upgrading the front brake assembly involved swapping it with a 1969 Chevelle disc brake and spindle assembly attached to Speedway Motors tubular control arms. Meanwhile, the rear suspension underwent alterations to the rear control arm mounts and the integration of Heim Joints in place of traditional bushings, enhancing agility and responsiveness on the track.

Getting close to the front fender, you can see the widening of the panel to allow the wheels to fit inside the fender well area

As the car's handling capabilities improved, the frame and body revealed their limitations. Intense cornering began to expose frame flex, even triggering the interior light intermittently due to the body twisting under force. To address this challenge, Brian opted for a solution that involved repurposing a 1967 El Camino frame, known for its reinforced frame rails. By replacing the original frame structure with the sturdier El Camino frame, Brian successfully bolstered the car's structural integrity, enhancing its performance and handling on the track.

Inside Brian's Chevelle

The Chevelle's distinctive charm extends beyond its performance enhancements to encompass unique flair and details. Adorned with badges that were never meant to grace a Chevrolet, such as a Mustang and Tesla emblem, the car exudes an eclectic charm that invites a double take from onlookers. Further adding to its eccentricity, a Ford 460 air cleaner proudly sits atop the engine, serving a dual purpose: not only does it spark curiosity with its unexpected presence, but it also contributes to enhancing cold airflow to the engine, blending functionality with whimsy.

Under the hood, the 468 cubic inch big block with the Ford 460 aircleaner can be seen

At the Mooneyes New Year’s Party in 2024, my time at Irwindale Speedway was filled with a dazzling array of automotive marvels. Among them stood out a 1967 Chevrolet Chevelle Malibu, a survivor that defied the crusher's grasp and emerged as a formidable competitor on the autocross circuit. This Chevelle embodies the classic tale of transformation, transitioning from its humble origins as a 283 small block family sedan to a powerhouse race car equipped with a formidable big block engine. It's the kind of comeback hero story that resonates with enthusiasts and reminds us of the enduring allure of automotive reinvention.

Until the next time I see you guys, get wrenching, get driving, and keep these classics alive!

- Kyle Hanger of Searching for Classics