From Childhood Obsession to Present Kid-Like Glee, this 1970 Chevelle Is Ready for New Memories in 2023
When you’re young, it’s not uncommon to discover cars that we can’t afford or obtain at that stage of life. But you just know that a particular car or model will be something you’d like to own sometime in life.
It’s why the classic car industry is continuing to blossom, and replicas of many a sports and muscle car are now being built.
For Ken Cuttle Jr., his ‘pie in the sky’ car was this 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle Super Sport, and he was first introduced to it in 1986 not far from his childhood home.
“My friend bought it,” said Ken. “He lived two blocks away in my old neighborhood, and I would ride my bicycle past his house just to see it!”
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Fast forward to the turn of the millennium, and Ken had managed to secure the big block-powered Chevelle for himself. The numbers-matching 396 cubic inch big block is in Ken’s possession, but he wanted a little more power.
A naturally-aspirated pump-gas drinking 496 cubic inch big block got to take up the vacant spot, and a Turbo 400 automatic transmission and 12-bolt rear end rounds out the driveline.
“The first time my car dead hooked at my home track many years ago, I was hooked to drag racing and have been obsessed ever since,” said Ken.
That obsession would lead Ken to take part in Hot Rod Drag Week last year, running the Street Race Big Block N/A class.
“Myself and three of my friends’ cars also competed in the same class,” Ken said. “To me, the drag-and-drive events are the ultimate test of how well your car is reliable. I love drag racing, but also love to drive my car. It’s the best of both worlds!”
For 2023, Ken decided to add Sick Summer to his ‘to-do’ list for the turquoise Chevelle, along with a few upgrades. “In preparation for Sick Summer, I changed from a 4.30 gear to a 4.56, and I’m installing a Gear Vendors Overdrive.”
He hopes the changes will move the 3,750-pound Chevy down the track a little quicker, but mainly is looking forward to doing another drag-and-drive event with friends.
“Attending the drag-and-drive events with the same like-minded people is the best,” Ken said. “People we’ve never met willing to help in any way they can, especially in these crazy times.”
Written by Derek Putnam. Photos courtesy of Ken Cuttle Jr.
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