Mark drove the wheels off that car all through high school and beyond. “One great memory was when a bunch of friends piled in the Chevelle and we drove to see Van Halen in Cleveland. We always took my car on adventures because it had a kick-ass stereo for the time,” Mark says. “I drove the car for two winters without heat because I couldn’t afford to fix what I thought was a heater core. Turns out it was a $2 thermostat. At one point I had a girlfriend tell me that ‘I loved the car more than her.’ That may or may not have been true; I did love the car—still do.”

While on a date in the summer of 1995 the fuel tank fell out, ending the Chevelle’s daily driving duties. The car sat for years before Mark decided it was time for a restoration. What he thought was going to be a bit of bodywork and fresh paint, morphed into a full frame-off restoration, which also included an LS engine swap.

As the restoration process began Mark decided on an LS1 built by the crew at All In Racing Engines. They massaged the factory heads and utilized an Eagle Specialty Products rotating assembly and Comp camshaft. The induction system features an LS6 intake and factory fuel injection for the reliable, healthy powerplant.

The supporting cast includes a Holley mid-mount front drive system, a Griffin aluminum radiator, and dual electric SPAL fans. Sanderson headers, 3-inch stainless piping, and Flowmaster Super HP-2 mufflers deliver an aggressive tone when Mark stabs the loud pedal and puts the Chevelle to work.

A TREMEC Magnum six-speed transmission, paired with a McLeod Street Pro+ clutch offers firm, concise shifting and sends power to the original 10-bolt rearend upgraded with an Eaton Truetrac posi, 3.73 gears, and Moser axles.

The Chevelle’s stock frame was boxed to provide a strong foundation for the modern Pro Touring build. The suspension setup combines Classic Performance Products (CPP) components with Viking double-adjustable coilover shocks and CPP sway bars. Up front 2-inch drop spindles and tubular control arms offer improved geometry and an aggressive stance. Out back, CPP upper and lower control arms complement the upgraded shocks and springs while providing an exceptionally balanced ride. A Carhex modified steering box provides a quicker turning ratio for a more performance-oriented driving experience.

Braking is provided by big CPP 13-inch rotors up front and 11-inch plates out back, all with two-piston calipers. CPP’s HydraStop system ensures a light pedal feel combined with excellent performance braking especially in high-speed situations.

Mark, being well-versed in the Pro Touring muscle car world, subscribes to the importance of a proper stance along with the right wheel and tire combination. To satisfy the look he was after, Rocket Racing Attack wheels in gloss gunmetal wrapped in Nitto NT555 G2 Summer ultrahigh-performance rubber gets the job done. The Chevelle has an aggressive look and maintains excellent street manners while at the same time has the ability to get the most out of that upgraded suspension.

Inside, Mark and his wife, Jen, took on the interior installation by utilizing TMI Dark Gray upholstery, which pairs with black carpeting to create a clean, understated aesthetic. The factory dash was retained and integrates modern Dakota Digital RTX gauges for enhanced functionality.

The custom TMI center console houses electric window and door lock switches, a billet shifter ring, and custom shifter boot creating additional style. Jen had a hand in the process by building and covering the custom sail panels using TMI vinyl, while Mark collaborated with Matt Weiland on the custom rear deck for the third brake light and home for the rear speakers.

A Vintage Air HVAC system ensures proper cabin temps while blowing air through the factory vents, preserving the Chevelle’s heritage. Steering is handled by an Ididit steering column topped with the Chevelle’s original steering wheel.

The entertainment system features a Sony head unit backed by twin Precision Power PPI 4200AM amplifiers delivering power to four strategically placed Sony speakers and a Polk Audio 10-inch sub for a brilliant audio experience.

The Chevelle’s exterior is finished in stunning PPG Custom Blue Metallic and Pearl paint. Subtle upgrades enhance the car’s visual appeal while respecting its original DNA. Reproduction side mirrors and glass provide visual clarity while the Auto Metal Direct hood and Resto World grille and bumpers add fresh touches to the classic lines.

Due to lack of proper planning, a couple hot rod shop faux pas, and typical hiccups along the way, the whole process took about seven years, start to finish. “Yeah, it took longer than I had initially planned, but I’ve owned the car for over 40 years, so it was well worth the wait to have it done right, and having my wife involved made the process that much better.”