Nothing is a testament to the 1980s quite like the irresistible Monte Carlo. Next to the El Camino and Mustang, it may have been the path of least resistance to cheap horsepower for many young people tied to shoestring budgets. Fast-forward 20 years, and the love affair with seven generations of this American legend continues.
Doug Lutes ran in a circle where building cars meant drag vehicles capable of high speeds and clocking impressive quarter-mile times. But he wanted to be different — looking for a car that was quick, but one that could also take corners with confidence. In 2001, Lutes purchased his Chevrolet Monte Carlo. By 2006, it was a true project vehicle.
But only about a year into car ownership, Lutes’ 1988 Monte Carlo suffered a setback: The original 305 engine blew up, which fortunately made way for a more powerful 350 engine. To complement the increase in power, Lutes had the stock 200-4 transmission rebuilt to match the gains he was experiencing. But by 2004, the trusty 350 failed and Lutes was forced to re-evaluate the horror of his engine problems. The solution was not far off. Lutes reinforced the internal machinery to handle the power, boring out the cylinders to 0.60 over 350 and installing iron Vortec heads with a mild competition cam. The motor was able to record a best time of 13.34 at 104 mph in the quarter-mile.
In 2006, Lutes turned his attention to the suspension. He made the trip to Savitske Classic & Custom in Coopersburg, Pa. Subsequently, the shop replaced all the body mounts while a custom eight-point cage was installed, and the rear frame rails were notched. A new Stage II front suspension replaced the stock configuration, and a NASCAR-style exhaust was added. While no expense was spared on the important features, the same could not be said for Lutes’ concern for a killer paint job.
“My friends and I painted it in 2008 with rattle cans. That was cheap, easy and actually looks pretty good.”
By May 2010, Lutes was putting the final touches on his vehicle by focusing on upgrading the suspension system. Stainless steel brake lines, hoses and parking brake cables were installed. The four corners of the car are equipped with Chris Alston’s Chassisworks VariShocks. All the front steering components were also replaced, including the steering box. The rear springs were swapped out for early A-body springs, and finally the upper and lower rear control arms were upgraded to Currie Enterprises Curr-Trac Arms.
With the power and handling addressed, keeping the car firmly planted required wheels and tires that were up for the task. Lutes looked to CCW Classics for 18-inch wheels with black anodized centers and polished lips. BFGoodrich supplied the rubber.
“The car now has an amazing stance and the wheels attract attention wherever I go. And the car takes corners like no other car I have driven. I can finally say its done for a while.”
What do you drive? A 1988 Monte Carlo SS.
Why do you drive it? I have liked Monte Carlos since I was a kid. This is the second one that I have owned. Montes are full-framed cars and have so much potential.
What makes this car so special? The whole Pro-Touring style of car really fit my idea of what I wanted. This car is raw and all business. There are no creature comforts in this car. No heat. No A/C. No back seats.
What is your most memorable driving experience? My girlfriend and all my friends have nice cars. Going out to car shows and just cruising around are the best times ever. We all go to Ocean City, Md., in the spring and fall for the big cruise-ins, and that can get a little rowdy.
What was the first vehicle you owned? A hand-me-down 1986 Oldsmobile Delta 88, named the “Silver Biscuit.”
And your first ticket? What was it for? This is pathetic. I got my first ticket from a Rehoboth Beach bicycle cop for doing a burnout.
