Owned by Marty Ceccarelli, and built by Heath Elmer Customs, this big-block powered second-gen Camaro isn’t all looks. The two-year build-up from Heath Elmer, an in-demand builder in the Southwest, equated to a perfect example of what a pro touring muscle car should be. Of course, with all of its might, it needs some serious stopping power, which it gets from Baer Brakes.
This 1970 Camaro SS will turn any Chevy hater into a believer. When the owner found this car, it was nothing more than a roller with no engine or transmission, but a lot of potential (obviously) for what it could become. Marty took the car apart and found Heath Elmer’s shop because a friend has given him the reference. Knowing his friend was very picky, Marty took his word that the shop was right for him, and plans were made to transform the roller into a street king.
Once it arrived in Mesa, AZ, the transformation took off. The plan was to make the second-gen Camaro worthy of running with the supercars. Marty had a personal preference to use a big-block engine, which resulted in the Camaro getting a 655 hp, fuel-injected 427. The built-up engine is complimented by high-flowing aluminum Dart heads and a high lift cam from COMP. Backing the mighty big-block is a Tremec T-56 Magnum six-speed manual transmission and McLeod Racing twin-disc clutch.
To handle the extra power, a lot of Detroit Speed & Engineering parts would come into play, including a hydroformed front subframe, C6 spindles, mini-tubs, splined sway bar, JRi coilovers, rack and pinion steering, a rear Quadralink four-link conversion with 9” rearend, and integrated subframe connectors. This custom chassis rolls on Rushforth satin black powder-coated Whiplash wheels, wrapped in BFGoodrich KDW tires.
This high-end Camaro SS has to be one of the most capable second-gens we’ve seen in a while!
Elizabeth is hardcore horsepower enthusiast with unmatched intensity for making things faster and louder. She wakes up for power and performance and only sleeps to charge up for the next project that’s heading to the track. From autocross to drag racing, Elizabeth is there with you, so stay tuned for her unique perspective on horsepower news, builds, tech info, and installs — with her, it’ll never be boring!
