This site was updated on December 23, 2007...
This ’88 SS was my 30th Birthday present from my wife in November of 2003. The previous owner planned to turn it into a quarter-mile car but lost interest in the project. He took it off the road in 2001 with just 85K on the clock, and it sat languishing in his garage until we bought it. Since it was just a rolling chassis, I had a good friend tow it back to Jersey for me, and then my friends and I rebuilt it and returned it to the streets. Everything on this car, from the TPI engine and 5-speed right down to the suspension and exhaust system was all installed in my driveway, without a lift or even an air compressor.
So, why did I choose a Monte Carlo SS to build up? It's a great-looking, full-frame car that came from the factory with a small-block Chevy under the hood and a decent suspension. Another important factor is that I can fit my family in it and carry luggage around, so we can attend cruise nights and car shows. They're also easy to work on, and still affordable. This car was built on a teacher's budget with mostly GM parts so that it's easily serviceable anywhere. Most importantly, I built the car to drive, and I want my money's worth!
