Image via schawtzperf/Instagram
We love seeing modern engine swaps, especially when it’s done not using a crate engine. Thanks to all the complications involved in transplanting an engine made in the last decade or so, the level of skill and amount of work which goes into a swap commands serious respect. That’s especially true when mixing two brands for a unique combination, like this 1986 Chevy Monte Carlo SSRT powered by a thumping Hellcat V8.
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Nobody in their right mind back when this Monte Carlo would’ve imagined it with a 707-horsepower blown Hemi. Even these days the more likely swap would be an LS, but that’s been done on everything, especially Mustangs and Deuces.
Instead of just keeping the supercharged Hemi stock, Schwartz went with CNC-ported heads, a ported supercharger, custom blower cam, custom pulleys, 1,200 cc fuel injectors, and other goodies for 829-hp and 775 lb.-ft. of torque at the wheels. That’s none too shabby!
But Schwartz Performance out of Harvard, Illinois had a vision of building the ultimate G-body. Being a lightweight ride, combined with the supercharged V8, and plenty of space under the hood to fit everything necessary, it seems like an excellent idea.
Schwartz added all kinds of custom touches to the Hellcat Monte Carlo, including the 3-inch exhaust for that perfect rumble. The whole thing sits on staggered 20×10-inch and 22×13-inch Bonspeed wheels with Pirellis.
The interior received more Mopar organ donations, like seats from a Challenger. The dash is customized, featuring the push button ignition and other modern details integrated with 80s switchgear in a way that makes everything look like they belong together.
We know a lot of people love old Monte Carlos and it’s easy to see why. They look cool, with a certain panache about them which differentiates them from the crowd. Sadly, Chevy never saw fit to really pump up the performance level, favoring the Camaro and even more the Corvette. So it’s great to see someone drop a fire-breathing engine in one, backing up those looks with plenty of get-up-and-go power.
Images via schawtzperf/Instagram
