A Tasteful '61 Bel Air

Cutlassmann felt this particular build deserved a little extra. As good as he was, the talent of other professionals was needed to realize his vision. Part of his larger budget included an artist to draw out a motivational rendering that was nearly impossible to fault.

The execution of the drawing would set the stage for the build, which was done with an obvious emphasis on aesthetics, though this ‘61 Bel Air would get a bevy of pro-touring modifications to make it run and handle like a modern muscle car ought to.

As he had a modern LS planned from the start, Cuttlassmann knew he’d have to rely on some beefy anchors to drive his investment quickly and comfortably. A big brake kit from Wilwood—six-pistons up front and fours in the rear—was one of the first additions on his list.

The engine package was fairly simple, yet he made sure to add most of the basic bolt-ons to squeeze a little more out of this LS. A Spectre intake, MSD ignition, Holley Sniper EFI, a Spal twin fan, and a set of Hooker headers checked most of the easy power-adder boxes. He didn’t sacrifice much in vintage charm with this engine, either. Despite the motor’s obvious modernity, it’s nicely integrated into the vintage scheme with a set of retro valve covers.

Of course, the Bel Air wouldn’t really be a truly modernized muscle car without some handling enhancements, so Cutlassmann wrote a rather large check for Ridetech’s full front end, complete with their RidePro air ride system. Compliance would be paramount with this capable cruiser.

For related reasons, he made sure to lay down a layer of Dynamat for easy riding and a little less NVH. While he hoped this build would snap necks, he also hoped hope that it wouldn’t require the services of a chiropractor or an otolaryngologist.

Supple, soft, reliable, quick, and tastefully executed, this Bel Air build has a lot to savor. To follow its progression, follow this link.

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