At this summer’s Goodguys Summit Racing Nationals in Columbus, Ohio, Revision Rods & Rides showcased their stunning 1968 Camaro, known as “ARDUOUS,” in the highly competitive Street Machine of the Year category. This light-blue beauty, now powered by a Chevrolet Performance LT1 crate engine, began as a bare shell and has been transformed into a modern marvel of automotive engineering.
A Modern Twist on a Classic
The journey of “ARDUOUS” started with a nearly empty Camaro shell. “It didn’t even come with the motor or anything,” explained Tyler Nelson, the shop proprietor. “It was basically a shell, which was exactly what we wanted. We cut the whole floor out to set it on a new chassis, so we didn’t need much else.”
Located in Rapid City, South Dakota, Revision Rods & Rides acquired the Camaro from Nebraska, though it originally hailed from California. Clayton and Mary Graham, the vehicle’s owners, have previously commissioned two other Camaros from Revision. Their goal was to complete their collection with a 1968 model to represent all three years of the first-generation Camaro.
“We knew we wanted a modern look but didn’t want to stray from the ‘68 Camaro’s essence,” Nelson said. The result is a unique blend of classic style and modern performance.
Advanced Technology Under the Hood
The heart of “ARDUOUS” is the LT1 crate engine, a marvel of modern technology. This engine features direct injection and variable valve timing for optimal performance. It is part of Chevrolet Performance’s Connect & Cruise Crate Powertrain System, paired with a SuperMatic 8L90-E eight-speed automatic transmission. This setup not only delivers impressive power but also ensures efficient cruising and strong acceleration.
The Connect & Cruise package simplifies installation, providing all necessary components, including engine and transmission controllers, a torque converter, and installation kits. “It definitely did simplify it,” Nelson noted.
A Chassis Built for Performance
“ARDUOUS” rides on an Art Morrison Enterprises chassis, designed for a smooth ride and fitted with an independent rear suspension modeled after the fifth-generation Camaro. The chassis includes adjustable engine mounts, allowing the LT1 engine to be positioned perfectly for optimal performance and aesthetics. The Billet Specialties serpentine pulley kit at the front adds to the clean look of the engine bay.
Design and Craftsmanship
The design process began with a rendering by Eric Brockmeyer, a collaborator with Nelson for nearly two decades. The aim was to preserve the classic Camaro identity while incorporating modern touches. The engine compartment features a smooth, custom-built cover that conceals all wiring, and the body lines have been meticulously peaked for a more contemporary look. The front grille and bumpers have been updated, and the car features flush-mount glass throughout.
The Camaro’s rear has been mini-tubbed to accommodate wider tires, and the car sits as low as possible, riding on Billet Specialties wheels and Firestone tires. The exterior is finished in “Hail Blue Metallic,” a custom color with pearls and metallics that give it a striking, shimmering appearance.
Inside, the aluminum interior was hand-built at Revision Rods & Rides before being upholstered. The shop handles all aspects of the build, outsourcing only the leather stitching to Seams Impossible in Salt Lake City.
Recognition and Legacy
The “ARDUOUS” Camaro not only competed for Street Machine of the Year at Goodguys Columbus but also was a finalist in the GM Iron category of the Chevrolet Performance Builder of the Year program at the Goodguys Heartland Nationals in Des Moines. This recognition highlights the Camaro’s excellence and the shop’s craftsmanship.
Nelson, a Chevy enthusiast with a personal connection to the brand, sees “ARDUOUS” as a testament to his team’s dedication. “The sound and performance of the LT1 engine are fantastic. The eight-speed transmission takes some getting used to, but once you do, it’s amazing.”
To see “ARDUOUS” in person or learn more about this extraordinary build, visit Revision Rods & Rides in Rapid City or check out the latest updates on their website.
Source: Chevrolet/The-Block
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