EMC Picture Stream

1979 Chevy Monte Carlo

 

The journey of Bob’s Monte Carlo goes back many years just like most people. After a divorce and other personal issues he realized while out in Vegas with friends that he needed to get back to who he was and do something for him. Being broke and struggling to get by he knew it would be a challenge but it was what he needed to do for himself. Bob has a long list of cars he would love to own just like all of us. While searching on craigslist as far as PA there came across a 1979 Monte Carlo. The ad was over a month old but he figured what the hell and sent an email inquiring about it. After a few days there was no response. So he moved on and picked up a 1985 S-10 that he wanted to do a SBC swap in. 2 days after purchasing the s-10 he got a response about the Monte Carlo , stating it was still available and he had been away on vacation. So Bob headed out Long Pond, PA right passed the Pocono race way to take a look at the car. Having no money but this being the car he has always wanted to build, with a $1800 cash advance on his credit card he headed out. 

His first impression as he walked up the drive way and saw it was “This is it”. He negotiated and got it for $1500 leaving him just enough money to put insurance on it and drive it back to long island. His brother took him out to PA for go pick it up and was amazed at the condition and how well it ran. With only some minor rust issues it was clean, straight and solid floor pans. The car had the original 305 with a rebuilt th350 trans and highway gears in the rear. Black with the white vinyl interior, working radio, and the car didn’t need much other than a new windshield.

Bob drove the car around for a month until a bearing in the transmission blew a leak and that’s where it all started. In his spare time he was flipping, scraping and parting out cars with his brother for some extra money. One car they picked up as a late 80s suburban with a 350 motor for $300. Bob took that motor and pulled out the tranny out with it. Doing the normal cam, intake and carb swap and fixing the trans while he was at it. He scrapped the suburban for $450 making a nice profit and getting a better motor while he was at it. The next step was to change the heads, the motor had been dying at 4500 rpm and needed to be changed. The set of heads for the motor fell in his lap, or should we say on his foot. His brother owned him some money so in exchange he got a set of trick flow heads, the same heads that had fallen on his foot breaking a bone.

The car was just supposed to be a budget build to cruise around with, do some burn outs and enjoy. The beginning of what the car is now started with a tax refund, the first real money he would put into the car. Bob bought an 8.5 rear and drive shaft for the car and bought new upper and lower control arms from UMI. Still continuing to do side work with his brother he picked up a 010 bare block and complete long block for $200. Bob was able to flip the motor for $900 after putting in a cam and lifters. Having a few extra bucks and a good strong bare block, his friend’s engine builder just so happen to have a 383 stroker kit from a previous customer. A motor that was the top choice he wanted and so the build began.

This is about where most of us met Bob and his infamous build thread started and brings us to what it is today. It’s a 383 pump gas powered small block chevy with a th350 transmission and a ford 9” with 4.56 gears. The 10 point roll cage and anti roll bar were done by Thrift-way Auto in Hempstead . There are many plans for the car, New transmission, take more weight out of the car, frame notch and mini tub, and eventually some nitrous. 

To speak to Bob today, go to our Members Section -  Bob. Or you can just find Bob floating around our website, as he is a Moderator. Great, super smart funny car guy. Trust us when we say, he drives his Monte Carlo a lot on the street as well as the track.

1996 Chevy Impala SS

Matt's story of getting his Impala SS was a sad story that had a happy ending. Some may remember Matt's 1986 Monte Carlo SS, which he was forced to sell. Matt knew that if given the chance, if he found a Impala SS that he liked, he would get it. And after a good amount of time searching, he finally found one.

The Impala has an LT1 Corvette motor, fuel injected. Matt put the stock 17inch wheels back on, Flowmaster exhaust, stereo system and a K&N Cold Air Filter. Then Matt tinted the rear tail lights and installed aftermarket smoked headlights.

Matt does have future modifications on the list. Which he says will eventually get done. Like an LT4 with aluminum heads, GM Hot Cam, shift kit in the transmission, Hotchkis suspension and some interior conversion work.

We love stories with a happy ending and can't wait for Matt to finish his Impala SS the way he wants it and enjoy it with no more forced sells in sight. To speak to Matt today, go to our Members Section - FadesSS13.

1981 Pontiac Trans Am

Mike is like the unofficial mechanic of EMC. He just about works on majority of the vehicles in the club at some point. Mike has been working on cars since he was 16 years old and was a regular on Francis Lewis Blvd. He has owned over 40 cars in his lifetime (we will spare you the long list but can assure you, he has had some sweet rides.) Most members may remember Mike's 1991 Ford Mustang when he joined. Which he sold for his now 1981 Pontiac Trans Am.

Mike bought the car because of the condition of the body, interior and under carriage. And Mike being Mike, it wasn't going to stay stock for long. The Trans Am originally started out being a 4.9 Turbo Trans Am. Mike started out removing and completing the drivetrain, rebuilding the turbo 400 with a shift kit, lower first gear set and a PTC 2500 stall converter 10 inch and trans cooler. The 12 bolt rear was completely rebuilt with larger axels and 3:73 gears. The new motor was done by Sandoval Racing in Brooklyn. Mike got a fresh big block Chevy 396, 10 to 1 compression, solid roller cam, Holley 750 carb and an Edelbrock intake. He also did a aluminum radiator and a big electric fan that pushes a lot of cfm. The Trans Am has a Holley fuel system with a stock gas tank and sumped.

As for looks Mike changed the wheels a few times from the reproduction Pontiac wheels to Weld Wheels and MT tires and drag radials and slapped on a fiberglass hood.

As for future modifications Mike plans to clean up the interior by getting a new carpet installed, body panels and seat covers. But, with NOS on his mind he is thinking of putting that in as well.

Mike is at every EMC track rental along with most cruise nights with the Club. He KNOWS his stuff. He is willing to give advice and work on your car if interested. Aside from being a great mechanic, he also runs cars at the track for anyone. Great, funny guy and a senior EMC Member. To speak to Mike today, go to our Members Section - ham.

1967 Pontiac Firebird

If you aren't a fan of 60's Firebird's, we are sure looking at Paulie's 1967 Pontiac Firebird will change your view. It is one of the sweetest, cleanest, well built 60' Firebird's we have seen around this area. And trust us, you'll want his.

Paulie bought the car in 2001. It was located just a few blocks away from his parents house were he grew up in Middle Village, Queens. He was told it had sat there awhile so Paulie took a chance, left a note on the car and later picked it up for just $2,300. The interior was shot, the quarters and fenders were rotted. It had a small block Chevy that had a knock in it and a 4 speed T10 trans. And that's when all the work began!

Paulie had the body work and aint done by May of 2002, the 355 was rebuilt, the interior was put back to stock, the suspension was in. The paint and body were done by Paulie's cousin Hank's shop in Ozone Park, NY - Excel Auto Body. Paulie's cousin Hank also helped him with a lot of the mechanical work.

Later Paulie was able to get a Pontiac 455 and put the overdrive trans in around 2008. As the Firebird sits now, it has a 455 Pontiac motor bored .30 over, 2004r tranny, Hotchkis lowered suspension, Boss 338 rims with Nitto tires 18x8 9.5 in the rear, Procar Rallye low back seats with matching rear seat cover, Holley 750 double pumper carb, Be Cool 4 core aluminum radiator, Stainless steel braided fuel line front to back, Powermaster alternator, custom gauge cluster with Autometer gauges, Dana 60 rear with 354 gears and a custom trunk.

Ever since all the work, Paulie has been enjoying the car ever since. He uses it whenever he gets a chance and loves going for rides with his family in it. As for doing anything in the future with the car, Paulie is sure more mods will come and maybe a/c. We think with the Firebird the way it is, the only thing Paulie needs to do with it is keep driving it! To speak to Paulie today, go to our Members Section - Paulie.

2010 Mustang Shelby GT500

One may remember Ricky's car when he first joined EMC, his silver and black 2010 Camaro SS LS3. Ricky owned it until 2012, when he replaced his Camaro for his new Shelby. As Ricky puts it, "The Camaro couldn't stand a chance against the Shelby, lol. No contest." We loved Rick'y worked Camaro, and are kinda sad to see it gone, but boy do we love what he has been doing with his Shelby!
Ricky since owning the Shelby has replaced the factory 19" wheels with Concave 20's, put Eibach lowering springs, Flowmaster Outlaw Axleback exhaust, rear end gridle cover, Ford side door scoops, Cervini's quarter window scoops and an optional trunk trim panel. Since then, Ricky has just been enjoying the car's drivetrain as is. And let's give credit to where credit is due, Ricky lives and drives this beast around Manhattan!!! Nice!!
Ricky's future modifications include a smaller blower pulley and tune, full length headers and x-pipe, upgraded clutch and a set of slicks. As Ricky claims, "the traction on this car is a joke."
Ricky is a GSE mechanic and has been messing with cars ever since he was fourteen. He has been street racing during the early 90's and has had quite a few cars over the years from Mopars to Ford's to imports and even his first GM, a Grand National. Personally, we think Ricky can get whatever he wants, and we will always like it as he makes them look, run and sound good. Ricky is an awesome guy, who will drive his cars just about anywhere to hang out. If you haven't met him yet, you will! To speak to Ricky today, go to our Members Section - FORSAKEN70.

1987 Buick Grand National

Some like to think of Elvis as being the King of Rock N' Roll - We like to think of Greg as the King of G-Bodies. Reason being, not only has Greg owned over 60 cars in his life, 20 of them have been G-Bodies. And aside from us featuring Greg's Grand National, he also has a G-Body wagon, Grand Prix and a T-Type (this is just naming the current G-Bodies he owns, he also has other cars if you can believe it). And Greg being Greg, NOTHING is ever stock or what it seems! Be jealous, because you really should be.

Greg has owned his Grand National since 2003 and is the 2nd owner. With 60,000 miles on the car, and 1,200 on the new motor. The GN was an ATR built, applied technologies and research built car back in 1994 and was painted Mercedes black back in Florida.

His GN is a stock 8.5 GN rear, 3:73 gears and C Clip illiminators. In 1996 a 2004r trans was done with a 10inch, "the real Art Carr" converter. His GN is a stock 3.0 production block, 20 over Wiesco pistons, stock rods, 2 main caps, center location, roller cam, steel Champion heads, ported and polished with a ported matched stock intake, Precision 67 Turbo, 60lb injectors, RJC 3 inch downpipe, Poston Headers, Magnaflow 3 inch exhaust and CDomplete ATR suspension. And with all that done, of course Greg has custom wheels, custom fog lights, gauges and a nice sound system. Looks good, sounds good and moves good, just like how Greg likes it.

As for future plans, one never knows for sure, because Greg buys and sells his cars like one would shop for clothes. You never know what he is going to show up with, how he is going to build it and when it's gone. All we can suggest is keep close tabs on Greg, be his friend and know his cars, because when he is ready to sell, you'll want to buy it!!!

To speak to Greg today, go to our Members Section - v6sleeper.

1956 Ford F100

Richie sold his awesome Corvette to get the truck he always wanted. The truck was purchased in West Virginia, last year, had no interior or any hardware or glass, except for the windshield. Richie installed all new glass, one piece in doors, new hardware and full interior. Everything is brand new on the body except for the cab and doors. Just looking at this truck, you'll see every detail has been met. The wood finish in the bed is completely flawless as well. The fact that Richie is a detailer shows with his truck. Super clean, looks brand new like it just rolled off the showroom floor.

The motor is a Chevy 305 small block, with mild cam, replaced manifold, carb, distributer, wires, plugs, air cleaner and installed ceramic coated headers, all new wiring and fuel lines.Richie had all new brakes installed and the chassis is from a late 80's Chevy pick-up.

Richie finally owns the truck he always wanted, and his future plans are to just drive it and enjoy it.  If your not a truck person, you will be when you see it. And if your interested in Richie detailing your ride, just get in touch with him. To speak to Richie today, go to our Members Section - Richie98.

1978 Pontiac Grand Prix

Yes, your vision isn't playing games on you. This is a super clean, well done Grand Prix. And here we all thought you couldn't find any around NYC anymore. The story behind it is even better! Matthew found this car sitting in a street used and abused in old College Point, NY where the owner had lost interest in the car and let it go. Originally Matthew was looking for a 1980 Hurst, but, he wanted to be different and went for the Grand Prix. Good choice! This would be Matthew and his Father's first and only project together, that started in 2007. Matthew remembers bringing the Grand Prix home as a "blood rushing experience." Don't you love that feeling?

The Grand Prix was original with a Pontiac 301 V8 and a 200 Metric Transmission and a peg leg rear end. The car was a mess. Matthew put 3.73 gears into the car and that's when he started to hear a knock in the motor. A loose connecting rod was the case, and Matthew knew he had to change the motor. A year passed and Matthew received his Chevy 350 that came from Phoenix Arizona and is still running strong in the GP. Matthew also added a 200-R4 Monster Transmission.

Matthew's future plans for the car are to change the heads and eventually get the car painted and just enjoy it.

This isn't just a project car to Matthew, but one where he got to learn and build the car alongside his Father, who he see's as an inspiration and hero.

Don't you love hearing about these Father/son projects? We are sure there will be lots more to come with Matthew's Grand Prix, and we can't wait.

To speak to Matthew today, go to our Member's Section - 78PontiacGP.

1970 Chevelle SS 396

Check out Barry's super clean Chevelle. The car was purchased by telephone, unseen from Marietta Georgia on New Years Day 1990. Barry had been searching for a Chevelle SS 396 for several months at the prodding of his then girlfriend, now wife Lori. Barry's first car was a 1970 SS Chevelle 396 which he owned from 8/1975-6/1977.. He sold it for his 1976 Trans Am which he still owns, and performed much better on the drive to his college in Rochester. Barry missed his Chevelle days..found in Hemming's Motor News he paid $11,500 including a frame on restoration. Protecto Plate insured Barry had a matching number SS with factory air from the south. Three months later in April 1990 Barry and his wife had one way plane tickets to Atlanta, followed by a crazy ride home with his girl, and soon had the car in his driveway.

Everything that could possibly leaked did, due to sitting in a barn for decades, and thanks to Barry's brilliant mechanic brother in law Tommy the car was in perfect condition in a few months. Transmission, rear end, factory exhaust, carb, air conditioning and every switch and part were gone through. She still wears the paint and interior from the Georgia restoration and runs and drives perfect. Barry upgraded from Firestone Wide Oval bias ply tires, to Goodyear radials for better handling and control. Barry is a bit fanatical with the Chevelle, and plans to keep the car original and pass it to his oldest son Danny who came home from the hospital in this car after being born. Barry says he has, "always loved owning the "poster child" for American muscle cars."

Technical Specs: number matching CTW 402 CID 350hp engine, factory air, radio, gauges, cowl induction hood, 3:31 posi rear, turbo 400 trans, stock exhaust, T3 headlights as well as all parts.

Barry drives his Chevelle often all year round, as well as his 76' Trans Am. The further the drive, the better. Both of his cars are flawless, are super clean and he knows every little thing about them. A true car guy who loves his Muscle cars, he is also a photographer. Want a nice picture of your ride? He is the guy! To speak to Barry today, go to our Members Section - Barry.

1987 Mustang 5.0 Notchback

It's the usual case, you see a car that you HAVE to have, and you get it if your lucky. And thanks to eBay, you can! Even with it being on the other side of the coast. For Antonio, that's exactly what happened. All the way from Brentwood, California, Antonio won his Mustang more than a year ago. He had been looking for a foxbody Notchback for some time. Most have been heavily modified and beaten on, but not this one. And with just 22,000 miles on it with a manual transmission, Antonio didn't hesitate to get it shipped to NY.

The car was mostly stock, with the exception of a few bolt on upgrades such as BBK Headers, 1.7 Roller Rockers and a catless X-Pipe. When Antonio got it he added a flex-a-lite electric fan and radiator kit, water pump, timing belt cover, 3G alternator, RAM clutch and a lightweight drive shaft, Maximum motor sports full length sub frame connectors, Eibach front and rear sway bars and a AGR quick ratio power steering rack and new power steering pump.

Working on his car is very rewarding for Antonio, and his dream is to drop a Ford Racing crate engine into it himself. It will be awhile thought before Antonio will spring for the Ford Racing crate motor, so until then he plans on doing the entire top end of his current engine. He plans to add Trick Flow Twisted Wedge Heads, Cobra intake manifold and a mass air conversion.

Antonio says his car is a plain jane sleeper, but gets a lot of attention. Well it got ours! It definitely is one of the cleanest, mint condition Notchback's we have seen in a looooong time.
For Antonio, nothing brings him more satisfaction than going to cruises with his son Giovanni. He too, loves the car. We are a little jealous of Giovanni, as Antonio plans on eventually passing the Mustang down to him, but he adds, no time soon! Why can't all Father's be like Antonio? That's one sweet gift!!!! And if Antonio happens to take on foster kids, I am sure it wouldn't take us long to show up on his door step. To speak to Antonio today, go to our Members Section - CHIODI.

1932 Ford

 

Joe has always been into cars and his been in the car scene for as long as most members have been alive. He has always loved the 1932 Ford's ever since he was a young boy. So it would make sense that Joe would have a 32' Ford as is his first car. Think Joe doesn't love it? He STILL OWNS HIS FIRST 32' FORD! While Joe's first 32' sits in his warehouse, he also owns a 1932 Ford 2 door sedan which you see here today. It has a metal body with fiberglass fenders and was restored about 20 years ago. It has a 4 wheel disc brake setup, a Jaguar rear end, a 350 turbo trans with a 3000 stall converter, a 350 Chevy motor with a mild cam, heads, performer RPM intake manifold, Holley 650 CFM carb, MSD distributor and box. The interior again is old school, done a long time ago with a few gauges, gray cloth and leather interior. Joe also has a Hurst Shifter and old school Crager rims (not seen in the picture we are featuring) with Yokahama tires.

Joe's 32' isn't exactly done by his standards. He plans on doing a Ford 9 inch rear, overdrive transmission and a custom full interior. Joe right now is having a hard time deciding whether to do a supercharged flat head Ford or a Buick Grand National drivetrain. In the end, who knows, you just know that it will be done. But why all the hold up? Because Joe got his wife Marie a 32' Ford that he has been working on. One project at a time, but we know that anything Joe has, it's going to be good and your gonna wish you had it.

Joe as you can see, loves his 32' Ford's but, really, he loves all types of cars and hot rods. Joe also is in the car business. Joe started up Manhattan Speed Shop with his Father, Vito, back in the 1960's. Now Joe has converted Manhattan Speed Shop into Bronx Automotive, which he started up in 2000. A family business that stocks Old Car Parts, Street Rod, Hi Performance, Regular auto parts, Buick grand National parts and the list goes on. Bronx Automotive is also a vendor of EMC. Check out Joe's site at www.bronxautomotive.com.

You can find Joe at most EMC meets and gatherings along with many weekly cruise nights along with his son Victor (co-founder of EMC), and his wife Marie. A great, funny guy who knows his stuff and is always sharing information and willing to help anyone who needs car parts. A true old school Hot Rodder who still goes all out in what he has. If you haven't had the pleasure of meeting Joe yet, bring a bottle of Jagermeister around with you in case you do. You never know, that stuff can make the old man maybe give you free car parts! To speak to Joe today, go to our Members Section - Joes32fords.

1989 Pontiac Turbo Trans Am

If you know Archie, you pretty much know he has more Turbo cars than anyone in NY. If you don't know of Archie, you should. Especially if you love Turbo Buicks or Turbo Trans Ams. We wanted to feature Archie's 1989 Tubro Trans Am first, for the simple fact that, well, when do you really see them anymore? But let's not forget, Archie does own a real deal GNX, a Grand National and a rare white 1986 T-Type with a tan/saddle interior that he went all the way to Texas to get. Think he likes 80's powered Turbo's? That's putting it lightly.

The 89' Turbo Trans Am was Pontiac's answer to their 20th Anniversary of the Trans Am. It really is one of the rarest Turbo cars next to the Buick's. The Trans Am came with the Turbo Buick 3.8 Liter SFI intercooled engine. The Anniversary TA did come from factory with the Anniversary sticker decal kit, which you could put on if you wanted or leave off. Archie opted to put the decals on his TA. Archie's TA is a T-Top car, leather interior, full gauge packages (something the GN never came with.) It also has a steering wheel controlled Bose stereo system. Pontiac only made 1,555 of these Turbo Trans Ams. Archie's TA is car number 688.

Archie made a few modifications to his TA including a Cold Air Package, a 3 inch Downpipe, TA49 Turbo, 36lb Injectors and Hi-Performance 255 LPH Fuel Pump. And like all his toys, Archie made sure he put HID's on his TA. As for future modifications, Archie says maybe an exhaust system, different tune or a few other things.

Archie loves all of his rides, he drives them year round. Anywhere, anytime, anyplace you'll see him in one of his cars. His knowledge of these cars is great as is his love for them. He is one of the original EMC Members and a very respected one at that. And if you ever want a Turbo Buick or Trans Am, watch Archie's collection like a hawk and hope he puts one of his up for sale, you'll want to buy one of them for sure!!!! To speak to Archie today, go to our Members Section - GNXARCH.

1968 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray

First off - Congrats to Lily! Our first female owner Car of the Month! You know all know the saying"Badass Toys are not just for boys!" - The story of this 68' Corvette Stingray is the story of a little girl's dream. When Lily was 13 years old, one day she saw this knock out car that made her jaw drop. It was the Stingray body and ever since then, Lily has been dreaming about that gorgeous Corvette, never thinking she would ever own one.
Fast forward to late November 2002, Lily's husband (EMC member Greg and previous Car of the Month feature) just happened to see this red Stingray on Nassau Blvd in someone's driveway with a for sale sign in the window. They made a u-turn and looked at the car. Even though the engine did not run and the interior was very rough, the body was intact and presentable. After looking it over and negotiating, Lily's dream came true on November 26, 2002 thanks to her husband.
It wasn't all smooth cruising from there on. Lily had her dream, but now she could not yet drive it. It would actually take 7 1/2 years for Lily to actually take her first drive in her Vette. They started by checking the engine over. Lily and Greg discovered that the carburetor was incorrectly hooked up and the fuel line was plumbed directly into the pvc port and was just pumping raw fuel into the intake manifold. They corrected this and pulled the spark plugs with fuel just pouring out of the cylinders. Once they dried the cylinders and sprayed some DW40 in, they installed fresh plugs and the engine fired to life. Obstacle 2 would now appear: Once warmed up, the oil pressure dropped to nothing. Pulling the intake manifold revealed a few completely flattened cam lobes. They assumed the worn metal circulated through the engine taking out the bearings. It was apparent: a rebuild was in the cards.
After the rebuild, they encountered the same "no oil pressure when hot" situation. No amount of looking into it solved this problem. The engine was pulled out again and this time, the block was disgarded and a used 4 bolt main block was obtained. The old block (not numbers matching anyway) was kindly dumped at the local scrap yard.
This engine block would get the full works. Competent machine work, Aluminum Edelbrock heads and Intake manifold, Comp Cams Hydraulic Magnum camshaft, Holley 750 Carb, Stainless shorty headers and full 2 1/2 custom exhaust system, Pump gas friendly 9.6:1 compression. It is a nice complement to the highway 3.08 rear gears for long trips anywhere they like to go.
At the time this rebuild was going on, the electrical system in the car was completely hacked up by previous "I don't know what to call them". The entire wiring system was removed and all exterior and engine bay wiring was completely overhauled with connectors soldered. Msd 6Al ignition box and distributor was wired into the harness at this time. All suspension and body bushings were completely replaced with the body being lifted off the frame for thorough access to everything. The gas tank and fuel lines as well were replaced. The suspension parts were all bead blasted and refinished before being reinstalled. New brakes, wheel bearings, and all u-joints were replaced at this time as well. The body was then lowered back onto the painted frame with new Urethane body bushings and fasteners.
The interior was thoroughly scuffed, prepped and redyed in black. New carpets complete the interior. The front seats are currently covered with seat covers, but have yet to be recovered with correct seat upholstry. A new paint job and the seats are the remaining projects in the near future.
June 2008 was the car's maiden voyage to Jones Beach, and Lily has been completely enjoying it ever since.

Lily is every car guys dream wife! Aside from her having her own set of wheels, she loves the meets and Track Rentals and gets involved in EMC when she can. Lily's Stingray actually ran at EMC's 1st Annual Track Rental as well. A super sweet girl with passion for her Stingray that some car guys don't even have for their own rides. She is a great girl to have around and one of the First Ladies of EMC. Our guess is beautiful cars match their owners! To speak to Lily today, go to our Members Section - AngelsStingray.

1981 Chevrolet Malibu

Usually cars we feature are done for the most part, with just some ideas and a few future modifications planned. We love Joe's Malibu so much, we just couldn't wait so here it is!

Joe started the car build with a crate 502 Motor that he got for a price that was basically a gift. So with the motor at hand the hunt for a car was on. A couple of friends (And EMC member Scott - scstein) were trying to get Joe to look at a 1981 Malibu for $500 bucks. Hesitant about a $500 Malibu since they are prone to rust it took Joe 2 months to go look at it and if he didnt buy it, it was going to the crusher. The guys mother wanted the car out one way or the other. So in April of 2009 Joe went and saw the car, looked at it for 2 minutes and ran to the bank! Not a hint of rust on the floors, quarters, or frame. Lucky!!!!!

Joe drove the car for a year and a half with the 350/350 that it came with while he had the 502 bored over to a 509, installed a Comp Cam, light clean up of the stock rectangular port heads, double roller timing chain, high pressure oil pump, 8 qrt Moroso pan, team G dual plane Wienand intake, March pulley system, Holley 750 double pumper, MSD ignition, mated to a turbo 400 trans, had a quick performance Ford 9" with Wilwood disc brakes and 3.50 gears to finish up the drivetrain. Joe has the stock rear suspension with an 82' Iroc front springs to hold up the front end. The interior is from a Monte SS.

All work has been done at home with a lot of parts donated from good friends and "quoted from Joe himself "some real good people right here at EMC family." The best thing about having this car is the time Joe has spent with his wife Veronica and son Derick at car shows and events. If you see Joe or the car you can bet money that they are right by his side.

Future for the car is to have a Pro Touring suspension stance, Wilwood front brakes with a hydraboost system, fuel injection, two tone paint, redo the interior to black, and as Joe likes to say, "drive it like I stole it,. As far as it ever being finished are they ever?"

Joe is an awesome guy and a great member. He really is building a really awesome Malibu that, even if not fully finished, we still like and want. We couldn't wait to feature it but, we are even more eager to see it's final touches. Be on the lookout and stay tuned, Joe really is building a great car! To speak to Joe today, go to our Members Section - 509BU

1987 Buick Grand National

The running joke of this Car Club and Forum is that we are mainly Turbo Buicks. What people don't know is that this Club was started by a bunch of car friends who met eachother because of their Turbo Buicks.. But because we just so happen to own Turbo Buicks, doesn't exactly mean that's all we have owned, want or like. Hence why EMC is open to all kinds. But we do have a lot of Turbo Buicks on this website, and it's time to feature another one!

Nick is widely known on the Turbo Buick scene because the guy goes all over the damn place. Out of state, drag tracks, car shows etc. There isn't anything Nick wouldn't do for anyone. Infact, at a car show while he waxed his car he even offered to clean mine! But anyways, basically Nick is the most polite, friendly car guy you will ever find. If you own a Turbo Buick then your extremely lucky to have him around, but your lucky to have Nick around anyways. He is like a Car Fairy!

When Nick was 17 years old he got a ride in his first 1987 Grand National and was hooked. He had owned a 1987 IROC at the time and felt the Camaro had to go and he needed to own a GN. And so it began.

Nick has owned his Grand National for 9 years now and has 68,000 miles. The car actually came from Canada. It has kilomteres on the speedo rather than MPH. 5 Years ago Nick did a full restoration on the car. He did a complete paint job with the correct GN Black paint for that year. All the panels on the car were changed and all the mechanical work was done by Mike (also a Member) at Bronx Automotive.

Performance modifications done were a TA49 Turbo, Mark Jackson 17 Row stock location Intercooler, Terry Houston 3inch Down Pipe and Pypes Exhaust 2.5 System with cut out. Suspension work includes all UMI Performance Bushings and Control Arms. Nick has a full set of gauges including a SCANMASTER which is the basic on board tuning tool made for the Buick Grand Nationals. Nick has also used many different companies for Chips, no alcohol and he runs 93 Octane gas.

As far as future modifications go, Nick wants to re-do the interior, add more gauges and to basically enhance the look of the car. He'd like to have Mike from Bronx Automotive get more power out of it with some more tuning and tweaking. Most likely go to larger Injectors and maybe a Turbo and Torque Converter change.

Nick says he appreciates all the help from his friends, Mike and Bronx Automotive for all the help they have given him over the years. Nick is also a proud EMC Member.... What Nick doesn't know, is we are just as proud to have him as not just a Member, but a highly valued one. Seriously the nicest car guy around. An also a EMC since the beginning! Just park your car next to him and find out! To speak to Nick today, go to our Members Section - NICK87GN.

1989 Ford Mustang LX 5.0 Convertible

 

 

Franco's Mustang makes even Vanilla Ice a little jealous. Super white bright paint, white drop top and some super clean aftermarket rims along with a few extra's. When you see Franco's Mustang, one can understand and maybe even want to ask, is it for sale? NO! At least not yet anyways.

Franco bought his Mustang in April of 2011. He had just sold his 1968 Pontiac Tempest and was having his second child and wanted a car his whole family can enjoy. When a deal fell through on a Cadillac Coupe Deville Franco went on a whim to look at the Mustang he now owns. Franco who even claims to have hated Mustangs his entire life, liked what he saw in this Mustang. Still unsure about it, he test drove it and that was all it took. He bought the car the same day. To quote Franco's wife, "The garage didn't even have time to get cold!"

Franco's whole plan was to drive the Mustang just for the summer and flip it. Franco's plan died after owning the Mustang became an obession for him. And with being able to fit the wife and two car seats in the back, why not keep it?

The Mustang is a fuel injected 302 bone stock (as far as he knows). It had chrome ponies on it and was already lowered with KYB Shocks and lowering springs on all 4 corners. T-5 5 Speed Transmission, Full stainless Flowmaster Exhaust and factory interior. So Franco gave it a new paint job, new rims, BBK Cold Air Induction, new head unit and an upgraded 140AMP Alternator.

Franco's future plans are really to just enjoy the car with his family as much as possible. He plans to keep it as close to stock as possible, but who knows. Maybe not?

If you don't see Franco walking around with an Empire Muscle Car t-shirt on with a cigar in his mouth, you'll usually be able to see him driving around with his wife and kids in the car with the top down. Franco is a valued member at EMC and doesn't miss much of anything when it comes to the car scene. Super nice guy who will do anything for his fellow EMC Members. To speak to Franco today, Go to our Members Section - Franco.

2008 Pontiac G8

 

Brian's G8 is definitely like one you haven't seen around these parts. It's one, if not the only, most modified G8 in the Northeast. And a recent trip and Award of Excellence win at the GM Carlisle Nationals proves it. Brian has performed a full Holden Commodore Conversion (minus the right hand drive swap) which included a custom made front bumper, full Holden emblems, a custom gauge pod and paint. It is by far the most complete Holden Conversion in the Northeast. Most of the mods were done by Brian or with a helping hand from one of his friends.

Brian's modifications to his G8 is like reading a legit build sheet. Since EMC has started back in May of 2011, he had the longest modifications e-mail so far. So please understand our laziness when we show you what his modifications entail instead of us talking about them (because we would be typing for hours!)

Before we do show you Brian's modification list, we'd like to remind anyone who has a G8 or wants to own one, if you ever needed an education on building one, Brian is your guy! He truly knows G8's inside and out. You don't have to take our word for it, you can see his G8 in person and talk to Brian to find out for yourself.

Brian did have something to say about EMC that we would like to include: "Cruisin with the EMC crew has been a great honor as you are all a great bunch. There is such an array of automotive knowledge and memories in this club that an afternoon spent with the EMC crew becomes a great way to hear about some Long Island racing and muscle car history which by far means more to me than any trophy I could win at a show. I want to thank everyone at EMC for allowing me to hang and cruise with you guys and gals. I only hope I have Morty's energy and passion for the automotive hobby as my years go on." Awww, isn't that special? EMC loves Brian's G8, but being such a nice guy, we can't help but like him as well! There isn't anything Brian wouldn't do for any of our members, and car guys like that are hard to find these days. A valued member indeed! To speak to Brian today, go to our Members Section - Holden Aces
#018 of first 888 "Holden Aces"

Performance Mods -
Roto-Fab CAI and Radiator Cover
Kooks 1 7/8" Mid Length Headers
3" Race Cats
DMH Low Profile Electric Cut-outs
Magnaflow Cat-back System
Custom GM Engineering PCM and TCM Tune
Billet Prototypes Oil Catch Can
Front and Rear CrossDrilled and Slotted Rotors / Ceramic Pads
A few other mods (gotta hold some things back)

Suspension and Chassis Mods -
BMR Front Strut Brace
BMR Rear Subframe Connectors
BMR Tunnel Brace Connector
Eibach Pro Series Lowering Springs

Wheels and Tires -
Lorenzo WL27 20" Wheels
Falken FK452 Tires Front - 20x8.5 Rear - 20x10
Nitrogen In Tires
Appearance Mods -
Custom Airbrushed Engine Cover
Custom Airbrushed Under Hood
Full Pontiac De-badge
Custom Rear Holden HSV Emblems
In-Dash Navigation
All Interior and Exterior Lights In LED
Custom Red Ambient Interior, Door and Floor lighting
Custom Headlamp Tinted With High Beam DRL Bulb and Audi LED Strip
55W 6000K DDM Tuning Slim Ballast HIDs
35W 6000K HID Fog Lamps
Evolution Auto GTS Front Bumper
Custom SLP Firehawk Paint Job
G2 White Brake Calipers with Aces
Custom 2 tone Painted GXP Rear Diffuser
Sharkfin Antenna
Custom Boston Acoustics Sound System with Custom Fire Extinguisher Mount, First Aid kit, and Multi Media System including 11" flat screen TV
Custom Interior Trunk Deck Lid Panel
Custom Flip Flop Trunk Hinges (UNDER CONSTRUCTION)
Custom "Holden Aces" License Plates
Custom Painted Interior Trim and Painted Stock Gauge Cluster
Custom Interior Door Panels with Aces Pin-Ups
Black Billet Stut Tower Covers
G8 Siloutte Fuse Panel Cover
Black Powder Coated Diamond Plate Floor Mats
2 Tone Leather Wraped Steering Wheel (UNDER CONSTURCTION)
2 Tone Leather Manual Shift Boot
2 Tone Leather Arm Rest Cover
Customer Center Dash Triple Guage Pod with GlowShift Transmission Temp, Oil Temp and Air/Fuel Wideband with Controller
...Coming Soon! Custom Rear Suicide Doors???, 3200 Stall Speed Converter, Camaro Rear Diff with 3.45 gears, DOD Delete Cam, Maggie hehe

1972 Ford Gran Torino

Mike's first car was a 1972 stripper 302 4door Torino, that his Dad bought for him when he was 15. Mike spent the next 2 years fixing it up. It was 23,00 miles and a dream, but, sadly, Mike cracked it up. He always said he would get another Torino, and when Mike got his first good paying job back in 98' he bought his 1972 Gran Torino Sport from a guy in Bridgeport, CT. His wife was making him get rid of the car and Mike drove it home.
Originally it was a 351c car but already had a 72 429(stroked to 460) in it but was quite tame.
Since then Mike added Aluminum heads, Hooker Headers, a Demon 850 Carb and a nice lumpy cam, and a stout race kit c6 tranny with 3.55's and a posi unit. And for the record, Mike had Clint Eastwood beat on this car for over a decade! Mike does plan on doing more in the future. Such as a T56 6speed swap or a tailshaft OD. The other is a set of drag radials. He has plenty of Horsepower, but not enough traction.
Mike always loved the coke bottle styling and the 70's NASCAR look. To Mike, they just don't make curves like that anymore. He drives the Torino often, and in the summer his regular "daily driver" doesn't get much use. Mike's motto, "drive it like you stole it." No trailer queens here!
Mike has had plenty of cars, and this Torino is not his only. He also currently owns a 1967 Ford Mustang GT Fastback, a 2005 Ford Mustang GT and a 1973 Mercury Cougar Convertible. It's safe to say any day he is driving a muscle car. Tough life, eh? So don't get used to seeing him in the same car for too long. But it's safe to say Mike is usually driving around in his Torino. And if you can't see it, you'll certainly be able to hear it!
Mike is one of the ultimate car guys, not just for having several, but he knows a lot about a lot and always has something going on. He also takes great camera shots! To speak to Mike today, go to our Members Section - MikeC.

1968 Oldsmobile HURST/OLDS

Back in 1996, Vinny was kicking around the idea of getting another toy to play around with in addition to his 1962 Olds Starfire. This was and still is Vinny's first love when it came to classic Oldsmobiles. He decided he would buy a clean straight 1986 Cutlass and prime the entire car in light gray primer and just for kicks, spray on the Hurst/Olds stripes and trunk in black primer. He'd look through Hemming’s and see that from time to time, there would be a few ads for 1968 Hurst/Olds’. In one issue he noticed that that there were 3 ads with 68 H/O’s, one was Bob Anderson’s ad which had 2 68’s for sale and the other ad was a simple 1 line ad “1968 Hurst/Olds $12,000 Rock Falls, IL.” Vinny called the number and spoke with the seller, Carl Brandt of Brandt’s Performance Engines who informed Vinny that the car had been in his family for a long time and that it was his son’s car but he lost interest in it. Carl took the car and used it mostly to run at Byron Raceway in Rockford, Illinois. 

In 1984 he did a “race car” restoration on it, by this he meant it looked awesome from the grandstands, but up close you could see that much of the glass and trim were hit with DA sanders, the car needed weather stripping and a lot of detail. At this time he also dropped in a supercharged 502 BBC and had the 68 running in the 9’s. 

Vinny guessed Carl was a purist of sorts, because he decided to go back with an Oldsmobile power plant. He took a 455 and bored it 125 over, offset ground the crank and fitted it with 455 Pontiac rods, Plymouth wrist pins and 454 Chevy pistons making it a 510 cid. He did some modifications to the block castings to get those rods to clear, and installed main studs. He also installed oil restrictors and enlarged the main bearing oil feed holes. He was running her with consistent 12:20’s with stock intake and exhaust manifolds. 

He used what Vinny believes are D heads (1 head has all external casting marks ground off) with Ford 429 rocker studs and Pontiac 1.65 rocker arms. he milled .125 off the rocker pedestals, installed Isky SBC guide plates, installed larger stainless exhaust valves and used Pontiac small valve spring (inside the Olds spring) to increase the open pressure to 300lbs. 

He told Vinny that the car still had the original OW transmission, but he toughened it up, added 13 extra clutches and a better shift kit. The car also had a 12 bolt Chevy with 2:73 positraction. Vinny asked about rust and bodywork and was told the car was very solid, but there was the typical lower fender rust that was cut out and replaced with new metal.

Vinny asked him if he was negotiable on the price in which he responded, “I’ll take $10,000”. So Vinny contacted Mike Brady and asked if he could go look at the car for him. He agreed to take the ride to Rock Falls, he looked it over and called Vinny back and said in so many words, “get here now and buy this car!” So Vinny made the drive from Long Island and bought it.

Later Vinny found out the history on this car from Karl Sarpolis. It was bought new on July 8th from Humphrey Cadillac Oldsmobile in Rockford, IL. It is Demmer car #511 and was sold to Wayne Garhart who was a Chrysler sponsored NHRA Driver. Vinny contacted his brother last year and he informed me that Wayne had raced the car up until 1971 when he retired and unfortunately drank himself to death a few years later.

When Vinny got the car home he had lots of fun with it! "That 510 ran great and with those highway gears and L50X15’s on the rear, she would still melt the 22” of rubber through the gears! The exhausts and mufflers ended right in front of the rear end with turn downs. Just driving down the streets here in NYC would set off an orchestra of car alarms!"

But there was on drawback to living here in NYC/Long Island… traffic! That 510 would run at 160*-180* all day long, but Vinny got stuck in our famous NY traffic, that temperature would climb up to 200* rather quickly.

Vinny started talking with his now good friend Karl Sup about doing an engine rebuild to replace the 510 inch. Karl informed him that he had a spare 455 block that came from a 69 H/O and was a low mileage short block. They came to an agreement and Karl sent everything out to the machine shop.

In February 2004, Vinny started to assemble the engine. What was good was that for the past few years he started gathering up all the correct parts. He  found a nice set of virgin D heads, 1111468 distributor, 7028255 carburetor, 400468 water pump, 398662 intake; all with correct date codes for the car. Besides the engine parts, he also located a rebuilt correct T3 rear with the correct 31 spline axles!

In 2005 he started to disassemble the 68. Pulled out the 510 and the TH400 and could not help but notice how disgusting and crusty the frame was. He  decided that he would wire brush, prime and paint the frame rails and the firewall. One day after Vinny had power washed the frame to remove any grease and grime, he had a revelation of sorts. The engine and transmission were already out, all that is left was to drop the gas tank, disconnect some lines and remove the body from the frame!

Vinny did this and sent out the frame and all the control arms and spindles and a bunch of other parts to the powdercoater. A few weeks later it was reassembly time. He finally finished the car in May of 2008 just in time for the NYC/Long Island Olds Club Spring Dust Off. In which his 68 took a second place trophy for his class!

The car still needs the same detail work mentioned, glass, and trim. The paint still looks awesome for being 24 years old plus. Vinny has been to a few local cruise nights and she has about 40 miles on her and runs great! Honestly, by looking at Vinny's car, some beg to differ about the car needing any further detail work. With such a great story came such a great American Classic Muscle Car. 

Crazy to think, but Vinny is actually putting his Oldsmobile up for sale. That's right, it's FOR SALE! Vinny says he doesn't really want to sell it, but he really wants to find a 1965 442. Whether or not that day ever comes, we know the car will be done just right when Vinny gets it. And whoever buys this 68' will be lucky! It's worth every penny. 

Vinny knows his stuff! So whenever you want to talk to him or get further information on the sale of his car, feel free to drop him a line in our Members Section - HURSTOLDZ