US manufacturer Chevrolet and thick V8 engines. At first glance, this seems to belong together like spaghetti and Bolognese. But far from it. With the manageably large and therefore relatively light S-10, the Americans took it easy in the 80s and 90s and offered a maximum of six cylinders. Too bad, because low weight and lots of power are a lot of fun!
A few private enthusiasts knew how to fill the gap that Chevrolet left at the time. See eBay! There’s a cool Chevrolet S-10 for sale with the V8 from a Chevrolet Corvette and a manual transmission. Price: 20,000 euros.
The pick-up was designed very tastefully and does not have any typical features.
A German master mechanic converted this Chevrolet S-10
When you first look at the ad, the pictures catch your eye. They not only show a visually tasteful pick-up without the typical abnormalities. They mainly show German license plates! This suggests that the conversion to V8 has already been approved and registered. So the potential new owner buys a hopefully well-made car with all the necessary papers.
Under the hood lives the 5.7 liter power plant from the Corvette. The LT1 has 306 hp as standard.
This impression could be supported by the information that the car was completely restored in Germany. Apparently someone disassembled the Chevy and completely rebuilt it. Under the hood babbles a 5.7-liter LT1-V8 from the Corvette C4 with at least 306 hp. The engine was overhauled and fitted with new bearings. There is also a five-speed manual transmission and a rear axle with lock.
In the back, the Chevy has Monoleaf leaf springs. An aluminum cooler from Mishimoto with electric fans should give the V8 enough air to breathe. The coilover suspension can be adjusted in rebound and compression at the front and rear. The interior, including the dashboard, was leather-covered by a saddler. The seller describes the Chevrolet as perfectly suitable for everyday use and, if desired, as fast as hell.
According to the information, a saddler covered the interior of the Chevrolet with leather at great expense.
You should look at this before buying the Chevrolet
A unique vehicle like the offered Chevrolet S-10 should be examined carefully before buying. Of course, that applies to every used vehicle. But especially with extensive conversions, paying attention protects against unpleasant surprises: Has the car actually been approved by the TÜV including the conversion? Which master mechanic installed the engine? What experience does this master have? Is it possible to speak to him? Have the conversion and restoration been documented?
The integrated video shows details of another V8 conversion and gives an impression of the effort:
Opel Omega B Caravan V8 (2021): Tuning – LS1 – Corvette – PS
Omega with 450 hp V8 naturally aspirated engine and an exciting past life
The adjustable chassis components beg to be tried out on a test drive. Do they harmonize with the vehicle? Do they match your own expectations of driving comfort? The seller writes in the ad that the pick-up can be driven over long distances with around 13 liters. That sounds humane, but still wants to be financed. Do you have enough fuel resources in your wallet?
Chevrolets are technically unproblematic. Engine, transmission, chassis and co are not complex and can withstand a lot. The bodies are not immune to rot and should be cared for. But the Mercedes W 124 could also cost.
