This is the first batch of restomod models with the seal of GM engineering; the auction is being promoted by CARDE
In December, Chevrolet started an auction action of classic models of the brand. At the time, a 1994 Omega CD Irmscher was the big attraction. Now the American manufacturer announces that two of its most iconic models will be in the marketing system. Two Opal characterized SS from the 1970s and the S10 competition that won the Sertões Rally.
The auction is scheduled for May 2, in Campos do Jordão, with face-to-face participation and online bidding. Part of the proceeds will be allocated to philanthropic actions. In addition, the cars will be on display to the public days before the event, at the museum itself. Those who want to see the cars up close can do so from Saturday, April 18, along with other vehicles in the auction.
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According to the manufacturer, the movement is more than valuing rare cars and “aims to preserve the brand’s automotive legacy and share it with the public, transforming each one of them into a tribute to the memory and passion for national classics.”
The program’s differential is the seal of GM’s engineering, which designs, supervises and dynamically validates each project at the Cruz Alta Proving Ground, in Indaiatuba (SP).
The Opal is Chevrolet’s most cult classic and therefore the one chosen to have two units selected by the Vintage, a yellow 1976 and a green 1979, in honor of the predominant colors of the Brazilian flag. Both are characterized as SS and bring the same mechanical specifications, in the best restomod style, when the vehicle preserves its visual and emotional identity, but brings mechanical and style updates.
The driving experience is also unique, thanks to the suspension with Bilstein shock absorbers, while the set gained more precise steering, high-performance disc brakes, an updated 4.1L engine with FuelTech electronic injection and a five-speed Tremec transmission. All this translates into a more powerful, reliable and durable vehicle for frequent use on a daily basis.
The interior combines modern comfort and respect for the SS identity: three-point belts with reinforced anchorage, redesigned dashboard with LED lighting maintaining original appearance, and radio with discreetly integrated Bluetooth. Air conditioning and power steering complete the list of conveniences that transform cars into options for daily use, without giving up the classic aura.
Among the designer items that reinforce the exclusivity of the project are the 15-inch alloy wheels, the Lotse sports steering wheel and the seats covered in genuine leather, inspired by period accessories. They bring solid paint to exalt the essence of a muscle car, preserving the tradition of this segment, as well as in the legendary Camaro and Corvette, which have marked generations with the use of flat colors from their birth to today.
The restoration process was handmade, combining traditional techniques with current high-end features, such as laser welding. The “0 km” aspect is reinforced in details such as new greenish glass, satin black friezes and door handles, in addition to the original panel with dials still sealed in factory packaging.
The S10 Rally 2004 is one of the most remarkable vehicles in Chevrolet’s history in Brazil. It is one of the original units that were part of the official GM team in the traditional rally in the late 1990s and early 2000s — and that won victories in competitions, such as the Sertões Rally, one of the most important off-road races in South America.
More than a classic pickup truck, it represents a legitimate competition car that helped cement the S10’s reputation for ruggedness, reliability and off-road performance.
Fully restored within the Vintage Chevrolet program, the pickup preserves the main period solutions, such as a roll cage, structural reinforcements and mechanical adaptations designed to face the harshest trails in the country.
The recovery included the 2.8 MWM turbodiesel engine, remade by the same team of the original supplier that prepared the engine for the competition, and the five-speed Eaton transmission. A set that, in the competition configuration, exceeded 300 hp. This special preparation, aimed exclusively at the rally, was never offered commercially, which reinforces the unique and historic character of this unit.
One of the technical highlights of the restoration is the adequacy of the engine’s torque curve to allow use outside the competition environment, by ensuring power at low revs and smoother responses. At its peak performance, at just 2,000 revolutions, 50 kgfm are sent to the rear wheels, offering more balanced handling without losing vigor.
Now adapted for urban use, the Vintage Project’s S10 Rally retains original components that have secured its FIA homologation, including bucket seats and five-point belts. Some marks of use were preserved as a historical record of their participation in the races, while the livery was redone to celebrate GM’s 100th anniversary in Brazil, with the addition of commemorative stickers and the OnStar and AC Delco brands.
Locating the original unit was also a challenge in itself. After months of research, the pickup was found in Minas Gerais, just as it finished its last race.
