Stepping away from the ubiquitous LS-swap trend, this 1986 Chevrolet Monte Carlo SS features an unexpected cross-breed powertrain: a supercharged Dodge Hellcat V-8. Built by Jeff Schwartz and his team at Schwartz Performance in Harvard, Illinois, the project originated from an owner who loved both Mopar performance and ’80s G-body styling. Because the G-body platform is significantly lighter than factory Hellcat models, combining the two created a uniquely potent, lightweight muscle car.
To accommodate the oversized Mopar drivetrain and massive interior components, Schwartz Performance mounted the body on a custom G-machine chassis equipped with a Flaming River 12:1 rack, Ridetech coilovers, and 14-inch Baer Pro-Plus disc brakes. Custom metalwork was extensive—from the firewall, transmission tunnel, and floorboards to large mini-tubs designed to tuck massive 20×10-inch front and 22×13-inch rear Bonspeed wheels wrapped in Lamborghini-sourced Pirelli rubber. Under the hood, the E85-tuned Hellcat engine features CNC-ported heads, a custom blower cam, upgraded pulleys, 1,200cc injectors, and a Mopar ECU. It routes an incredible 829 horsepower and 775 lb-ft of torque to the rear wheels via an eight-speed Mopar HHP90 automatic transmission.
Inside, the cabin blends classic GM layout with modern Challenger ergonomics, including custom-stitched “SSRT” black leather and suede seats, a Holley 12.3-inch digital dash, Vintage Air conditioning, and a Pioneer audio setup. The exterior is finished with custom-painted graphics and custom emblems mimicking the original GM badge style.
Original article written by Steven Rupp with photography by Matt Lankford, as featured in Hot Rod Magazine.
The vehicle is for sale @ https://www.cruz.com/vehicle/used-1985-chevrolet-monte-carlo-ss/cary-il/6a7edc78ae235d0f0ffb9de5
Images credited to Illionois Motors
