The team at BBT Fabrications took a bold approach in making this 1969 Camaro a true stand out. Commissioned by the current owner as a no-expense-spared build, nearly every panel has been customized or hand-fabricated from scratch. With over $700,000 and 5,000 hours of labor invested in the build, the "ELEV8" Camaro debuted at the 2019 SEMA Show, representing a remarkable fusion of classic styling, bespoke fabrication, and high-performance capability. As a 2020 PPG Street Machine of the Year Finalist, this one-of-a-kind build sets itself apart from the crowd with its innovative design, refined interior, and powerhouse performance. Additionally, the craftsmanship of Troy Gudgel was recognized when he was awarded the SEMA Good Guys Trendsetter of the Year in 2015. This makes the "ELEV8" Camaro one of the most distinguished 1969 Camaros available today.
Starting with a convertible, they fabricated a custom lift-off aluminum top covered in fabric rather than opting for a traditional folding mechanism. Weighing only 35 lbs, this custom top is both lightweight and functional. The Camaro underwent extensive metal modifications, including rear quarters widened by three inches on each side and tapered back to standard width at the doors. Other unique exterior touches include a hand-fabricated aluminum hood, shaved wheel vents, hand-fabricated front and rear valences, a custom-designed rear panel with one-off taillights, and custom CNC-machined door handles and mirrors. The bumpers were also custom-made for a seamless look, and the flush-fit glass further enhances the sleek profile. Then the entire car was finished in a brilliant coat of blue BASF paint, with 692 hours of prep and paint work completed by Dutchboys.
Inside, the cockpit features a custom, hand-fabricated dash and numerous one-off machined components. The instrumentation is based on a Dakota Digital HDX platform, seamlessly integrated through a Speartech wiring harness. This advanced dash includes smart electronics, such as indicating an open door and fuel range. The ididit tilting steering column is topped with a customized MOMO steering wheel with "ELEV8" branding. The seating setup is equally impressive, with modified BMW M4 seats reworked and upholstered in black leather with blue stitching. The interior received extensive attention, with over $35,000 spent on custom upholstery by Cato Custom Upholstery. Custom wiring enables smart operations such as the windows retracting 1/4" to clear the roof when the door opens. This blend of high-end materials and modern craftsmanship merges into a completely custom, one-of-one cockpit for a first-gen Camaro.
Underneath, this Camaro rides on a Roadster Shop Fast Track chassis. The independent front suspension includes Roadster Shop's upper and lower control arms, while the rear utilizes a large-diameter four-link setup with a Strange 9-inch rear end, 3.06 gear ratio, and posi-traction differential. Penske adjustable coilovers with Hyperco springs are positioned at all four corners, delivering an optimal blend of ride quality and track-ready performance. Stopping power comes from Baer's six-piston brake kit with 14-inch drilled and slotted rotors, with "ELEV8" branding on the black calipers.
Power comes from a Chevrolet Performance LT4 crate engine, the supercharged 6.2L V8 that was originally found in the C7 Corvette Z06. Producing a massive 650 horsepower, this powerplant is paired with a Bowler Performance-prepped Tremec T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission. The engine breathes through a dual exhaust system featuring stainless steel pipes and Borla mufflers that produce a muscular symphony. The car rides on center-lock GT3C Forgeline wheels, measuring 18x9.5 inches in the front and 19x12 inches in the rear, wrapped in Michelin Pilot Super Sport tires (265/35ZR18 front, 345/30ZR19 rear) for superior grip and handling.
The "ELEV8" Camaro is more than just a stunning showpiece-it's a testament to the artistry, engineering, and dedication that went into its creation. Every aspect of this build reflects an uncompromising commitment to excellence. With its presence at SEMA, recognition as a PPG Street Machine of the Year Finalist, and the legacy of award-winning craftsmanship, this one-of-a-kind 1969 Camaro stands as a benchmark for custom automotive innovation.
Key Highlights
Custom, ground-up build by award-winning builders at BBT Fabrications
2019 SEMA Roadster Shop Top 3 Finalist
2020 GoodGuys PPG Street Machine of the year Finalist (Top 5)
Each panel hand-fabricated or customized
Chevrolet Performance 6.2L supercharged LT4 V8 crate engine 650hp
Bowler Performance T56 Magnum 6-speed manual transmission
Roadster Shop chassis
Bentley Moroccan Blue Pearl exterior
Hand-fabricated removable, aluminum hard top
Hand-fabricated aluminum hood
Hand-fabricated dashboard and center console
Hand-fabricated front and rear fascias
CNC-machined door handles, mirrors, and interior knobs
Custom Black leather upholstery utilizing BMW M4 seats
Custom gauge cluster with Dakota Digital electronics
Forgeline GT3C center-lock wheels
Power four wheel Baer disc brakes
Power rack and pinion steering
Modern air conditioning
