Building a custom car is very rarely easy, and the more extensive the customization, the more difficult it can be. Nevertheless, Ironworks Speed and Custom in Bakersfield, California aims to streamline the build process through repeatable custom cars, providing consistent quality without the lengthy lead time. Now, we’re checking out this supercharged 1970 Oldsmobile Cutlass, one of the latest Ironworks customs to follow this faster build strategy.
According to Ironworks owner Roger Lee, the goal of these builds is to create high-quality custom cars without the delays and uncertainties of a traditional one-off project. This production-line approach allows the shop to refine the design, eliminating issues that might arise in the build process. The result is a car that feels like an OEM vehicle, but with the performance and style of a fully customized build.
For this Oldsmobile Cutlass build, the whole project took about eight months to complete, a significant reduction from a typical custom car build timeline that can extend for years.
The Oldsmobile Cutlass build features the supercharged 6.2L V8 LT4 engine, a popular powerplant also found in GM models like the Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing, Cadillac Escalade-V, and C7-generation Corvette Z06. The LT4 is matched with a 10-speed transmission, as well as custom coil covers that were painted blue to give it the look of classic Oldsmobile valve covers. The engine bay also shows off gorgeous carbon fiber inner fenders and custom badging.
Under the body panels, this Oldsmobile Cutlass is riding on independent rear suspension with JRi shocks and custom valving developed in collaboration with Ultimate Performance, as well as a set of 14-inch Wilwood brakes to help slow it down. A set of machined Forgeline wheels roll in the corners, staggered at 19 inches in diameter in front and 20 inches in the rear, wrapped in Michelin rubber sized at 285 and 345, respectively.
The whole thing looks fantastic, and per the video host, is a real blast to drive. Check it out for yourself right here:
Comments
If big wheels is what it takes to keep up interest in muscle cars, I’m out.
Lots to like in the car, but a lot NOT to like.
I appreciate all the upscale modern ammenities, and I’m sure that is one smooth ride. That being said, I prefer the original muscle. I love the feel of the 500 ft lb of torgue out of my ’70 W-30’s 455! That 442 looks like it is also Nugget Gold, as is mine. I’d take one of these cars, but wouldn’t shell out the $450k though!
On a different view, the mid-sized GM cars were all great looking. Be it the Cutlass, Skylark, GTO, or Chevelle. All from the same manufacturer er. That was quite a fete.