It’s highly unlikely that GM’s designers and engineers originally imagined the Chevy Blazer as a high-powered, corner-carving performance machine. However, with the right parts and know-how, even this iconic SUV can slice up the autocross with the best of them. Now, we’re getting the low-down on all the goodies poured into this wild 1,000-horsepower Blazer built from the ground up to do exactly that.
The video comes to us from the folks at AutotopiaLA, and features a 1973 Chevy Blazer owned and driven by David Carroll. Originally purchased from a private seller in Idaho back in 2020, this Blazer was previously a hunting rig and was initially set to be restored to a more original 4×4 configuration. However, after discovering a fair amount of rust under the skin, the project took a sharp turn, with Dave instead opting for a full-blown motorsport build.
Under the hood, the Blazer runs a Gen 5 LT 5.3L V8 with a polished crank and reworked heads. The engine also features dual fuel systems (port and direct injection) operated by two ECUs, delivering 1,000 horsepower at peak boost and about 850 horsepower to the wheels. Providing the air are twin 56mm Turbonetics turbos, with boost control via a Turbosmart setup for on-the-fly adjustability. A Tremec Magnum F six-speed transmission, McLeod twin-disc clutch, and aluminum flywheel send power to a built nine-inch rear end with Millerbuilt full-floater axles. A custom four-inch aluminum driveshaft handles the torque transfer.
Externally, the Blazer is fitted with a custom front splitter, which includes a quick-release mechanism for easy transport. The hood is a lightweight fiberglass piece from Autofab, modified with custom vents. The body also includes tucked factory bumpers and a custom rear tailgate to save weight. The SUV rides on custom 19 by 12 Jongbloed three-piece wheels wrapped in 315-wide Falken RT660s, and benefits from No Limit bolt-on suspension with Viking triple-adjustable coilovers. Braking is handled by 14-inch Wilwood rotors and six-piston calipers, with a BMW MK60 ABS system integrated for better control.
Inside, Dave kept much of the original interior trim, blending nostalgia with performance upgrades like PRP off-road seats, a digital Autometer dash, custom center console, and a full ARC Audio sound system.
Check out the full build, including what it’s like to drive on the street, right here:
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