Velocity’s Chevrolet Blazer Restomod Is A Classic 4x4 With A Modern Heart

Another day, another restomod. This is the kind we’re particularly fond of, though: one that maintains a properly classic look on the outside whilst giving a thorough overhaul to everything underneath.

It comes from Florida-based restomodders Velocity, and at a glance, it looks just like a 1972 K5 Chevrolet Blazer, albeit one that’s been beefed up a little for off-road use. Underneath that boxy ’70s bodywork, though, it’s an entirely different story.

The K5 originally came with a range of anaemic, malaise-spec straight-sixes and V8s, but Velocity has dropped in a modern 6.2-litre Chevy LT1, paired here with GM’s high-performance 10-speed automatic. In standard form the LT1 makes 455bhp, but the addition of a performance exhaust system should uncork a little more power and sound.

To ensure the Blazer’s original fairly rudimentary chassis can cope with this newfound power, it has Fox coilover shocks and electrically assisted Wilwood disc brakes on all four corners. An aluminium fuel tank helps shed some weight, while a Dana 60 axle at the rear and a 44 at the front ensure the Blazer maintains its off-road cred.

While it still looks reasonably original outside, the headlights are now LED units, and all the glass and seals have been replaced. 18-inch alloy wheels are wrapped in 35-inch BF Goodrich all-terrain tyres.

It’s the interior where the biggest visual changes have happened: new seats, a digital instrument cluster and head unit, and a Focal sound system all contribute to an updated environment, while a heritage-look air-conditioning system helps maintain a retro style. A tilting steering wheel and power windows are nods to modern convenience.

Velocity’s take on the K5 Blazer doesn’t come cheap. Part of its Signature Series of restomods, this particular example will set you back $360,900 (approx. £286,000), with other Blazers going as high as $399,900 (approx. £317,000). While not overly shocking in the grand scheme of stratospheric restomod prices, it’s still a hefty chunk of cash, but the car looks to have been crafted with exacting attention to detail.

If you’re not a GM person, then Velocity can give similar treatments to classic Ford Broncos and International Scouts, as well as F-Series Ford pickups and first-gen Mustangs.