Apology to Chevy Supercar purists

[Jeff H]

No reason to apologize for a meaningful thread like the GTO one. This is how we find out information and I think we're lucky to get insight from people like Jim M. But I'm still wandering what the "N15" code stands for on both those sheets next to the "SPEC EQUIP".

[55chevy]

I added to it... so I can't bitch.. [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/headbang.gif[/img]

[JoeC]

64 GTO is a cool car and should get credit as a leader in Muscle car history but I think the 1963 421 Tempest was a real hot rod and should get more credit as first muscle car. Although it was low volume, it fits muscle car definition as small car with big engine as compared to the '63 Z-11 big car big engine. (musclebarge)

[olredalert]

JoeC,

------Yes the 63 Tempest 421s were very fast cars and set in motion things to come.However,as delivered,they were definetly not useable for much of anything.The rope driveshaft and transmission-rear end set up were woefully inept for almost any use.I dont know of any racer that could keep one together,or make one run in as delivered condition.Arnie B told me one time that he just shook his head the first time he looked underneath one,and we all know what he did to his almost immediatly upon recieving it.
------I have a friend who had a brand new 326 3spd (only standard trans available) convertible and his was always in the shop for one drivetrain problem or another.That engine was 250hp.Can you imagine what the 421 would do.I know the trans was upgraded but,as delivered it wasnt near enough!
-----They are a great looking little car though and when modified with the correct trans location and rear-end they make for a great package..........Bill S

[JoeC]

Bill,
That trans set up was ahead of its time but did have some problems.
Do you know what trans set up was used on the Ray Nicklos 421 Tempest that won the race at Daytona Speed Weeks 1963. It beat the 427 Corvette MKII, Ferraris and other exotic cars. AJ Foyt was second in a Z06.

[Eddie M.]

Beings I was riding bicycle's around the time of those cool cars. that thread was a great history lesson for me [img]/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/worship.gif[/img]

[olredalert]

JoeC,

-----I remember the car and the race,but dont remember the configuration of the Tempest.I would be interested to know.Would have been a cool race to experience.
-----Right around that era I did go to the Sebring 12hr(I think I was 15 or so) and actually held Donna Mae Mims up on the wall to watch the start.That made such an impression on me I have forgotten what Don was racing that year!........Bill S