Legendary Auto Interiors’ New ’70-72 Monte Carlo Line

When one thinks of muscle cars from the early seventies, we’re the first to admit that the Monte Carlo nameplate doesn’t top the list that usually pops into our collective minds. Still, if you know anyone that is an enthusiast of these first generation coupes, you’ll also know that absolutely nothing you could ever say would sway their faith.

As it happens, the Monte Carlo was first designed as an offset to Pontiac’s 1969 Grand Prix and this leads to an interesting point. In 1968, GM Management had decreed that the intermediate (A-body) cars would use an appropriate wheelbase, according to the model. So, two door models would ride on a 112-inch wheelbase, while sedans would run on 116-inches and station wagons would use a 121-inch platform.

While much of the structure came from the Grand Prix, some of the sheet metal of the Monte Carlo was shared with the Chevelle of the day, styling cues were shamelessly stolen from the Cadillac El Dorado by Chevrolet chief stylist, Dave Holls, and authorized by general manager Pete Estes. The result was a dramatically different car that struck a responsive chord with the motoring public.

While many collectors are now shifting their sights beyond the classic muscle car period, the early Monte Carlos likely remain an undervalued buy for the most astute among us. One problem that has hampered the realization, though, has been a lack of high quality restoration parts for these cars.

That issue is now on the way out, according to recent news from Legendary Auto Interiors, out of Newark, NJ.

First established in 1985, the company has built its business on supplying the highest quality, most authentic reproduction parts available. Seat upholstery features correct vinyl weight with channeled foam for accurate surface contours, reinforced seams, as-original pleat construction and heavyweight backing for durability.

Door panels feature original style die/electric heat sealed seams and precision cut filler boards assembled to heavy weight back boards for durability. Correct location cutouts and knockouts provide effortless installation and 3/8-inch channel depth provides the highest level of authenticity.

About the author

Don Roy

Don's background includes 14 years in the OEM and Tier2 domestic auto industry, as well as three years as Technical Editor of a muscle car enthusiast print magazine. He is a mechanical engineer by trade and completed his first project car when he was 16 years old - after rebuilding the engine in his bedroom. His hobbies include photography, film making and building the odd robot from time to time.
Read My Articles

Hot Rods and Muscle Cars in your inbox.

Build your own custom newsletter with the content you love from Street Muscle, directly to your inbox, absolutely FREE!

Free WordPress Themes
Street Muscle NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

We'll send you the most interesting Street Muscle articles, news, car features, and videos every week.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Street Muscle NEWSLETTER - SIGN UP FREE!

We will safeguard your e-mail and only send content you request.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...


fordmuscle
Classic Ford Performance
dragzine
Drag Racing
chevyhardcore
Classic Chevy Magazine

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Thank you for your subscription.

Subscribe to more FREE Online Magazines!

We think you might like...

  • fordmuscle Classic Ford Performance
  • dragzine Drag Racing
  • chevyhardcore Classic Chevy Magazine

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

streetmusclemag

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Street Muscle - The Ultimate Muscle Car Magazine

Thank you for your subscription.

Thank you for your subscription.

Loading