Billie is a custom 1965 Pontiac Tempest convertible transformed into an aggressive GTO tribute, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V8 producing 650 horsepower. The classic muscle car combines vintage Pontiac styling with modern performance upgrades, a custom chassis and a redesigned interior while preserving the sentimental value of the original vehicle.
A Classic Pontiac Reimagined
Billie began life as a 1965 Pontiac Tempest convertible before being converted into a GTO tribute by a previous owner. The car was later given to the mother of its current owner, who wanted it rebuilt and reimagined without sacrificing its emotional significance.
After 5,500 hours of work, the car has undergone an extensive transformation while retaining its classic character.
The body is five inches wider than stock, with modifications extending throughout the vehicle rather than relying solely on wider fenders. The result is a lower, more aggressive appearance without exaggerated proportions.
HRE wheels measuring 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear complete the stance and provide additional traction. Despite the extensive modifications, Billie can still appear nearly original when viewed on its own.
Supercharged LT4 V8 Produces 650 Horsepower
Under the hood, Billie features a GM LT4 V8 from Wegner Motorsports. The supercharged 6.2-liter engine produces 650 horsepower and an equal torque figure, delivering substantial performance while keeping the car manageable on the road.
The build focuses on creating a powerful muscle car that can be driven and enjoyed rather than pursuing extreme performance figures.
A 10-speed automatic transmission handles shifting, while a custom exhaust system incorporates Flowmaster components.
Upgraded Chassis, Suspension and Brakes
The performance upgrades extend beyond the engine. Billie features a Roadster Shop chassis, Fox coilover suspension and six-piston Brembo brakes.
These components support the car’s handling and stopping capabilities, helping make it a genuinely driveable classic rather than simply a high-powered show car.
Custom Interior Combines Classic Styling and Modern Technology
The interior has received extensive modifications to complement the exterior transformation. The dashboard sits four inches farther forward and two inches lower, while custom-machined aluminum trim adds a distinctive finish.
Vintage Air provides climate control, and the radio retains the appearance of a vintage Pontiac component. Behind its restored faceplate, however, is modern Bluetooth technology.
The car also features GTO components, including steering wheels and marker lights, that are available for other vehicles.
Billie’s paint is a custom color created specifically for the car using BASF Glasurit materials.
Billie Joins a Lineup of Custom Muscle Cars
The build follows a tradition of bringing extensively modified classic vehicles to the SEMA show.
Previous projects include Kingpin, a Coyote-powered 1969 Mustang, along with an ultra-aggressive Cuda, a 1972 Blazer and a 1987 Grand National.
With its widened body, supercharged V8 and modern mechanical upgrades, Billie delivers a distinctive combination of classic Pontiac styling and contemporary muscle car performance.
