Detroit Speed & Engineering Unveils Restoration of Kevin Hart’s 1969 Pontiac GTO

Detroit Speed & Engineering, part of Holley Inc., are both unveiling their latest celebrity car, or “restomod,” at the 2023 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas that runs through Friday.
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1969 Pontiac GTO
Comedian Kevin Hart’s “restomod” 1969 Pontiac GTO incorporates many of Holley’s leading aftermarket solutions. // Photo courtesy of Holley

Detroit Speed & Engineering, part of Holley Inc., are both unveiling their latest celebrity car, or “restomod,” at the 2023 Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) show in Las Vegas that runs through Friday.

The three-year project, commissioned by comedian and actor Kevin Hart, involved a complete custom rebuild of Hart’s 1969 Pontiac GTO, transforming the classic muscle car into a combination of pro-touring excellence with powerhouse performance.

Hart’s vehicle made its debut during the SEMA Monday Reveal, a prominent pre-show event that offered a glimpse at the aftermarket’s future, spotlighting what’s next in some of the most advanced vehicle designs and builds.

It was one of only 12 vehicles included in the program. The vehicle is now on display in Holley’s SEMA booth (#22463) in Central Hall, where attendees can view the exceptional vehicle firsthand.

“With a collection of high-performance classics revered around the world, we were honored to work with Kevin Hart on his latest masterpiece and are excited to see our work showcased on the world’s largest aftermarket stage,” says John McLeod, director of Detroit Speed & Engineering.

“We worked closely with Kevin to deliver a custom rebuild that celebrates the timeless appeal of the 1969 Pontiac GTO, captures his individual passions and spirit, and incorporates many of Holley’s leading aftermarket solutions.”

Hart, a car collector and enthusiast, has nearly a dozen custom-built cars as part of his collection. He selected Detroit Speed & Engineering for his latest build.

“This ‘69 GTO was purchased by me for a close friend who wasn’t a classic car fan and instead of returning such a great muscle car, I decided to build it into a ‘restomod,’” says Hart. “I chose Detroit Speed & Engineering to build the GTO because when it came to fit and functionality, their name was always mentioned.

“From knowledge to creativity, the Detroit Speed & Engineering team checks all the boxes. I’m excited about the work that was performed on my classic.”

Hart’s 1969 Pontiac GTO features a Chevrolet Performance LT5 6.2L Supercharged-755 horsepower engine, Bowler Performance T56 transmission, and JRi Adjustable Coilover Shocks. The vehicle is equipped with HRE Valkyria wheels and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S performance tires.

The front and rear bumpers, hood, front valance, and spoiler are just a few of the modifications made by the Detroit Speed & Engineering team to achieve the desired aesthetic and vehicle dynamics.

1969 Pontiac GTO interior
The interior of Kevin Hart’s “restomod” 1969 Pontiac GTO. // Photo courtesy of Holley

Additionally, Hart’s vehicle leverages a number of aftermarket parts and components manufactured by Holley-owned businesses, including Detroit Speed Universal X-Gen 595 Suspension; Detroit Speed custom QUADRALink Rear Suspension; Classic Instruments gauges; Baer Brakes 15” R-Spec rotors with XRT 6-piston calipers; GearFX Ford 9” rear end utilizing 3.82 ratio; Holley Premium Mid-Mount Complete Accessory Drive System; Detroit Speed Aluminum Battery Mount; Holley RetroBright Headlights; and a Hurst Shifter.

Click here to learn more about the vehicle build from Detroit Speed & Engineering.

For more information about Holley, visit holley.com/.