The 1969 Pontiac GTO owned by Kevin Hart, nicknamed “Chocolate Droppa,” is a stunning pro-touring restomod built by Detroit Speed & Engineering (DSE) in Mooresville, North Carolina. While no single engineer is explicitly named as the sole mastermind behind the project, the build was a collaborative effort led by a talented team at DSE, with key contributions from individuals such as Zach Arlen, Jason Eads, David Hoff, Curtis Larsen, Bruce Datkuliak, James Seamans, and Nate Peterman, along with external support from Michael Neighbors, Austin Moore, and Josh Smith. One engineer from the DSE team is specifically noted for designing the lower grilles and front valence to mimic the GTO’s iconic grille, creating a seamless and factory-like aesthetic.
The project, which took three years to complete, began with Hart’s vision, developed in collaboration with illustrator Travis Highlander to define the car’s aesthetic. The engineering focus was on blending classic style with modern performance while avoiding over-the-top modifications that could compromise the GTO’s timeless design. A standout engineering achievement was the integration of a supercharged 6.2L LT5 V8 crate engine, producing 755 horsepower, paired with a Bowler Performance T56 Magnum six-speed transmission and a Detroit Speed Ford 9-inch rear end. To accommodate the LT5’s supercharger, the team subtly extended the hood scoops by 2.5 inches, ensuring clearance without disrupting the car’s iconic lines.
Another significant engineering feat was the replacement of the problematic Endura bumper with a steel Pontiac LeMans bumper, retrofitted with GTO hideaway headlights and Holley RetroBright headlights for a factory-like fit. The front valence was extensively modified, with 3D-printed inserts and a custom sheet-metal peak to eliminate the license plate area, enhancing the car’s sleek profile. The team also tightened body gaps, tucked the bumpers, and reworked the rear spoiler to align with the car’s contours, showcasing meticulous attention to detail.
The suspension was upgraded with DSE’s X-Gen 595 front suspension module and a custom QuadraLink rear suspension, paired with JRi adjustable coilover shocks, HRE Valkyria wheels, and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires for superior handling. Baer Brakes with 15-inch R-Spec rotors and XRT six-piston calipers ensured stopping power. The interior, crafted by Avant-Garde Design, featured a custom console and dashboard, with engineering input from DSE to integrate modern amenities like Vintage Air Gen IV A/C and a modified American Autowire harness.
While Zach Arlen is mentioned as a key figure in discussions about the build process, the engineer responsible for specific design elements, like the front grille and valence, remains unnamed in available sources. The collective expertise of DSE’s team, guided by Hart’s vision and their commitment to precision, resulted in a GTO that debuted at the 2023 SEMA Show as a masterpiece of engineering and style, balancing raw power with refined aesthetics.
