In automotive terms, a sleeper is a car which looks stock, plain and unassuming on the outside- with serious speed and horsepower lurking underneath, and we think we might have just found the ultimate definition of the breed.
This 1988 Chevrolet Sprint began life as GM’s entry level econocar, based on the Suzuki Cultus. With a tiny 1.0-liter 3-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, nobody would look twice in traffic, let alone size you up for a drag race.
To swap that out for Duttweiler Performance twin-turbo 402ci V8, through a GM TH350 gearbox and shortened Ford 9” differential might raise some eyebrows, however, to do all that while retaining the stock look is nothing short of sorcery.
Everything from the stock paint, to the 12” hubcaps, to the steering wheel and gear selector remain. It’s only when you see the rear tire width and bespoke firewall and floorpan from inside that it becomes apparent this car is possessed by a demon. Dynoed at 954HP on pump gas, the car is fully street legal and is listed by Autobarn Classic Cars for $44,995.
With the car’s light weight, compact dimensions and 88-inch wheelbase, it could be quite difficult to tame around corners, however, would certainly prove a fun and interesting drive. It’s not every day you find a sleeper of this caliber.
By Mitchell Jones