Since unleashing 470 ft-lbs of torque on the stock drivetrain and suspension wouldn't be very fair or realistic, GMPP teamed up with GTO-specialists BMR Fabrication. The use of BMR subframe connectors and drag bags as well as a Harrop differential cover and polyurethane rear cradle bushings stop axle-breaking wheelhop in its tracks. As added insurance, BMR Billet 300M Heavy Duty CV Shafts and Axle Stubs provide a shot of steroids to the IRS. A BMR aluminum driveshaft, safety loop, and strut tower brace are also thrown on for good measure. To date there have been no driveline issues despite possessing a Tremec T56 with a stock LS7 clutch and pressure plate, which is surprising given GMPP's propensity to hand over the keys to maverick magazine editors who aren't shy about power shifting the GTO on the streets of Roanoke, Virginia, during last year's Power Tour. The finger impressions on the door handles are probably still there from the engineer riding shotgun. That is to be expected, though, when a one-two shift pitches you sideways on a main avenue going through the middle of town. (Note: GMHTP does not in any way condone dangerous driving on public roads. The actions discussed herein by the author are those of a truly unstable individual, whose employment is the only thing keeping him from being locked up.)
Believe it or not, the Goat averaged 26 mpg on Power Tour, which put GMPP's 572 big-block-powered '70 Chevelle project car to shame. After having experienced firsthand not only the awesome power, but the reliability and drivability of the LS7 GTO that was identical to a stock vehicle-few criticisms could be made of the LS7 swap. It is hard to find another 500-horse motor that starts, runs, drives, and idles as perfectly as this.
As indicative of a true GM test car, you will notice a few mismatched parts such as the Chevy logo on the steering wheel. The interior is otherwise stock aside from a Holden short throw shifter and GMPP gauges. |  | 
Quite a bit of work went into modifying the LS7 oilpan to fit with the stock engine cradle, which unfortunately does not have a tubular counterpart in the aftermarket. |
GMPP liquid-filled water temperature and oil pressure gauges are housed in a custom pod where the center console and dashboard mate. | 
The rear end has been beefed up considerably with BMR billet CV Shafts and Stub Axles, Harrop cradle bushings and differential cover, and a KAAZ limited slip differential to withstand the LS7's 470 ft-lbs of torque. BMR subframe connectors and Drag Bags also do their part to stop wheelhop, which is most often the culprit behind broken IRS components. | |