A SPEC Stage 2 clutch and pressure plate were needed to contain the spunky Gen III motor, which scoots to redline with help from a GM lightweight flywheel. The stock driveshaft and 10-bolt rear are more than sufficient for the prototype's normal street driving and high G-maneuvers, however the stock brakes have been upgraded with C5 front calipers and Stainless Steel Brakes slotted rotors at all four corners. This has proved invaluable at Road Atlanta when Year One's Pat Staton takes on passengers upon request for a few Parade Laps. Though its primary duty is this kind of PR, the Formula has made its way down the dragstrip once or twice, and managed mid 12-second e.t.'s at 115 mph. However, GMMG says one of its customers managed an 11.76 e.t. with a set of slicks, and the same results could be expected from any Phase II Formula. Shades of the baddest 427-cid Baldwin Motion and Nickey Chevrolet Camaros from the late '60s and early '70s-with full exhaust, A/C, and power everything. What more could you ask?
A Hurst shifter, Year One embroidered two-tone leather seat covers, and white face gauges with both 35th anniversary and Year One logos make this Formula's interior an obvious departure from stock. |  |  |
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The Year One prototype is one of two, the second being this black Formula, which boasts the same engine specs despite a slight difference in badging. GMMG went on to produce 14 total Year One Formulas, however a change over on the production models to TEA heads and a different spec cam allowed 475- and 500-horse versions. |