Ringbrothers Unveils 650-HP Billie Pontiac GTO

The custom 1965 GTO convertible was revealed at the 2026 SEMA show after more than 5,500 hours of work.

Updated on Nov. 2, 2026 in Car Culture

Photograph of a low-slung classic convertible with a widened red body and black carbon-fiber panels, parked alone on a polished concrete hall floor. — Ringbrothers unveiled its customized 1965 Pontiac GTO convertible, named Billie, at the 2026 SEMA show after more than 5,500 hours of work. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Ringbrothers revealed a customized 1965 Pontiac GTO convertible named Billie at the 2026 SEMA show. The build was commissioned by a customer who wanted to pay tribute to a GTO his mother once owned.

Why it matters

The project shows how a classic muscle car can be re-engineered with modern powertrain and chassis components while keeping its original identity. It also reflects the growing market for high-end, bespoke restomods built for personal and family significance.

Billie's supercharged 6.2-liter LT4 V-8 produces 650 horsepower and 650 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic from Bowler Performance. The body was widened by five inches, and the wheels measure 19 inches up front and 20 inches at the rear.

The players

Ringbrothers

Ringbrothers is a Wisconsin-based custom automotive shop known for high-end restomods and show cars.

The details

Billie started as a 1965 Pontiac Tempest before Ringbrothers widened the body, reshaped the front fenders, and lengthened the rocker panels. The car also received carbon-fiber doors, a carbon-fiber hood with billet-aluminum inserts, Brembo six-piston brakes, and a Roadster Shop Fast Track Stage III chassis.

Billie was revealed at the 2026 SEMA show.

Roadmap

Billie places a current-generation supercharged LT4 V-8 into a 1965 Pontiac body, extending the restomod trend of pairing modern GM powertrains with classic muscle styling. The project reflects how custom shops are increasingly using crate-era performance components to build high-output classics.

Billie demonstrates that a vintage muscle car can be rebuilt with modern performance and braking hardware for enthusiasts willing to commission a bespoke build. The project's cost and availability for similar work were not disclosed in the source.

The takeaway

Billie shows how a personal family connection can drive a complete re-engineering of a classic car. For enthusiasts, it is a reminder that custom builds can preserve heritage while delivering modern power and handling.