Take a look at this, Monza’s Split Bumper Camaro Nearing Completion & Ready for 2026!
Fans of Street Outlaws have been eagerly tracking updates on Jerry “Monza” Johnston’s legendary Split Bumper Camaro, and recent footage shows the car closer than ever to completion with a fresh rebuild, striking new look, and serious performance upgrades aimed at the 2026 season.
Known across the 405 and outlaw drag racing circles for his iconic black Split Bumper Camaro, Monza has been meticulously rebuilding the car after a period of limited racing and significant offseason work. The latest video coverage highlights the car’s massive weight loss, new chassis progression, and updated power combo — signaling that the Camaro will be ready for battle once racing resumes in 2026.
🔥 Massive Weight Loss and New Look
In recent video updates, Monza’s team showcased a complete makeover of the Split Bumper Camaro. According to coverage:
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The body is being refreshed with a clean, updated aesthetic that still honors the fan-favorite look of the original build.
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Structural improvements and new panels are contributing to a noticeable weight reduction, which is crucial for better launches and traction on both prep and no-prep surfaces.
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Fans have responded positively to the Camaro’s refreshed appearance, which blends classic aggression with a sharp new finish.
This visual and functional revamp is part of Monza’s plan to ensure his Camaro isn’t just competitive, but dominant once competition ramps up in 2026.
🏁 New Power Upgrades and Engine Focus
One major talking point around the Split Bumper build is the updated powerplant. According to public engine announcements:
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PLR (Pro Line Racing) 481X engine has been unveiled in the Sinister Split Bumper Camaro, giving the car a massive performance boost.
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Monza’s focus on modern, high-output combinations shows his intention to keep pace with the increasingly competitive small-tire and no-prep fields — where power integration and reliability are key.
This power combination is designed not just for straight-line speed, but for consistent repeatable launches that judges and fans alike expect in top outlaw racing competition.
🔥 Chassis and Build Updates Nearing Completion
Recent coverage indicates that Monza’s Camaro is well into completion, with significant chassis and build work done:
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A fresh chassis is being finished and prepped for final assembly.
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Suspension geometry, mounts, and major structural elements are being aligned for optimal traction performance — essential when 1,000+ horsepower is on tap.
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Teams are finalizing details that will make the Camaro track-ready for the upcoming season, including bracket safety equipment, mounting points, and tuning access.
All indications from the leaked footage are that the build is in its finishing stages — not years of fabrication, but days or weeks away from being race-ready.
🚗 Monza’s Legacy and Competitive Goals for 2026
Jerry “Monza” Johnston has been one of the most recognizable figures in Street Outlaws, known for his calm demeanor behind the wheel and his aggressive Camaro builds that have punched into high positions on the 405’s Top 10 List.
The Split Bumper Camaro has long been his signature machine:
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Twin-turbo and large-displacement combos have made it a fan favorite.
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It stands as one of the most iconic small-tire cars in the series.
Now, with a refreshed look, lighter weight, bigger power combo, and a near-finished chassis, Monza looks poised to make serious noise once the 2026 racing kicks off — whether that’s No Prep Kings, outlaw street events, or independent shootouts.
🔥 What This Means for Fans and Competition
The nearing completion of Monza’s Split Bumper Camaro holds several implications:
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Fan Excitement: Longtime followers of the show and drag racing fans are eagerly awaiting the car’s return to competition.
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List Position Potential: If Monza can translate the rebuild into repeatable performance, Top 10 List contention is a real possibility.
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Outlaw Scene Impact: A refreshed Split Bumper Camaro adds depth to the increasingly competitive small-tire and no-prep fields heading into 2026.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Ready for 2026
After months of anticipation, Monza’s famous Split Bumper Camaro is closer to full completion than ever before — with aesthetics, power, and chassis upgrades all progressing toward a race-ready state. Fans of Street Outlaws and warped horsepower alike have good reason to mark this machine down as one of the most exciting returns of the upcoming season.
