What’s not to ‘love’ about a Chevrolet LUV? It’s definitely not a ‘me too’ ride one sees very often on the street, let alone in racing. These light utility vehicles (aka: LUV) are an instant conversation
starter and the center of attention when and if you actually come across one, especially when it is as easy on the eyes as Heath Hisle’s 1980 LUV. These mini-trucks hit the market in North America around the early 1970’s, entering the scene just as the compact truck market began growing in popularity. The first generation ended in 1980, although following generations continued on for quite some time.
Hisle’s LUV, dubbed Purple Rain—and reminiscent of the early Pro Modified movement—easily stands out in a sea of more commonly seen platforms in racing, however, it didn’t start life as a drag truck. Rather, Hisle hit the show circuit with Purple Rain on several occasions, but found that car shows just weren’t his thing.
“A Chevy LUV to most people is an overlooked little truck. To me though, I just love them. My dad owned one of them a long time ago when I was younger, and I always thought that if I could find a nice one later in life, I would buy it,” shared Hisle… Read more of this article. Just click on the digital feature below this introduction.
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