David Balkevitch’s 1972 Pontiac Ventura, affectionately called the “Angry Pumpkin,” started life as a humble gift with a big purpose. Purchased in 2012 from his friend David Pemberton, the Ventura was a wedding present for David to his wife. Its bright orange paint and classic muscle car vibe won over his wife, who preferred it to the white ’78 Trans Am he had in his stable. Initially intended as a fun street car and weekend racer, the Ventura evolved into a popular local favorite, not just for its performance, but the family-friendly charm as he decked it out in decorative themes at trunk-or-treats and charity events.
“My dad got me into cars, and I was always helping him out on his cars or his drag bike. I loved the sound of an all-motor muscle car. I do photography at local race tracks and had the urge to try out racing myself. Ihave been at it since 2006, when I started out with my old ’57 Chevy,” David explains.
The Angry Pumpkin name wasn’t just for show, as David says it definitely earned its reputation. “The previous owner called the car the ‘Pumpkin.’ When I got it, every time I used old parts, they either didn’t work or broke too early, and it was like the car was angry,” David shares. “The name just stuck, and it’s been the Angry Pumpkin ever since.” Built to be right at home on the strip and the street, the car is surprisingly approachable despite its demeanor, running consistent low 10-second quarter-mile times while retaining the feature comforts of its factory bench seats and everyday drivability.
The car’s heart is a built Butler Pontiac 535 cubic inch V8, assembled by Jamison Griffin at Griffin Engine Shop. Designed for pump gas with 10.4:1 compression, the engine features Edelbrock round-port heads flowing 330 cfm, a COMP Cams solid roller cam, and a 4500-series ported Edelbrock intake. Feeding the hungry beast is a Holley Gen 3 Dominator carburetor, delivering fuel through an Aeromotive system. Backing the engine is a TH400 transmission built by Rich Bewick, mated to a Coan 10-inch converter and TCI flywheel.
“It’s a car anyone can drive,” David says. “That’s what makes it special. It’s fun, comfortable, and still fast enough to be exciting.” The Ventura’s suspension setup further reinforces its dual-purpose utility. Up front, BMR tubular control arms work with stock shocks and springs, while the rear features CalTrac bars, Viking double-adjustable shocks, and mono leaf springs. The power is transmitted out to a Ford 9-inch rearend with a spool and 3.70 gears and makes it to the pavement through sticky Mickey Thompson 275/60R15 drag radials.
David’s affection for the Angry Pumpkin has been shaped in part by personal loss and the camaraderie of good friends who helped bring the project to life. David fondly remembers Keith Domjian, a close friend and mentor who passed away from COVID-19. “Keith was always there to help, whether it was rewiring a car or fixing a boat. He always said, ‘Do it right the first time, or don’t do it at all.’ That’s a philosophy I carry with this car,” David says.
Today, the Ventura garners attention for its unique theme, but it’s David’s dedication and the car’s character and bold hue that make it unforgettable. As he puts it, “It’s loved by many, hated by some, but the Angry Pumpkin never fails to turn heads.”