Restomod or Not

Restomod

When automobile aficionados are asked their top reasons for restomodding their car, the replies are likely to vary. While the response may differ, there will be a common underlying theme: safety.

Modifying cars began as a way for car enthusiasts to combine the most powerful components of their favorite vehicles. As a result, they were able to develop the ideal machine. In other cases, aftermarket components increased their vehicle’s speed and power. However, they kept the model’s original and distinct taste.

For example, Chevy fans would never consider retrofitting their car with a Ford rear end. They’d just obtain the essential components from another Chevrolet or rely on aftermarket goods to suit their requirements. Fast forward to the present day, and the reverence for powerful muscle cars and their ilk remains strong and true. With advancements in aftermarket parts, car owners can now upgrade their vehicles’ power handling capabilities. For instance, roll cages and five-point racing harnesses can help them survive such power undamaged. 

Several Restorative Options

Restomods can range from those that retain simply the body shell of the original vehicle to those that have had the remainder of the vehicle entirely reworked. They can also encumber vehicles equipped with a mix of OEM and aftermarket components. Finally, it comes down to what the individual car owner hopes to accomplish with this endeavor. Despite what appears to be a chasm between restored and restomods, they share some characteristics. While not every restomod uses the same components, the following are some of the most frequent substitutes: 

Brakes 

Swapping out drum brakes for modern disc brakes is a very typical upgrade. Disc brakes are superior in terms of performance and safety due to their resistance to moisture and lack of fade.

Overdrive

Swapping out the original transmission for a more modern option has a number of benefits. Not only do they have smoother shifting and more gears, but they also feature overdrive, which adds extra benefits. Additionally, running at lower engine speeds reduces motor wear and noise while increasing fuel efficiency.

Handling

Even small suspension improvements can make a world of difference in terms of handling and control. For example, updated A-arms, polyurethane bushings, and Panhard bars all aid in keeping the vehicle straight. Even when the cars are operating at full throttle and give the necessary control around corners. The ultimate restomod is a complete coil-over independent suspension. Regrettably, it is not a practical option for the majority of automobiles.

 Safety

These can range in complexity from the simple to the complex. A lap and shoulder seat belt combination, a five-point racing harness, relays designed to minimize the electric current flowing through switches, and disc brakes are just a few examples. 

Tires and Rims

As with many of the restomod options already mentioned, upgrading to larger wheels improves both safety and performance. Tires available today are more performance-oriented than those available for antique automobiles. By selecting them, you gain increased control, traction, and performance, among other benefits.

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Sound System

Every other choice on this list featured a safety component in addition to a performance component. However, boosting the availability of head units with a very vintage aesthetic to enable car owners to listen to their personal playlists via a hidden connector merely enhances each drive.

Safety and Security

The benefits of a restomod cannot be overstated. The technological advancements in car safety over the last four decades are nothing short of astounding. To ignore these and maintain the head-turning elegance of your favorite classic car is simply impossible.

Power

The rush of experiencing the sheer power of a rumbling engine is incredible. It’s one of the factors that attracts a large number of individuals to the classic vehicle movement. Additionally, when the original engine is replaced with something more modern, streamlined, fuel-efficient, and powerful, the result is an unbeatable combination.

Adaptability

Any restomod is one of the most adaptable automobiles you’ll ever own. A restomod is not synonymous with your beloved old car that has been painstakingly restored. It can now be utilized as a weekday commuter car. You can even use it to transport the family on weekend getaways. Another advantage of the restomod is that you can drive it to the occasional local auto show. You will not have the same degree of freedom as any of the other restoration choices available today.

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Technology

The automotive industry’s technological advancements during the last four decades are astounding. You are doing yourself a disservice if you do not take advantage of them. For instance, consider the increased comfort provided by modern suspensions on the market today. Many historic automobiles were just not equipped with air conditioning. This is not a luxury in many places in the United States today; it is a necessity! Sound-deadening materials make conversing with your passengers or on your cell phone more comfortable. Additionally, sound deadening material really improves the sound quality of a restomod automotive audio system. 

Numerous states have enacted legislation requiring drivers to use hands-free devices. By retrofitting a historic car with hands-free equipment, you can take the benefit of modern technology. Additionally, you can confirm that you are operating inside the bounds of the law. 

Auto navigation, remote start, and a contemporary entertainment system are not simply nice-to-have luxuries. Rather than that, they are rather typical equipment in the majority of current automobiles.

Reliable

Modern engines are designed to be more durable and dependable. They also make a difference at the pump and for the environment, due to their emphasis on fuel efficiency. When it comes time to service and maintain a restomod, parts are considerably easier to come by. This means you can quickly resume driving in a matter of days, if not hours. Additionally, the components are less expensive because they are still made.

 Investment

There will almost certainly always be enthusiasts for fully restored old automobiles. Restomods enable modern drivers to purchase and drive a historically styled automobile.

Real world Value

To begin, we presume the classic car has received a quality restoration, leaving the only variables to assess its value as the car’s rarity and the number and type of modifications. Without regard for rarity, the value of a restomod fluctuates but is often between $40,000 and $80,000 for an entry-level restomod. The price of a mid-grade restomod has grown to between $125,000 and $225,000. Additionally, a fully customized restomod can cost well over $500,000. Rarity is another aspect that is considered when determining a piece’s value. Simply said, there are far too many variables to consider when determining the “value” of a rare restomod, let alone one that has undergone any amount of expert modification/customization. However, it’s safe to conclude that the value of a professionally constructed restomod easily exceeds $1,000,000.