Restomod Cars: Classic Looks With Modern Performance
What a restomod is, how it differs from a restoration, common upgrades (brakes, suspension, engine, comfort), classic color ideas and how to plan one.
By Ayoub Farid · · 2 min read
A restomod keeps the soul and shape of a classic and quietly modernizes everything underneath. You get period looks with modern brakes, reliability and comfort.
Restoration vs restomod
- Restoration: returns a car to factory-original condition. Values originality.
- Restomod: restores the look but upgrades the mechanicals and comfort.
Common restomod upgrades
- modern disc brakes
- upgraded suspension and steering
- a more powerful, reliable engine or modern swap
- fuel injection and electronic ignition
- modern air conditioning and audio hidden behind period-style controls
- LED lights in classic-style housings
- bigger wheels in a classic design
The restomod look
- Period-style wheels (often larger diameter) with polished or painted finishes.
- Classic colors: cream, mint, pastel blue, deep green, burgundy; see two-tone wraps and white car wraps.
- Chrome kept, not deleted.
- Whitewall or raised-letter tires in some builds.
Planning one
Budget generously: classic bodywork can hide surprises. Identify the exact model first; see identifying classic cars. Related styles: classic muscle.
Example restomod plans
Driver-focused
Upgrade brakes, suspension bushings, steering and tires first. Keep the original engine, refreshed. Add modern lighting in period housings. The car feels safer without losing its character.
Modern power
A modern engine and gearbox swap with fuel injection, uprated cooling and a stronger driveline. Requires more fabrication and careful paperwork.
Comfort cruiser
Air conditioning, sound deadening, a hidden modern audio system and better seats, keeping the exterior nearly original.
Choosing colors and wheels
- Period colors in modern paint chemistry: cream, mint, sage, baby blue, burgundy and deep green.
- Two-tone roofs for 1950s–70s cars; see two-tone wraps.
- Wheels that echo the original design one or two sizes larger; avoid ultra-modern designs that clash with the body.
Common mistakes
- Underestimating rust repair before anything fun happens.
- Mixing too many eras of design in one car.
- Forgetting paperwork for engine swaps where registration rules require it; see are car mods legal?
Preview a restomod
CarForge's Retro Restomod style applies two-tone cream and mint paint, chrome trim and vintage-style wheels. It works on modern cars too, for a retro twist.
Frequently asked questions
What is a restomod?
A classic car restored to period looks but upgraded with modern mechanicals and comforts.
Do restomods hold value?
High-quality restomods can be valuable, but they appeal to different buyers than original restorations.
What is the best car for a restomod?
Popular classics with good parts support, since aftermarket upgrades are easier to find.
Are restomods reliable?
Well-built ones are usually more reliable than original classics thanks to modern components.
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