Restomod

Restomod /res-toh-mod/ noun (countable)

A restomod is a classic vehicle that has been restored in its appearance but modified ("modded") with modern components to improve its performance, reliability, and safety. This is the practice of giving a classic car the looks of the 1960s but the capabilities of the 21st century. It's a portmanteau of "restoration" and "modification," a philosophy that seeks the best of both worlds: classic style without the classic breakdowns. A restomod might have the body of a Jaguar E-Type but the engine of a contemporary BMW and brakes that actually work. It is a popular and creative movement that absolutely infuriates the purists.

The Full Story of the Restomod

The restomod was born from a simple, compelling fantasy: what if you could have the breathtaking beauty of a classic car with the savage power, creature comforts, and everyday usability of a new one? It is an attempt to create an idealised version of a historic car, a machine free from the compromises and shortcomings of its era. Better, faster, and more dependable than it ever was when it first left the factory.

The process goes far beyond a simple renovation. Typically, it starts with a complete powertrain transplant. A classic Ford Mustang might have its factory V8 replaced with a fuel-injected Coyote V8 from a current model. A classic Mini might be fitted with a high-revving Honda VTEC engine, transforming it into a pocket rocket. In recent years, this has even extended to fitting fully electric drivetrains, creating silent, brutally fast classics that would have the factory engineers spinning in their graves.

This new power, however, would be useless and terrifying in a standard classic chassis. A true restomod involves a full mechanical transformation underneath the skin. The wobbly, primitive suspension is replaced with adjustable coilovers. The feeble drum brakes are junked in favour of huge, multi-piston disc brakes that can actually stop the car. The chassis is often stiffened and strengthened to cope with forces the factory designers never imagined.

The world's top restomodders have become brands in their own right, operating at the very pinnacle of the automotive world. Companies like Singer Vehicle Design in California take 1990s Porsche 911s and "reimagine" them as refined versions of the 1960s cars, with exquisite, jewellery-like details and eye-watering prices. In Britain, Eagle takes Jaguar E-Types and rebuilds them to such a high standard that many consider them superior to what rolled out of Coventry.

This pursuit of mechanical nirvana, however, raises a difficult philosophical question. If you take a Jaguar E-Type and replace its engine, gearbox, suspension, brakes, and interior, is it still a Jaguar E-Type? The purist would argue that its soul has been surgically removed, that it has become an exquisitely crafted replica of itself. It is the "Ship of Theseus" paradox played out in a workshop, a debate that will forever rage in the pubs and paddocks of the classic car world.

For The Record

What is the difference between a restomod and a renovation?

A renovation might involve a few sensible upgrades to make a car more usable, like electronic ignition or better brakes. A restomod is a much more comprehensive transformation of the entire car with a focus on high performance, often with a complete engine and drivetrain swap.

Is a restomod cheaper than a restoration?

Almost never. A high-end restomod, involving engine conversions, bespoke suspension, and a custom interior, is an incredibly labour-intensive process that can easily cost far more than a factory-correct restoration.

Does a restomod hold its value?

It depends. A car from a world-renowned restomodder like Singer or Eagle can be a blue-chip investment. A less well-executed or tastefully modified car, however, can be worth less than a standard example, as it may appeal to a much smaller pool of buyers.

Is this a new phenomenon?

The idea of modifying old cars with new parts is as old as the car itself. However, the term "restomod" and the movement as we know it, with its focus on high-quality, professional builds, really began to gain momentum in the 1990s and has exploded in popularity since.

What is the most iconic British restomod?

While many British cars are candidates, the Eagle E-Type is arguably the most famous. It takes what many consider the most beautiful car ever made and applies contemporary engineering to create what some see as the ultimate, refined version of the classic.