May 28, 2021

Are Restomods The Future Of Classic Cars?

Restomodding is the act of restoring a classic vehicle by adding in modern technology and subtle aesthetic changes to enhance the car’s drive. It’s a controversial topic in the classic car industry as on one hand, it gives people the chance to enjoy classics without the hassle of outdates and old mechanics and in many cases makes them faster and easier to drive, however many argue that it destroys the classic car and removes what makes it iconic – which is the time piece mechanics.

Although restomods often come with a heavy price tags, it does allow drivers to not only enjoy a more accessible classic but also gives room to a highly customable vehicle.

The middle ground can be found in cars such as the brand new Morgan Plus Fours and Nissan Figaro‘s which retain the original classic styling but are being produced with today’s technology, creating an original classic with the modern luxuries.

Both restomods and modern remakes like Morgan’s still come with controversy with many classic car enthusiasts debating the authenticity of these new classics and arguing that part of the allure of a classic is in its mechanics and the way it drives.

โ€œWe compare it to an old federation house, or terrace house โ€“ you want one of these pretty old houses but you also want air-conditioning and internet and good plumbing.โ€ says the owner of Modern Classic Cars in the Sydney suburb of Padstow.

The most popular restomod company is Singer, a USA based company that specialises in air-cooled Porsche 911s. David Brown Automotive got its fame for creating the Mini Remastered series.

Our stunning 1967 Jaguar E-Type Series 1 Race Replica is a restomod that packs a punch. Still with its original E-Type styling, we’ve re-designed it to give more power and speed as well as custom styling.

This of course then leads you down the rabbit hole of Electric conversions, rally conversions and hot rods. There are many things you can do with a classic and still enjoy them but where is the line drawn between a classic and a vintage style kit car? At the end of the day, here at Bridge, we understand it is the personal value of the car that means the most and the memories it allows you to have.

You can find more restomod inspiration here.

Fiat 500’s Recent Modifications

We’ve made some more modifications to our 1969 Fiat 500. The demister diverter heater control for the floor and windscreen has been modified and moved to accommodate the new steering rack.

MG TD Service Results

Scott has carried out a service on our MG TD and found that it only needs its rear left wheel cylinder replacing as it was leaking. Other than that, its had the normal checks, oil changed and been re-greased so once the wheel cylinder is replaced, its good to go again!

Amphicar Floor Repaint

We’ve started repainting the floor on our 1965 Amphicar. Chris began by taking out the bolts and masking up the struts that would remain cream.

We’ve applied a black sealant paint on the inside which is the same as the underside. This resin based paint provides better protection against water ingress and allows for easier cleaning.

We are also endeavouring to repair the handbrake after the cable broke.

The East Anglian Anglia’s Clean Up

Our 1959 Ford Anglia has had a thorough clean and polish and just take a look at what a difference its made! From a dull, dusty and sad Ford to a magnificent shiny piece of iconic Ford history! This East Anglian Anglia is ready to go, but what’s the next steps?

Take a look at the before and after: