Top 10 Restomod Parts for Classic Cars


Picture from one of the best restomod shops

Restomodding is restoring a classic car while upgrading its performance and functionality. It’s a popular trend among car enthusiasts who want to maintain the classic look of their car while enjoying modern features. Restomodding involves replacing or upgrading parts of a classic car with new and modern parts to improve its performance, comfort, and safety. This article will discuss the top 10 restomod parts for classic cars that can help you achieve your desired look and performance.

Top 10 Restomod Parts for Classic Cars:

  1. Suspension System
  2. Brakes
  3. Engine
  4. Exhaust System
  5. Transmission
  6. Wheels and Tires
  7. Air Conditioning
  8. Sound System
  9. Seats and Upholstery
  10. Gauges and Instrumentation

Suspension System

Picture from one of the best restomod shops

The suspension system is one of the most critical components of any vehicle, including classic cars. It’s responsible for keeping your car’s wheels in contact with the road, providing stability, and ensuring a smooth ride. Upgrading your suspension system can significantly improve your classic car’s performance and handling, making driving more enjoyable.

When it comes to restomodding your suspension system, there are many options available, including:

  1. Coilover Shocks and Springs: Coilover shocks and springs are a popular upgrade for classic cars. They offer better adjustability and performance than stock shocks and springs and can improve your car’s handling and cornering.
  2. Tubular Control Arms: Tubular control arms are lighter and stronger than factory control arms. They offer better geometry, improved handling, and reduced unsprung weight.
  3. Sway Bars: Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, are designed to reduce body roll and improve handling. They can significantly improve your car’s cornering ability, making it more stable and predictable.
  4. Power Steering: Upgrading to a modern power steering system can make driving your classic car much easier. It reduces steering effort, improves steering feel, and enhances your car’s overall performance.
  5. Adjustable Suspension: An adjustable suspension system allows you to adjust your car’s ride height and stiffness, giving you more control over your car’s handling and performance.

Restomodding your suspension system can be a complex and challenging process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your suspension system for the best performance.

Upgrading your suspension system is an excellent way to improve your classic car’s performance and handling. Whether you’re upgrading to coilover shocks and springs, tubular control arms, sway bars, power steering, or an adjustable suspension system, seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Brakes

Picture of a Chevrolet Corvette Restomod

Upgrading your classic car’s brakes is an essential part of restomodding. Upgraded brakes can provide better stopping power, reduce brake fade, and improve overall safety. There are several options available for restomodding your brakes, including:

  1. Disc Brakes: Upgrading to disc brakes is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your classic car’s braking system. Disc brakes offer better-stopping power, reduced brake fade, and improved durability over drum brakes.
  2. High-Performance Brake Pads: High-performance brake pads can provide better-stopping power, reduced brake fade, and improved durability over stock brake pads. They are an affordable and easy upgrade that can significantly improve your car’s braking performance.
  3. Upgraded Brake Lines: Upgraded brake lines can improve your car’s brake feel and reduce brake fade. Stainless steel brake lines are a popular upgrade because they are more durable than rubber ones.
  4. Brake Booster: A booster can provide better braking power with less pedal effort. Upgrading to a modern brake booster can make your classic car much easier and more enjoyable.
  5. Master Cylinder: Upgrading to a modern master cylinder can provide a better brake feel and performance. It can also reduce pedal effort and improve your car’s overall braking performance.

Restomodding your brakes can be a challenging and complex process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your brakes for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s brakes is a crucial part of restomodding. Whether you’re upgrading to disc brakes, high-performance brake pads, upgraded brake lines, a brake booster, or a master cylinder, seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Engine

Picture from one of the best restomod shops

Upgrading your classic car’s engine is one of the most exciting and significant parts of restomodding. A more powerful engine can significantly improve your car’s performance and give you more driving pleasure.

There are many options available for restomodding your engine, including:

  1. High-Performance Crate Engines: High-performance crate engines are a popular choice for restomodding. They offer high power output, reliability, and easy installation. Crate engines come in various configurations and can be customized to fit your car’s needs.
  2. Fuel Injection System: Upgrading to a modern fuel injection system can significantly improve your car’s drivability and performance. Fuel injection systems offer better fuel efficiency, improved throttle response, and better performance at high altitudes.
  3. Turbocharging or Supercharging: Turbocharging or supercharging your engine can significantly increase its power output. Turbochargers and superchargers force more air into the engine, which improves its efficiency and power.
  4. High-Flow Air Intake: Upgrading to a high-flow air intake can significantly improve your car’s engine performance. High-flow air intakes allow more air to enter the engine, which improves its efficiency and power.
  5. High-Performance Exhaust Headers: Upgrading to high-performance exhaust headers can improve your car’s engine performance by increasing exhaust flow. High-performance headers reduce backpressure, which allows the engine to breathe more easily and increase power output.

Restomodding your engine can be a complex and challenging process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your engine for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s engine is an excellent way to improve its performance and give you more driving pleasure. Whether upgrading to a high-performance crate engine, fuel injection system, turbocharging or supercharging, high-flow air intake, or high-performance exhaust headers, seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Exhaust System

Upgrading your classic car’s exhaust system is an essential part of restomodding. A high-performance exhaust system can increase your engine’s power, improve the sound, and reduce back pressure. Upgrading your exhaust system can also improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. There are several options available for restomodding your exhaust system, including:

  1. Stainless Steel Exhaust System: Upgrading to a stainless steel exhaust system can significantly improve your car’s durability and appearance. Stainless steel exhaust systems are more durable and corrosion-resistant than stock exhaust systems and offer a better appearance.
  2. High-Flow Catalytic Converter: A high-flow catalytic converter can improve your car’s engine performance by reducing back pressure. High-flow catalytic converters allow more air to flow through the exhaust system, which improves engine efficiency and power.
  3. High-Performance Mufflers: Upgrading to high-performance mufflers can improve your car’s engine performance by reducing back pressure and improving exhaust flow. High-performance mufflers offer a better sound and appearance than stock mufflers.
  4. Headers and Downpipes: Upgrading to headers and downpipes can significantly improve your car’s exhaust flow and engine performance. Headers reduce back pressure and improve exhaust flow, while downpipes connect the headers to the exhaust system and further reduce back pressure.

Restomodding your exhaust system can be a challenging and complex process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your exhaust system for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s exhaust system is an excellent way to improve its performance and sound. Whether you’re upgrading to a stainless steel exhaust system, high-flow catalytic converter, high-performance mufflers, or headers and downpipes, seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Transmission

picture of a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Restomod

Upgrading your classic car’s transmission is another critical part of restomodding. A more modern and efficient transmission can improve your car’s performance and drivability. There are several options available for restomodding your transmission, including:

  1. Automatic Transmission: Upgrading to a modern automatic transmission can significantly improve your car’s drivability and performance. Modern automatic transmissions offer better gear ratios, efficiency, and smoother shifting.
  2. Manual Transmission: Upgrading to a modern manual transmission can provide better performance and a more engaging driving experience. Modern manual transmissions offer better gear ratios, efficiency, and smoother shifting.
  3. Overdrive Transmission: An overdrive transmission can improve your car’s fuel efficiency and reduce engine wear. Overdrive transmissions allow the engine to run at lower RPMs, which reduces fuel consumption and engine wear.
  4. Shift Kit: A shift kit can improve your car’s performance by providing faster and crisper shifts. Shift kits are available for automatic and manual transmissions and can significantly improve your car’s performance.

Restomodding your transmission can be a challenging and complex process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your transmission for the best performance.

In conclusion, upgrading your classic car’s transmission is an excellent way to improve its performance and drivability. Whether upgrading to an automatic transmission, manual transmission, overdrive transmission, or shift kit, make sure to seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Wheels and Tires

picture of a 1969 Chevrolet Camaro Restomod

Upgrading your classic car’s wheels and tires is essential to restomodding. A modern and stylish set of wheels and tires can significantly improve your car’s appearance and performance. There are several options available for restomodding your wheels and tires, including:

  1. Alloy Wheels: Upgrading to alloy wheels can significantly improve your car’s appearance and performance. Alloy wheels are lighter and stronger than steel wheels and offer better handling and acceleration.
  2. Wide Tires: Upgrading to wider tires can improve your car’s handling and traction. Wider tires offer a larger contact patch, which provides better grip and stability.
  3. Low-Profile Tires: Upgrading low-profile tires can improve your car’s appearance and performance. Low-profile tires offer better handling and acceleration and provide a sportier look.
  4. Performance Tires: Upgrading to performance tires can significantly improve your car’s handling and acceleration. Performance tires offer better grip and traction and can enhance your driving experience.

Restomodding your wheels and tires can be challenging and complex, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right wheels and tires for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your wheels and tires for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s wheels and tires is an excellent way to improve its appearance and performance. Whether upgrading to alloy wheels, wide tires, low-profile tires, or performance tires, seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Air Conditioning

Picture of air conditioning controls from one of the best restomod shops

Upgrading your classic car’s air conditioning system is an excellent way to improve your driving comfort. Many classic cars did not have air conditioning, or their original systems may no longer function correctly. Restomodding your air conditioning system can provide a modern and reliable system that keeps you cool and comfortable during hot weather. There are several options available for restomodding your air conditioning system, including:

  1. Retrofit Kits: Retrofit kits are available that can convert your classic car’s air conditioning system to a modern and reliable system. These kits typically include all the necessary components, such as a compressor, condenser, evaporator, and hoses.
  2. Upgraded Components: Upgrading individual components of your air conditioning system can also improve its performance and reliability. Upgraded components such as compressors, condensers, and evaporators can improve your system’s cooling capacity and efficiency.
  3. Electronic Controls: Upgrading to electronic controls can provide better control over your air conditioning system. Electronic controls offer features such as automatic temperature control and variable fan speed, which can significantly improve your comfort while driving.

Restomodding your air conditioning system can be complex and challenging, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your air conditioning system for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s air conditioning system is an excellent way to improve your driving comfort. Whether you’re retrofitting your air conditioning system with a kit, upgrading individual components, or upgrading to electronic controls, seek a professional’s help to ensure the best results.

Sound System

Picture from one of the best restomod shops

Upgrading your classic car’s sound system is an excellent way to improve your driving experience. Many classic cars come with outdated or inadequate sound systems that do not provide the best audio quality. Restomodding your sound system can provide a modern, high-quality audio system to enhance your driving experience.

There are several options available for restomodding your sound system, including:

  1. Speakers: Upgrading your speakers is one of the most significant improvements you can make to your sound system. High-quality speakers can significantly improve your audio quality and provide clarity and depth.
  2. Amplifiers: Upgrading to a high-quality amplifier can provide more power to your speakers, resulting in better sound quality and clarity. Amplifiers also offer features such as bass boost and tone controls that can further enhance your listening experience.
  3. Head Unit: Upgrading to a modern head unit can provide more features and better sound quality. Modern head units offer features such as Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and smartphone integration, allowing you to stream music directly from your device.
  4. Sound Deadening: Installing sound-deadening materials can significantly improve your sound system’s performance by reducing road noise and vibration. Sound-deadening materials such as acoustic foam and mass-loaded vinyl can improve audio quality and reduce driver fatigue.

Restomodding your sound system can be a challenging and complex process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your sound system for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s sound system is an excellent way to enhance your driving experience. Whether upgrading your speakers, amplifiers, and head unit or installing sound-deadening materials, make sure to seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results. We highly recommend Music In Motion for high-end car audio and advanced electronic services.

Seats and Upholstery

Upgrading your classic car’s seats and upholstery is an excellent way to improve your driving comfort and enhance your car’s appearance. Many classic cars come with outdated or worn-out seats and upholstery, making driving uncomfortable and detracting from your car’s overall appeal. Restomodding your seats and upholstery can provide modern, comfortable seats that look great and enhance your driving experience.

There are several options available for restomodding your seats and upholstery, including:

  1. Bucket Seats: Upgrading to bucket seats can significantly improve your driving comfort and provide better support for your back and legs. Bucket seats offer more adjustability and a sportier look than stock seats.
  2. Upholstery: Upgrading your upholstery can significantly improve your car’s appearance and comfort. High-quality upholstery materials such as leather or synthetic leather offer better durability and appearance than stock materials.
  3. Seat Belts: Upgrading to modern seat belts can improve your car’s safety and provide better protection in an accident. Modern seat belts offer features such as automatic tensioners and pretensions that can improve their effectiveness.
  4. Seat Heaters: Installing seat heaters can significantly improve your driving comfort during cold weather. Seat heaters provide warmth and comfort, allowing you to drive more comfortably in colder temperatures.

Restomodding your seats and upholstery can be a complex and challenging process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the correct parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your seats and upholstery for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s seats and upholstery is an excellent way to improve your driving comfort and enhance your car’s appearance. Whether upgrading to bucket seats, high-quality upholstery, modern seat belts, or seat heaters, make sure to seek the help of a professional to ensure the best results.

Gauges and Instrumentation

Picture from one of the best restomod shops

Upgrading your classic car’s gauges and instrumentation is an excellent way to enhance your driving experience and improve your car’s functionality. Many classic cars come with outdated or unreliable gauges and instrumentation, making driving challenging and inconvenient.

Restomodding your gauges and instrumentation can provide you with modern and reliable gauges that are easy to read and provide you with accurate information about your car’s performance. There are several options available for restomodding your gauges and instrumentation, including:

  1. Digital Gauges: Upgrading to digital gauges can significantly improve your car’s functionality and appearance. Digital gauges offer better accuracy and readability than stock gauges and provide additional features such as customizable screens and warning indicators.
  2. Custom Gauges: Installing custom gauges can give you a unique look that matches your car’s style and personality. Custom gauges can be customized with different colors, graphics, and styles to match your preferences.
  3. Auxiliary Gauges: Installing auxiliary gauges can provide additional information about your car’s performance. Auxiliary gauges such as oil pressure, water temperature, and battery voltage can provide critical information about your car’s health.
  4. GPS Navigation: Upgrading a GPS navigation system can provide better navigation and more features than stock navigation systems. GPS navigation systems offer features such as real-time traffic updates, voice commands, and points of interest.

Restomodding your gauges and instrumentation can be a complex and challenging process, and it’s essential to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop. A professional can help you select the right parts for your car, ensure proper installation, and provide expert advice on tuning your gauges and instrumentation for the best performance.

Upgrading your classic car’s gauges and instrumentation is an excellent way to enhance your driving experience and improve your car’s functionality. Whether upgrading to digital gauges, custom gauges, auxiliary gauges, or a GPS navigation system, seek a professional’s help to ensure the best results.

Frequently Asked Questions – Top 10 Restomod Parts for Classic Cars

frequently asked questions

What is restomodding? Yes, restomodding is restoring a classic car while upgrading its performance and functionality.

Why should I restomod my classic car? Yes, restomodding can improve your car’s performance, safety, and functionality while maintaining its classic look.

Can I restomod my classic car myself? Yes, restomodding can be a challenging and time-consuming process. It’s best to seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop.

Conclusion – Top 10 Restomod Parts for Classic Cars

Restomodding is an exciting way to improve your classic car’s performance and functionality while maintaining its classic look. The top 10 restomod parts for classic cars above can help you achieve your desired look and performance. Whether you’re upgrading your suspension system, brakes, engine, or gauges, seek the help of a professional mechanic or restomodding shop to ensure the best results. Happy restomodding!

Want to learn more about restomodding your classic car? Contact Restomod Academy for expert advice, tutorials, and resources to help you get started.

Brook Walsh

For nearly 30 years, I've had a fascination with restomods. I've learned from real-world experience what restomod gear works and what doesn't. This is the site where I share everything I've learned.

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