Classic Car Restoration vs. Restomod – What’s the Difference?

For a long time, restoring a car almost always meant bringing a vehicle back to how it looked when it first debuted on the road. More recently, however, there has been a rise in restomods—cars that maintain much of the appearance and character of their original models while incorporating carefully selected upgrades that bring them into the modern era. Read on to learn the differences between these two restoration styles.

Traditionally, restorations have been the most common approach to classic car refurbishment. A restoration aims to return a vehicle as closely as possible to its original factory condition, preserving the details that made it unique when it rolled off the assembly line. Modern upgrades take a back seat to historically accurate elements such as original paint colors, genuine replacement parts, and model-year-specific finishes. Typically, purist collectors who want to experience a vehicle as it was originally intended opt for restored cars.

Getting its name from combining the words “restoration” and “modification,” a restomod blends classic car aesthetics and vintage craftsmanship with modern upgrades in performance, safety, comfort, and reliability. Unlike a custom build, which often features heavily altered styling, a restomod strikes a balance between preserving the spirit of the original vehicle and enhancing its functionality for modern driving. It offers the best of both worlds for enthusiasts who appreciate classic design but also want contemporary performance and convenience.

Most commonly, restomods feature upgrades in the following areas:

Interior Comfort

Rather than retaining an interior from another era, many restomods incorporate upgraded upholstery, sound insulation, ergonomic seating, and modern heating and air conditioning systems. These improvements make classic vehicles significantly more enjoyable for everyday driving.

Powertrain Performance

The engine and drivetrain are often upgraded with newer, more powerful systems that improve performance, efficiency, and reliability. Some restomods even replace traditional internal combustion engines with modern electric powertrains.

Suspension and Handling

A smoother, quieter, and more controlled driving experience can be achieved through suspension and chassis upgrades such as independent rear suspension, modern coilovers, and updated bushings.

Modern Technology

Automotive technology has advanced dramatically over the years. For enthusiasts who want the convenience of infotainment systems, LED lighting, digital gauges, backup cameras, and other modern amenities, a restomod offers the ideal solution.

Safety Enhancements

Safety technology has also come a long way. Proving that period-correct styling and modern safety can coexist, common upgrades may include ABS, four-wheel disc brakes, modern seat belts, improved steering systems, and other safety-focused improvements.

For decades, restoration was the standard approach in the classic car world, appealing to collectors who wanted to preserve their vehicles exactly as they looked when first produced, down to the smallest era-specific detail. Today, the growing popularity of restomods offers enthusiasts another path—one that allows them to maintain the soul and character of a classic vehicle while tailoring it to their own preferences and driving needs.

Whichever path you choose, you can depend on Verrillo Motor Car Co. for the experience, insight, and craftsmanship needed to do the job right. Contact us today to discuss your restoration or restomod project.