an account. You can:
Access your saved cars on any device.
Receive Price Alert emails when price changes,
new offers become available or a vehicle is sold.
5 DOMINANT UPGRADES THAT MAKE RESTOMODS BETTER THAN MOST
If you’re after a period-correct vintage that mirrors every single hidden marking and accessory from the day it rolled off the manufacturer’s floor, NFI Empire might not be your best option. However, if you crave a vintage ride that surpasses its original glory, THIS IS WHAT WE DO.
Over the last decade, we’ve built countless Restomod projects that command attention for all the right reasons at every automotive event. When it comes to crafting a proper Restomod, five main upgrades ensure these vehicles dominate the market. Proper project planning will guarantee that the components complement each other and ultimately exceed most expectations.
1. Launch! (Engine & Transmission Upgrades)
No kidding, right? Engine and transmission upgrades are a no-brainer, but choosing the right setup is where many rookies go wrong.
- What’s your “WHY” behind the build? How will you drive it? Where do you want to drive it?
- Let’s also consider the vehicle’s overall size and design to ensure the drivetrain complements it.
A common engine swap for Ford vehicles is replacing the original engine with the Mustang 5.0L Coyote engine. This is a great option for most. However, thinking through the questions above for a 1978 Ford Bronco build might steer you in a different direction. If you want low-end power, it might make sense to choose a Ford Performance 7.3L Godzilla versus the Coyote. The Godzilla provides significantly more torque and offers a smaller footprint due to the pushrod configuration, allowing for more room in tight areas. The Coyote provides better fuel economy but focuses on a higher RPM power range. Fuel mileage??? What?!
As for a transmission, there are options, but with the 7.3L Godzilla or the 5.0L Coyote, you can’t go wrong with a 10R80. It has three overdrive gears and a wide gear ratio span if you want to drive your Restomod with no limitations.
2. Moves Like Ali and Stopping Power Like Tyson (Suspension & Braking)
While you’re under throttle, you never know when you might need to do the automotive version of the “Ali Shuffle” to manage what’s ahead. Performance suspension and upgraded braking systems are essential. We want to drive this bad boy more than once!
Today’s suspension system technology focuses on both performance and safety through ride quality and stability. No Restomod should have drum brakes causing brake fade and ruining the aesthetics of your personalized design. Stopping power is non-negotiable. Depending on your “WHY” for the project, an NFI Empire Custom Build Specialist can walk you through which suspension brands may be best for your application. Ensuring the proper fine-tuning and geometry is crucial. This goes for the braking system as well.
3. Crash Dummies Don’t Need It, But You Do (Safety Features)
Vintage cars were massive, old-school steel bodies that could plow through anything but lacked basic safety elements. Let’s not forget, vintage cars were built in the days of “Lawn Darts” and public service announcements about not leaving your keys in the car with young children! Restomods offer the opportunity to integrate modern safety equipment like airbags, seat belts, and reinforcements to ensure safety without impeding on the vehicle design and look that we all love.
4. If You Don’t Look Back at It, You Built the Wrong Vehicle! (Design Upgrades)
The vintage look and appeal can be brought into the new age tastefully through aesthetic upgrades such as modern interiors, custom wheels, tires, and even a custom paint job. You might choose to use a 2024 Camaro dash and interior in your 1969 model. Another option is to work with our interior department to develop a hand-stitched custom design from your specific choices of materials and fabrics. It’s all about enhancing the visual appearance and emotion of your project while not straying too far from the original design.
5. No Corinthian? No Heated Seats? No Bueno. (Comfort Features)
You want to love your Restomod. To do this, some modern amenities might make you sound “Bougie,” but let’s be real, be Bougie! Build what you want! Air conditioning, power steering, heated seats, Apple CarPlay. The idea of a Restomod is blending the vintage look with today’s expected features. So, make your list of what the perfect ride would be for you, and your custom build specialist will figure out the best route to deliver on it all.
So there you go. You have the five areas to run through and design your ultimate Restomod. Now, what to build?
If you would like to discuss a Restomod project with a dedicated Custom Build Specialist, give us a call. We have decades of experience and our finger on the pulse of the industry when it comes to do’s and don’ts. Let’s build one together, the right way, the first time!
