What is a Restomod?

A "restomod" is a vintage or classic car that has been restored and enhanced with contemporary performance and comfort upgrades while preserving its original visual appeal. It combines classic design with modern technology and components.

Restoration

A Restomod starts with a comprehensive restoration of the car, typically aiming to return it to its original condition or to a similar state.

Engine Modifications

However, unlike a traditional restoration, a Restomod is modified with modern upgrades. Engine upgrades and modern engines often add value, more horsepower, and improved fuel efficiency.

Suspension and Brake Upgrades

Modern suspension systems provide improved handling and ride quality.

Brake upgrades for larger, more powerful brakes for enhanced stopping ability.

Transmission Upgrades

Modern automatic or manual transmissions can add performance and value.

Interior Upgrades

Comfort features such as air conditioning, upgraded audio systems, and even luxurious interiors will enhance comfort and boost the overall value.

Electronic upgrades

Modern electronic systems, gauges, hands-free Bluetooth radios, LED lighting, and other components.

Original Appearance

The key characteristic of a Restomod is that it retains the original styling and aesthetic of the classic car. The goal is to have a vehicle that looks classic but performs and drives like a modern car. Restomods offer enthusiasts the chance to enjoy the best of both worlds – the nostalgia and charm of a classic car with the performance, comfort, and reliability of a modern vehicle.

How is a Restomod Valued?

The value of a restomod is determined by a few key factors, including the make and model of the base car, the level and quality of the modifications, and the demand for that specific restomod. In general, restomods can be more valuable than fully restored cars, especially if they are well-executed and balance classic aesthetics with modern performance and comfort.

Factors Affecting Restomod Value

The original car's make, model, and condition significantly influence its value. A classic and sought-after vehicle will have a higher base value, even before any modifications.

The extent and quality of the "mod" part of the restomod are crucial. Upgrades like upgraded engines, transmissions, suspension, brakes, or interiors can add to the overall value. The Demand: If a restomod is unique, well-crafted, and appeals to a broad audience, it can command a higher price, especially if built by a reputable builder. While restomods prioritize performance and comfort, they should still retain a certain level of authenticity to their original design. If the modifications are too drastic, the car might lose some of its appeal to collectors. A collectible vehicle's value can fluctuate with the finished vehicle's overall appeal, supply and demand, and broader market trends. Hagerty is the benchmark on classic car values, offering a comprehensive valuation tool based on insured clients' data and industry expert input. They also publish indices that track market trends. The amount of work put into a restomod, especially if it's a custom build, can also contribute to its perceived value. A restomod can be more valuable than a restoration, especially for iconic and rare cars. However, a restoration that preserves original details can also hold high value, especially for rare and highly sought-after vehicles. Restomods are gaining popularity as they blend classic looks with modern reliability and performance, making them attractive to younger enthusiasts. Restomods can be a good investment, especially for iconic and rare cars, as they combine classic aesthetics with modern performance. In summary, the value of a restomod is a complex equation influenced by the base vehicle, the quality of the modifications, market demand, and the finished vehicle's overall appeal.

Can a Restomod be a Concours Vehicle?

No, a restomod is typically not regarded as a Concours Classic car. Concours restoration focuses on returning a vehicle to its original, period-correct state, whereas restomods involve modern modifications such as updated engines, suspensions, and technologies. Concours cars are assessed for compliance with factory specifications, while restomods are evaluated for their combination of classic looks and modern enhancements. Concours Restoration emphasizes replicating the car's original factory condition, including period-appropriate paint, upholstery, and mechanical components. Concours vehicles are generally not meant for daily use and are more suitable for display and shows. Restomods, also known as modified restorations, modernize a classic car with contemporary enhancements while retaining its classic appearance. These updates might include improved engines, transmissions, suspensions, brakes, and interior features. The main distinction lies in the approach. Concours restorations aim to preserve the original car's integrity, whereas restomods adopt modern upgrades to enhance performance and convenience. Concours competitions evaluate cars based on originality and the accuracy of the restoration to factory specifications. Restomods, while maintaining the classic aesthetic, are judged on the quality of the modifications and how well they integrate with the original design.

Can a Restomod a #2 Excellent Classic car?

No, a restomod typically wouldn't be classified as a #2 classic car. Although restomods preserve the classic exterior design, they usually include modern enhancements to the engine, suspension, and other mechanical components, which deviate from the "original" standards for a #2 classic.

Can a Restomod a #3 Excellent Classic car?

A restomod can be considered a #3 classic car, especially if the restoration and modifications are high quality and the vehicle retains its original character. A #3 classic car indicates good condition with some minor restoration or repair work, and a restomod, by definition, is a classic car that's been modernized with upgrades. The more customized a car is, the harder it is to retain its resale value. A restomod that stays close to the original design will have broader appeal. A restomod can be a #3 classic car if it's a well-done modernization that respects the original design and retains its character.

Real Life Value

All Classic Cars are not created equal, nor do they all hold the same appeal or value.

A 1969 Ford Falcon Futura will never achieve the value of a base 1969 Dodge Charger. No matter how much money you invest in the Falcon. This is due to the popularity, market demand, and overall resale value. As a customer, if you plan to build or restore a classic vehicle with the intention of reselling it for profit exceeding $100,000.00, quit while you're ahead. You will never achieve this goal. If you want to restore a '69 Falcon barn find because your Grandfather had one, remember that you will have more invested than the resale value; choose your project vehicle wisely. If the '69 Falcon was your Grandfather's vehicle that he purchased at the local Ford Dealership, then the value does not apply. You can't place a value on Sentimental Value.

If you have a '69 Charger, you have a better chance of breaking even in cost vs resale value. Again, choose your project vehicle wisely. However, replacement parts will be more affordable for the Falcon than the Charger, impacting the investment amount.

The average Frame-off Restoration cost is $80,000.00 to $100,000.00. If high-end performance parts are used, the total investment is $150,000.00 in replacement parts. Make and model don't affect the labor cost. The same work and total hours will apply to Falcon and Charger; the only difference is the cost of replacement parts.

A 1965 Mustang Coupe is a very popular vehicle. Let's say it's your dream car. You find one surrounded by bushes, priced at only $ 3,000.00. Thinking this is a deal, you purchase it. Your next phase is to want a frame-off restoration. Now you're looking at a minimum of 80K and two years of your life. The vehicle's value will range from 40k to 22k, with an average resale value of 25k. This is a loss of 45K. From a financial standpoint, you are better off purchasing a nice, running, and drivable Mustang and making changes to what you don't like. However, suppose you aim to build a custom Restomod to your specifications. In that case, you must accept that you will always have more invested than the resale value, but a value can not be placed on the satisfaction of having your dream car.

At the end of the day, a classic car's value is determined by what the buyer and seller agree on. That '65 Mustang can be sold for 22 K. Two years later, the same car, in the same condition, was sold to a different buyer for 32 K. As a rule of thumb, it has to look better than it performs. The actual value is in the Eye of the Beholder.

All values are average listed values; they do not pertain to any specific vehicle, nor do they reflect assessments by a licensed appraiser.