Restomods, short for “restoration-modifications,” blend the timeless design of classic cars with the advanced technology of modern vehicles. This approach retains the aesthetic and historical significance of vintage automobiles while enhancing their performance, safety, and comfort. For car enthusiasts, restomods offer the best of both worlds, celebrating nostalgia while embracing innovation.
The concept of restomods emerged in the 1990s when automotive technology began to outpace older vehicle designs. Enthusiasts sought to modernize classic cars, incorporating features like powerful engines, advanced suspension systems, and state-of-the-art electronics to improve practicality and performance. What began as a niche practice has since grown into a global movement that redefines the potential of classic cars.

One of the most influential names in the restomod world is Singer Vehicle Design. Founded in 2009 by Rob Dickinson, an ex-car designer and former musician, the California-based company has earned a reputation for its exquisite reinterpretations of Porsche 911s, particularly the 964 generation. Singer’s philosophy, “everything is important,” has redefined the boundaries of restoration and modification. Each vehicle undergoes a meticulous process, with original body panels replaced by lightweight carbon fiber and engines re-engineered by top-tier partners like Cosworth and Williams to deliver exceptional power and performance.

Singer’s commitment to detail doesn’t stop at mechanics. The interiors of their vehicles are masterfully crafted, blending vintage styling with modern luxury through the use of premium materials and cutting-edge design. The result is a seamless fusion of classic beauty and contemporary functionality. Singer’s work has not only elevated the standards of restomods but also inspired a new wave of builders to preserve automotive history while adapting it for today’s roads.

Moving into the rally-inspired realm of restomods, Automobili Amos reimagines the iconic Lancia Delta Integrale with the Futurista and Safarista. The Futurista pays homage to the Group A rally car with lightweight carbon fiber and aluminum bodywork, blending aggressive, timeless aesthetics with luxurious, modern detailing. The Safarista, on the other hand, is a competent modern rally car hidden within the classic shell of the Delta Integrale. Beneath its retro exterior lies a heavily upgraded chassis, rally-grade suspension, and reinforced components designed to handle the demands of extreme off-road terrain. With all-terrain tires, advanced safety systems, and a modernized powertrain, the Safarista embodies contemporary rally performance while preserving the unmistakable spirit of its 1980s predecessor.


Restomods have significantly influenced both car culture and the automotive industry, offering a new way to celebrate and reinterpret automotive history. The Kimera EVO37, inspired by the iconic Lancia 037 rally car of the 1980s, exemplifies this impact. The EVO37 retains the spirit of its predecessor with its retro silhouette but incorporates modern advancements like carbon fiber components and a reengineered engine, capable of delivering over 500 horsepower. This blend of heritage and innovation demonstrates how restomods are not only preserving the legacy of classic cars but also pushing their performance.
Restomods represent a unique intersection of tradition and innovation, breathing new life into classic cars while preserving their iconic essence. Whether through the meticulous craftsmanship of Singer Vehicle Design or the rally-inspired ingenuity of Automobili Amos, restomods continue to captivate automotive enthusiasts worldwide. By honoring the past and embracing modern technology, restomods redefine what it means to cherish and celebrate automotive history in a contemporary context.
Sources:
Information:
- https://borro.com/what-is-a-restomod-the-new-take-on-classic-cars/#:~:text=The%20restomod%20movement%20traces%20its,%2C%20safety%2C%20and%20comfort%20standards.
- https://singervehicledesign.com/automotive/
- https://www.hoodpin.co/drive-articles/the-rise-of-the-restomod
- https://restomods.com/what-is-a-restomod-137689/
- https://automobiliamos.it/pages/futurista#futurista02
- https://kimera-automobili.com/en/2022/03/25/kimera-evo37-in-martini-racing-livery/
Images:
- https://petrolicious.com/articles/singer-reveals-result-of-williams-collaboratio-restomod
- https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/singer-vehicle-design-reveals-turbo-study-for-porsche-964-1234662825/
- https://robbreport.com/motors/cars/singer-vehicle-design-reveals-turbo-study-for-porsche-964-1234662825/
- https://automobiliamos.it/pages/futurista#futurista02
- https://automobiliamos.it/pages/the-lancia-delta-safarista-by-automobili-amos
- https://automobiliamos.it/pages/the-lancia-delta-safarista-by-automobili-amos
- https://girardo.com/car/1982-lancia-037-rally-evo-1-group-b-2/
- https://kimera-automobili.com/en/2022/03/25/kimera-evo37-in-martini-racing-livery/
4 Comments. Leave new
I really enjoyed your post! I had such a different view on what restomods are, and it was super interesting reading about other form. I had never actually heard of Singer before, and it was remarkable how tasteful and seamless the example you gave was, I always viewed restomod as being a rough dichotomy where classic and new age elements had hard lines between them.
Thank you for your comment! Singer’s work is impressive! Restomods cover a huge range, I focused on some of the more refined and high detail ones.
Restomods are such a cool way to combine old and new, and your post really highlights why they’re so special. I love how they keep the classic style of vintage cars but add modern technology to make them safer, faster, and more comfortable. Companies like Singer Vehicle Design do an amazing job of blending history and innovation, turning classic cars into something even more impressive. I think Automobili Amos’ rally-inspired restomods are really interesting too. The way they’ve modernized the Lancia Delta Integrale while keeping its original charm is so creative. It’s awesome that they’ve made it tough enough for modern rallying while still looking like a classic. Restomods are more than just fixing up old cars—they’re a way to keep history alive while making it fit into today’s world. It’s exciting to see how they’re changing car culture and inspiring new ideas!
Totally agree! Restomods are such a cool way to mix old-school style with modern performance. Singer and Automobili Amos do an awesome job keeping the classic charm while making the cars even better.