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A restomod combines a restored classic with selected modern engineering, but there is no single formula: one build may retain the donor’s basic character while another reshapes its body, structure, or powertrain. These ten examples, selected by SlashGear and updated September 2, 2026, show how broad the category can be. They are an editorial selection, not a measured ranking; the descriptions below reflect the cited publications and builders rather than independent inspections or tests. SlashGear’s roundup
What makes a restomod different?
“Restomod” is an umbrella term for a vehicle that is restored and modernized. A project might update brakes, suspension, powertrain, structure, bodywork, comfort, or safety equipment; it need not change every system. The name alone does not tell you how much of the original car remains.
That distinction matters when comparing builds. Look at the donor vehicle and retained structure, whether the powertrain is preserved or replaced, the materials and chassis changes, the car’s intended use, and the available comfort, safety, and customization options.
10 standout restomods
SlashGear’s selection spans sports cars, a pickup, a four-wheel-drive truck, a luxury car, and an electric classic. The descriptions are source-reported, and the order is not a performance ranking.
#1 Best Overall
- V8 POWER: The model features a 400 cubic inch V8 engine, reflecting the muscle and power that defined the GTO's reputation.
- DETAILED SUSPENSION & EXHAUST: The kit incorporates separate rear suspension and exhaust detailing, adding to the realism of the model.
- BUCKET SEATS & CONSOLE: The model's interior features bucket seats and a floor shifter with a console, capturing the iconic look and feel of the GTO.
- OPTIONAL SUPERCHARGER: For those seeking more power, the kit offers an optional supercharger, allowing you to customize your model.
- CLEAR & COMPREHENSIVE INSTRUCTIONS: The included instructions are clear and user-friendly, making the kit accessible to modelers of different skill levels, from beginners to experienced hobbyists.
1. Totem Automobili Alfa Romeo Totem GT
The Totem GT starts with the Alfa Romeo Giulia GT and reimagines it as a carbon-fibre-bodied sports car. Its transformation makes it a striking example of how far a restomod can move from a conventional restoration while drawing on a classic design.
2. Volvo P1800 Cyan
Cyan Racing’s P1800 interpretation updates the classic Volvo coupe with a performance-focused approach. It stands apart from builds that prioritize luxury or utility: the appeal here is a modern sporting take on a recognizable vintage shape.
3. Legacy Classic Trucks Dodge Power Wagon
Legacy Classic Trucks modernizes the Dodge Power Wagon, a rugged four-wheel-drive truck, while retaining its utilitarian identity. This is a restomod aimed at capability and presence rather than simply recreating a period-correct truck.
Rank #2
- Versatile 3-in-1 Kit: Build your 1963 Chevy Corvette Sting Ray as factory stock, a street custom, or a drag gasser with this multi-option kit.
- Enhanced Features: Includes pre-lettered drag slicks, clear red taillights, and stock & custom wheels for an authentic and detailed build.
- Multiple Engine Options: Customize your model with various engine intake options, allowing for unique and personalized creations.
- Retro Styling: Comes with a full-color, retro-styled decal sheet and vintage “Street Rods Series” packaging, perfect for nostalgic collectors.
- High-Quality Collectible: AMT's improved reissue offers superior parts and detailing, making it a must-have for model enthusiasts and collectors.
4. Classic Recreations Shelby GT500CR
The GT500CR is a modernized, Shelby-inspired muscle car. It draws on the classic Mustang’s performance image while applying contemporary updates, making it a very different proposition from the electric Mini or the lightweight Porsche elsewhere on this list.
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1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems5. Ringbrothers’ 1961 Rolls-Royce Silver Cloud
Ringbrothers’ Silver Cloud is a one-off transformation of a 1961 luxury car. Its inclusion illustrates the restomod’s reach beyond sports cars and muscle cars: the donor’s grand-touring character and distinctive presence are central to the concept.
6. David Brown Automotive eMastered Mini
The eMastered Mini replaces the original car’s approach to propulsion with an electric powertrain. It is the clearest example here of a restomod changing not only how a classic drives, but also how it is powered.
Rank #3
- Revell Model Kit #14531, Skill Level 5, Contains 77-Parts, Recommended for ages 13 and up
- Detailed 440+6 V-8 engine, hood scoop that can be positioned open or closed
- Detailed interior with separate side panels and a front bench seat
- Molded in white and clear with chrome plated parts and black vinyl tires
- Illustrated assembly instructions. Requires paint and glue. (not included)
7. Kamm Porsche 912C
Kamm’s 912C takes the Porsche 912 in a lightweight, focused direction. Rather than treating modernization as a route to more comfort or equipment, it emphasizes the appeal of a pared-back sports car.
8. Havasu Speed’s Cashmere Lincoln
Havasu Speed’s Cashmere is a modified Lincoln Continental, bringing a large American luxury car into restomod territory. Its scale and styling make it a contrast to the compact Mini and the more overtly sporting builds.
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SlashGear’s article names two additional builds alongside the eight identified above. The available source material here does not establish their names or descriptions, so they cannot be responsibly identified or characterized without guessing.
Rank #4
- A PERENNIAL CLASSIC FOR EXPERIENCED MODELERS: AMT’s 1/25 scale 1967 Shelby GT-350 is the perfect project for muscle car builders. Add it to your collection today!
- FEATURE PACKED: The 1967 Shelby GT-350 is a historical muscle car that stands alone! Fully paintable, it features authentically detailed water-slide decals. Build it up right with a Ford 289 V8 engine and all the Shelby touches—custom rear lower pan, chrome wheels, custom taillights and front grille, bucket seats, and more. Wrapped up nicely in retro-styled packaging!
- QUICK SPECS: 1/25 Scale, 123 Parts, 7 inches long once assembled. Parts molded in white, clear and transparent red, with black vinyl tires. Some parts are chrome plated. Plastic model kit paint and cement required (Testors or Tamiya brands recommended). Paint guide included in kit. Skill Level 2. For ages 10+
- THE PERFECT PRESENT: Don't know what to get dad for his birthday? Or maybe you have an avid hobbyist or collector in your life. This model kit makes an ideal gift for any occasion!
How to compare a restomod beyond its headline figures
Two cars can both be called restomods while sharing little in construction or purpose. For a useful comparison, ask what each project actually changes.
- Donor and retained structure: Is the build based on an original chassis, a heavily modified donor, or a substantially re-engineered platform?
- Powertrain: Does it preserve the original type of engine, update it, or replace the combustion drivetrain altogether?
- Materials and chassis: Look for stated changes to body materials, chassis, suspension, and brakes rather than relying on appearance alone.
- Intended use: A road-tourer, track-focused sports car, work-oriented truck, and display-oriented one-off should not be judged by the same priorities.
- Comfort, safety, and choice: Check which modern features are included and what can be specified for the individual commission.
Specialist builders also take different approaches. In a 2021 comparison, Top Gear featured an Alfaholics GTA-R, Eagle Low Drag GT, Singer-reimagined Porsche 911, GTO Engineering 250 SWB Revival, and Aston Martin DB5 Continuation. For the specific cars in that feature, Top Gear described the Singer as beginning with a 964-generation 911, the Eagle as based on an original E-type chassis, and GTO Engineering’s car as built around an older 250 or 330 chassis. Those details describe the featured examples, not every vehicle made by those firms.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What published specifications can—and cannot—tell you
Numbers are useful only when their source and scope are clear. Alfaholics says each GTA-R receives more than 3,500 hours of work and lists 240 bhp Twin Spark configurations among its current builds. Those are builder-reported details from its GTA-R service and build information, not independently measured comparisons across the ten cars above.
Best Value
Likewise, Gunther Werks says its commissions begin with the 993-generation Porsche 911, which the company describes as the final air-cooled 911 generation, followed by a full teardown and re-engineering. That is the company’s account of its own process. Its stated goal—“The goal was never to replicate the past, but to evolve it”—captures one builder’s philosophy, not a definition that all restomod shops share.
These projects are generally specialist commissions rather than interchangeable production models. Before comparing a quoted power figure, build time, or specification, confirm which configuration it describes and whether the figure comes from the builder or an independent test.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
