Classic Restoration vs Restomod: Which Path is Right for Your Classic Car?
Classic cars have a special kind of magic. Whether it’s the curves of a Jaguar E-Type, the utilitarian charm of a Land Rover Series I, or the growl of an old Mustang, these vehicles stir something deep in every car enthusiast. But once you’ve found the right car—or inherited a project—one big decision looms:
Should you go for a faithful restoration, or build a restomod?
At Oreham Vehicles Ltd, we specialise in classic vehicle interiors and upholstery restoration from our workshop in West Sussex. Whether you want to preserve every stitch of originality or reimagine your cabin with modern materials and custom touches, we help owners transform their interiors while staying true to their car’s character.
What is a Classic Car Restoration?
A classic restoration focuses on authenticity—and that includes the interior. From period-correct seat upholstery and headliners to vintage trim and fittings, the aim is to make the inside of the car feel exactly as it did when it rolled off the production line.
Pros:
Value retention: Interiors restored to factory-correct condition can significantly boost the vehicle’s value.
Historic integrity: You preserve a piece of motoring history, right down to the stitching and materials.
Appeals to purists: Ideal for collectors and concours-level classic car events.
Cons:
Time-consuming and detail-heavy: Authentic materials (like wool headlining or leather piping) are often hard to find and require skilled craftsmanship.
Outdated comfort: Classic seats and layouts weren’t designed with today’s ergonomics in mind.
Not always suited to regular use: Especially if you want a daily driver with comfort and convenience.
At Oreham Vehicles Ltd, we’ve reupholstered everything from Series Land Rovers to VW campers and Jaguars—respecting original designs, materials, and construction methods throughout.
What is a Restomod?
A restomod takes a different route: you keep the vintage look but introduce modern upgrades for comfort, function, and personal style—especially on the inside. Think re-shaped bolstered seats, upgraded sound systems, USB charging ports, ambient lighting, or even air conditioning—all seamlessly integrated into a classic cabin.
Pros:
Comfort and usability: Modern seat foams, fabrics, and finishes make long drives much more enjoyable.
Creative freedom: You can personalise every element of the interior to suit your lifestyle.
Classic aesthetics, modern functionality: Enjoy the vintage look with 21st-century comfort.
Cons:
Not historically accurate: Some collectors may shy away from restomod interiors that deviate too far from original specs.
Cost: Bespoke interiors with modern features can be a larger investment.
Balance is key: It’s easy to go overboard and lose the classic feel if not done with care.
We love working on restomod interiors in Sussex, blending classic car character with thoughtful, practical enhancements—tailored to how you want to use your vehicle.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
Here are a few questions to help you decide what kind of interior restoration suits your project:
1. What’s the end goal?
For concours events, resale value, or period-correct preservation, a classic interior restoration is ideal.
For regular driving, family trips, or personal comfort, a restomod interior might make more sense.
2. How rare or collectible is the car?
Originality matters more for rare models. For others, tasteful upgrades can actually boost appeal.
3. What’s your lifestyle like?
Do you want to use the car for road trips, events, or daily use? That often points toward restomod interiors.
If it's a weekend show car or part of a collection, authenticity might be your priority.
Final Thoughts
Whether you choose to preserve the past or reinterpret it for modern life, your car’s interior plays a huge role in how it feels, looks, and drives.
At Oreham Vehicles Ltd, we focus on vehicle upholstery and interiors, from factory-accurate rebuilds to bespoke, modernised restomods. Based in Henfield, West Sussex, we combine craftsmanship with creativity to breathe new life into classic cabins—while keeping your vision front and centre.
If you're unsure which route to take, get in touch—we’re always happy to chat interiors and help you plan the perfect transformation.
