Classic cars forum & vehicle restoration.

[Old-Nail]

I think that#s the difference between owning and driving an unmodified classic car and one that has had improvements done.

In the first case while you do have all the pitfalls of original manufacture, when you drive it you are re-living the experiences known and common to the cars owners back in the day.
I remember my 103e Popular used to allow engine fumes into the cab when pushed hard, I researched this by reading period car magazines and found it was a known and accepted part of ownership!

in the case of a modified from standard, well that makes sense to make the car more driveable, comfortable, and reliable, and as such is a sensible way to continue to use and enjoy an old car.

The best way is if we can strike a balance between originality, and useability in the 21st century as I for one am masochistic enough to actually enjoy those 'period' foibles, although i do admit they can get wearisome in regular use.

[Uncle Joe]

I suppose that we are broadly in agreement here. As I have previously said, some cars I wouldnt touch. Not because theres no need need to just because it would spoil them. Cars that I would put in this category would be a Citroen DS, or possibly a mk 2 Jag.

Then there are changes that would suit the ''spirit'' of the car. Everyone keeps telling me that 2CV's are fun. But I think that a 4WD 2CV would be even funnier, especially in the winter here.... To my own 300, i have fitted a ''six pack'' upgrade. 300's were the first musclecars, and it seemed to me that it was a shame that Chryslers ultimate street engine was never fitted.

Finally for me, until I think of any more reasons, there are upgrades that I find technically challenging. I'm currently sourcing all of the parts I need to change the front drums to discs on my car. In doing this, I will be changing from a single line to a double line system. In itself, challenging. but on top of that, I will be adding a valve to the system to ensure that the rear brakes are applied before the front...

[Ricky426]

Really interesting post guys!

I agree, some cars are prone to custom, some other no.
I am doing a "resification" process on my 300, like UJ. Maybe more radical...
A really big engine is the dream of every Mopar fan, but without upgrading suspensions, brakes, rear end and transmission the car can become a coffin. In my personal taste, the better way is to upgrade all the chassis parts with the best modern upgrades on the market, while trying to keep the original engineering project (ex. if the car has rear leaf suspensions I prefer to restore them with poly bushings and adding lefs if necessary, not to convert to a 4 link)
I'm also converting, like UJ, to discs with dual line system but I'll have a different valve because mine will be a disc-disc conversion so I have only to prevent rear wheel lockup during severe braking!