Best Modern Upgrades for Your Classic Car

Do you have a classic car you want to give some modern upgrades? It’s possible to modernise key elements of your car without losing the classic appeal. Whether it’s to improve drivability or make it more roadworthy, there are some easy modern upgrades that will mesh well with the essence and glory of the original vehicle.

Modern Upgrades for Your Classic Car

1. Air Conditioning

Your classic car might not have air conditioning or it might have a system that doesn’t work well enough even for mild British summers. If this is the case, upgrading the air conditioning is a great start.

Although most modern cars use the R134 air conditioning system, there are specific systems made for classic models.

2. Engine Replacement

It can be incredibly difficult to find engine parts for some classic cars, simply because they are not in circulation anymore.

In this case, swapping the engine with a modern replacement is an option. This will make the car run more efficiently, give added power, and eliminate the stress of sourcing rare engine parts.

3. Disc Brakes

If your classic car is more than 30 years old, it most likely has drum brakes. These are incredibly effective when you need to come to an emergency stop, but they wear quickly and need constant adjustments, cleaning, and replacement.

Upgrading to disc brakes are safer than drum brakes, don’t wear as quickly, and don’t need as much maintenance.

4. Power Steering

Cars didn’t have power steering until after 1951, and if you know what it’s like to drive without power steering, you’ll know what a challenge it can be.

One of the most popular classic car upgrades is installing power steering. This not only makes the car easier to manoeuvre but also makes the car much safer. Not to mention you’ll reduce your fuel cost and consumption.

5. Engine Fan

Original engine fans in classic cars turn on and off depending on your speed. If you’re driving up a steep incline slowly, the fan will slow down and your car could overheat.

Modern auxiliary fans read the temperature of the engine and prevent it from overheating. This is much safer and reduces the risk of breakdowns due to the engine overheating (saving you thousands on costly repairs).

6. Electronic Ignition System

Most classic cars built before 1980 have a points ignition system. Over time though, the contact points wear and result in problems starting the engine. What’s more, these older systems have more moving parts meaning you’re more likely to run into issues.

Electronic ignition systems have fewer moving parts and are much more reliable, giving you a smoother driving experience.

Thinking About Modern Upgrades for Your Classic Car?

There is a range of modern upgrades that can improve the performance and drivability of a classic car. But that doesn’t mean all modern upgrades work for all classic cars. If you’re wondering which upgrades would work best for your classic car, get in touch with our team in Newbury today. We’ll discuss your car and let you know what could work for you.

classic car refurbishment in Newbury

"Extensive damage was caused to the front and rear nearside doors, and the quality of his craftsmanship was excellent. Mr Smith was selected because four years previously I commissioned him to repair my own private vehicle, and I was very impressed with the high quality of workmanship and the attention to detail, resulting in an excellent finished product. Mr Smith has always been exceptionally reliable, totally trustworthy, and I would certainly call upon his services again if required."

Steve Combes