Chevy Plans to Restore and Restomod Classic Cars, But Not Within the US | Carscoops

      One of Chevy’s refurbished C10 pickups will be fitted with a modern V8 engine sourced from a Camaro.

      16 hours ago

      by Brad Anderson

      The newly established Chevrolet Vintage program aims to restore classic models from the 1960s to the 1990s.

      Among the notable vehicles in this initiative are the Opala, Chevette, and 3100.

      GM is currently engaged in the restoration of a 1990 Monza Classic EF and a Chevrolet C10.

      Chevrolet has introduced an appealing restoration and restomod service for some of its classic models, although it is currently restricted to the Brazilian market. This new project commemorates GM’s centenary in the country and starts with a selection of iconic vehicles. Unfortunately, there are no updates about whether a similar initiative will be introduced in the U.S. in the near future.

      The project, titled Chevrolet Vintage, seeks to restore and modify a number of cars produced in Brazil from the 1960s to the 1990s, including the Opala, Chevette, and the 3100 Brasil pickup. The program presents two options: traditional restorations aimed at preserving the original appeal and features of these classics, and restomods that incorporate modern technology to improve comfort, safety, and reliability.

      The company is already working on a couple of vehicles as part of the program. The first is a restoration of a 1990 Chevrolet Monza Classic EF. This model is a modified version of the Opel Ascona C produced for Brazil and was notable as the first car in the country to feature electronic fuel injection. Details on the extent of work being done on the vehicle are not yet available, nor is it known if GM owns the Monza or if it has been commissioned by a private collector.

      Chevrolet Vintage is also applying a restomod upgrade to the classic 1975 Chevrolet C10 pickup, replacing it with a V8 engine from a Camaro for enhanced performance.

      While several other automakers provide restoration programs, these are generally reserved for higher-end models where it makes financial sense to invest significantly in refurbishing and upgrading them.

      In Japan, Nissan runs a restoration program for classic Skyline models, dedicated to restoring vehicles to their original factory specifications by disassembling them, treating the chassis to prevent rust, and completely rebuilding engines to achieve like-new condition.

      Regarding Chevy’s Vintage program, the press release offers minimal information. It remains uncertain how extensive the restorations and restomods will be. One thing is clear: as this is still a pilot program, if it fails to gain traction, it risk being as short-lived as the Monza’s role as Brazil’s pioneering car with electronic fuel injection.