Do you have a classic car that you love, but want to give it some modern upgrades? People who buy classic cars wish to restore them to gain back some nostalgia.
But, If you’re using them as a daily driver, you’ll probably want to have some modern technology incorporated in your classic ride to make things a little more comfortable.
The goods news is that you can incorporate modern technology in your classic car while still preserving the essence and glory of your vehicle once possessed when it rolled off the production line.
Make sure to keep scrolling, because in this article we are going over the seven best modern upgrades for your classic car.
1. Air Conditioning Upgrade
When it comes to classic cars, some might not have air conditioning, or if it does, it doesn’t work anymore or functions poorly. If you live in a hot climate, an air conditioning upgrade is necessary to enjoy your ride comfortably.
Most modern air conditioners in cars use the R134 air conditioning system. These systems use four main components: the evaporator, compressor, expansion valve, and condenser.
There are performance parts stores online that sell kits specifically for installing modern A/C in old classic cars.
If there’s one major upgrade that you’re considering for an older car, consider upgrading the air conditioning system.
2. Engine Swap or Replacement
Buying a classic car has risks. One of the most significant risks is the availability of mechanical parts – specifically engine parts. These parts need to be rebuilt or replaced at some point, and if the manufacturer went out of business or the parts are no longer available, it can make your investment worthless.
One of the best ways to remedy this situation is by doing an engine swap with a more modern engine.
Doing this can make your car run more efficiently, provide added power, and make you worry less about limited part availability.
3. Upgrade to Disc Brakes
One of the best modern upgrades you can do for your classic car is upgrading to disc brakes. If you have an older car more than 30 years old, your car likely came with drum brakes. Either two in the back or on all four.
Drum brakes are great because they can put out superior braking when you need to come to a quick halt. The bad news is that drum brakes can wear out quickly and require constant adjustments, cleaning, and replacing parts.
The good thing about upgrading to disc brakes is that most vendors sell disc brake kits. They’re relatively easy to install and are provide more safety than drum brakes.
4. Upgrading to Power Steering
Before 1951, cars didn’t have power steering. If you know what it’s like to drive without power steering, you’ll know that it can be challenging and somewhat dangerous.
You may be proud of yourself for accomplishing such feats like driving through crowded streets or cluttered parking lots, but the force you need to accomplish this can wear you down quickly.
The best thing to do to make driving more comfortable is by upgrading to a power steering system. When upgrading to power steering, you’ll cut fuel cost, fuel consumption and will make u-turns a little easier.
5. Modern Engine Fan
Engine fans in older cars are engine-driven and turn on and off depending on your speed.
Driving into a headwind will typically be enough to keep your engine from overheating. Still, if your caught in a tailwind or face an incline going at a low speed, the fan will slow down, and you may encounter your engine overheating.
Modern auxiliary fans for your radiator and engine bay are equipped with sensors that read the temperature of your engine. When the temperature reaches the threshold, the fan automatically kicks on. If your car is equipped with an engine-driven fan, consider switching it out with an electric fan.
Doing this can avoid your engine overheating, which can save you thousands in repair.
6. Electronic Ignition System
Most cars that were built before the 1980s came with a points ignition system. This design switches the ignition coil on and off. Over time, these contact points will deteriorate, which can cause performance and starting problems. On top of that, points ignition systems have more moving parts – more moving parts makes it more likely for something to fail.
An electronic ignition system has fewer moving parts and will give you the same starting mechanics as a points contact system.
In the end, an electronic ignition system is more reliable and leaves you less likely to be stranded somewhere.
7. Radial Tires
Most classic cars were equipped with either Bias-ply tires. These tires were designed with cords that create a cross pattern going throughout the tire. This pattern will create a lot of heat, which will wear down your tires, and also limit your cars handling traction.
Radial tires are designed with the cords going parallel rather than intersecting. A radial design will eliminate many of the issues with bias-ply tires, while providing superiors traction, handling cornering and steering capabilities.
If you’re still a purist, some companies design radial tires with a bias-ply look. This will give you the look that you want while holding on to the safety and performance aspects of your tires.
Which Modern Upgrades are the Best for Me?
When it comes to modern upgrades, it really depends on your taste. Most of these classic car upgrades are for enhanced safety, performance, and comfort. You can go all out and do a completely modern interior upgrade such as touchscreen command centers, interactive dashboards, and premium speakers systems.
If performance is your cup of tea, you can add turbos, superchargers, or upgrade your exhaust system.
The bottom line, the sky is the limit when it comes to upgrading your classic car? Are you still looking for the classic car of your dreams? Visit us here, and we’ll help you find the classic car you’ve been looking for.
