JDM Pure or Resto?

I recently  had the opportunity to rebuild a  76 Mitsubishi  “L-Type” Lancer. The car is an awesome display of oldschool material, with mods to a modern Galant GTI 4G63 under carriage, five speed tranny and diff from the modern Lancer GT, performance suspension, electric powersteering, etcetera. With all these, we are now imagining how it will perform given the very light frame of the L-type. To me it sounds exciting to know that this car, with its untouched classic look, will drive and handle like a new car with more modern technologies. I imagine that there are the purists out there reading this article that will cry “foul” and say this is not how a classic JDM coupe should be treated.

These resto-mod builds can range from mild to wild and it basically depends on how far your imagination can take you and how deep your wallet is. You can just add a few suspension mods, soup up the engine or install a whole new powerplant and drivetrain! The possibilities are endless and can reach as far as innovation can take you. I’ve recently seen some tasteful combinations in Subic that deserve a second look. The surplus modern engines that are readily available make it simple to drop instant power/torque and convenience into your ride.

The Internet is also a source of readily available resto-mod parts. In just the last few years, there are companies offering retooled sheet metal body parts that give you a giant leap forward in your build. For instance, the VW Beetle can be completely rebuilt with complete body panels including floor tubs from CIP1. This will simplify your project and save you hours of labor and sweat!

I’m not trying to sway you away from restoring your favorite oldshool and bringing that “numbers matching” classic back to life. But if you find a non-original vehicle that is calling your name, then consider a resto-mod and make it your own. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoy seeing a fully restored classic in its original condition because it has that fresh off the showroom look and can give you a sense of what the car looked like when it was new. However, it is always cool to see a Mitsubishi Lancer L-Type with a modern 4G63 engine and custom suspension or 72 Toyota Celica with a Beams 3SGE engine. All these have to be done with the idea of improving performance and yet maintaining the Oldschool historic look.

Hopefully I’ve given you some insight on your next build or maybe you have been inspired to consider a resto-mod project. Just remember though that whatever you do, make it your own and enjoy the journey along the way.