Introduction
In the world of classic cars, Jay Leno stands as one of the most respected authorities. His passion for vintage vehicles and deep technical knowledge have made his show Jay Leno’s Garage a go-to destination for auto enthusiasts. While many collectors focus on preserving vehicles in original condition, Jay has increasingly championed restomods — vintage cars restored with modern performance, safety, and convenience upgrades.
Recently, Leno showcased three restomods that he believes set the gold standard for blending history and innovation. In this article, we dive into the details of these builds, why they impressed Leno, and what they mean for the future of custom automotive craftsmanship.
What Are Restomods?
Restomod is a combination of “restoration” and “modification.” Unlike pure restorations, which aim to return a vehicle to its original showroom condition, restomods integrate modern technologies into classic bodies. Think digital gauges in a 1960s dashboard or a 700-hp engine under the hood of a vintage pony car.
Restomods aim to retain the spirit and style of the original vehicle while making it safer, more reliable, and more fun to drive in today’s world. Jay Leno, with decades of hands-on mechanical experience, is especially critical about how well these upgrades are implemented — and these three builds pass with flying colors.
1. 1968 Ford Bronco by Gateway Bronco
The first restomod that caught Jay Leno’s eye is the 1968 Ford Bronco rebuilt by Gateway Bronco, a renowned name in high-end Bronco restorations.
Key Features:
- Engine: Ford 5.0L Coyote V8 (460+ hp)
- Transmission: 10-speed automatic
- Interior: Diamond-stitched leather, modern infotainment, air conditioning
- Chassis: Fully rebuilt with modern suspension and anti-lock brakes
Jay emphasized how this Bronco stays true to its rugged off-road roots, yet now offers a smooth, luxurious driving experience on par with modern SUVs. From the outside, it still looks like the boxy legend from the 1960s, but inside, it’s a different world — plush leather, advanced climate control, and soundproofing make it ideal for both the trail and the highway.
“It’s the perfect example of how to modernize without sterilizing,” Jay remarked.
What stood out to Leno most was Gateway’s craftsmanship — every weld, panel, and component is meticulously assembled. For a vehicle that originally came with a three-speed manual and barely 100 horsepower, the transformation is dramatic.
2. 1971 Dodge Challenger by SpeedKore
Jay’s second favorite restomod is the 1971 Dodge Challenger built by SpeedKore Performance Group, famous for their aggressive muscle car builds and their use of carbon fiber.
Key Features:
- Body: Full carbon fiber replacement panels
- Engine: Hellcat V8 with over 700 horsepower
- Suspension: Custom performance setup with track-ready tuning
- Brakes: Brembo high-performance braking system
This build represents the future of muscle cars, according to Jay. By replacing traditional steel with lightweight carbon fiber, SpeedKore not only reduced the car’s weight but also improved its handling, acceleration, and fuel efficiency.
What impressed Jay was that the car didn’t just look fast — it delivered supercar-level performance. Despite its old-school appearance, it handled like a modern sports car.
“This is how you keep muscle cars alive for the next generation — give them power and poise,” Leno commented.
This restomod highlights how performance upgrades, when carefully integrated, can make a classic car safer, faster, and more enjoyable, all while preserving its intimidating road presence.
3. 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray by Kindig-It Design
The final pick from Jay Leno’s restomod showcase is the 1967 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, built by Kindig-It Design, a custom shop known for their elegant, clean, and highly detailed automotive transformations.
Key Features:
- Engine: Chevrolet LS3 V8 crate engine (525 horsepower)
- Interior: Hand-stitched leather, digital dash, modern HVAC
- Suspension: Independent coil-over suspension for improved ride and handling
- Design: Maintains original Stingray silhouette with subtle enhancements
Jay was particularly drawn to this Corvette because of its subtle elegance. While many restomods scream for attention, Kindig-It chose to refine rather than reinvent. The lines of the Stingray remain untouched, yet the entire vehicle now benefits from modern drivability and interior comfort.
“You wouldn’t know this was a restomod until you get in and drive it,” Jay said.
The use of the LS3 engine gives the car effortless performance, while the updated electronics and suspension provide a smooth and reliable ride — without taking away the raw, emotional feel of driving a Stingray.
Why Jay Leno’s Restomod Picks Matter
Jay Leno doesn’t just admire cars — he understands them. With a collection of over 180 vehicles and decades of hands-on work in his personal garage, his perspective on what makes a good restomod carries weight.
His emphasis on functionality, authenticity, and craftsmanship is what sets these builds apart from the average modified classic. These aren’t just cars made to win awards — they’re built to be driven and enjoyed.
Leno’s approval signals to builders that respecting the car’s heritage while enhancing its performance and comfort is the right way forward. In a world where collectors sometimes hesitate to modify originals, Jay is helping redefine what car preservation means in the 21st century.
What Makes a Restomod “Done Right”?
From Leno’s perspective, a successful restomod must achieve three key goals:
- Preserve the Soul of the Car
Don’t erase what makes the car iconic — enhance it. Keep the design language and attitude intact. - Improve Performance Without Overdoing It
Adding horsepower and new tech is great, but it should serve a purpose. Balance is key. - Build for Driveability
A restomod should be more than a showpiece. It should be something the owner wants to drive daily, not just on weekends.
The Future of Restomods
Jay Leno believes the future of classic car collecting is increasingly tied to restomods. As younger generations look for modern convenience with vintage charm, the demand for well-built restomods will continue to grow. Shops like Ringbrothers, Roadster Shop, ICON, Kindig-It, SpeedKore, and Gateway Bronco are already setting new standards.