As the collector car market evolves, restomods have firmly established themselves as a legitimate—and often lucrative—corner of the automotive world. Initially met with skepticism, the restomod movement has matured into a fusion of classic aesthetics and cutting-edge performance, producing some of the most jaw-dropping builds in the industry. Here’s a look at several muscle car restomods that command attention and top-dollar status.
Ringbrothers 1969 Dodge Charger “Defector 2.0”
Originally introduced at the 2017 SEMA Show, this sinister blacked-out Charger has since received a 1,000-horsepower Hellephant V8—one of just 100 ever produced. It blends factory styling with extreme performance, making it one of the most powerful Chargers ever created.
Classic Recreations “Hitman” 1969 Mustang Mach 1
Licensed by Ford, this twin-turbo Mach 1 starts with an original shell restored to factory specs, then fitted with a twin-turbocharged Coyote V8 cranking out 1,000 horsepower. Built by Oklahoma-based Classic Recreations, it joins a prestigious line of officially sanctioned Mustang restomods.
Foose Design 1969 Camaro LT4
Chip Foose’s creation pairs a C7 Corvette Z06-sourced LT4 V8 with a custom chassis, MagnaFlow exhaust, and Baer brakes. Finished in Deep Impact Blue with Foose Star Thruster wheels, it exemplifies balance between modern muscle and classic form.
SpeedKore 1970 Dodge Charger “Hellraiser”
Built with a full carbon fiber body and powered by a 1,000-horsepower Hellephant V8, this modernized Mopar rides on upgraded Corvette-style suspension. It features Brembo brakes, Michelin Pilot Sport tires, and a ZF eight-speed automatic borrowed from the Dodge Demon.
Ringbrothers 1967 Mustang “Copperback”
Clad in Copper Burnt Orange over carbon fiber bodywork, this Mustang packs a 560-horsepower Roush 427 V8, Tremec 5-speed, and Currie 9-inch rear end. The interior includes Recaro seats and custom upholstery, reflecting the same obsessive detail found throughout the build.
Pure Vision 1971 Pontiac GTO Convertible
Built for drivability and aesthetics, this GTO features an LS8 engine and GM-controlled automatic transmission, all riding on a custom Schwartz chassis. The car was resurrected from a field and now commands show-level attention.
Robert Downey Jr.’s 1970 Mustang Boss 302
SpeedKore delivered a Mustang fit for Iron Man, with carbon fiber bodywork, billet accents, custom HRE wheels, and a luxurious European-inspired interior. Downey’s personal touch adds even more cachet to this bespoke build.
Pure Vision 1972 Camaro – 1,320 HP Monster
Steve Strope’s Chevy masterpiece features twin turbos producing 1,320 horsepower. The engine was set back three inches for balance, and a 24-karat gold-plated fire shield—like that used in the McLaren F1—adds supercar flair to this muscle-bound showstopper.
From carbon fiber craftsmanship to four-digit horsepower numbers, these restomods aren’t just tributes to the past—they’re a bold reimagining of what American muscle can become.