A new player is entering the online collector car space, and it’s coming with a familiar name behind it. RestoMod has officially launched BuyTheCar, a new auction-based platform focused on RestoMods, classic cars, and pre-1985 vehicles—kicking things off with a no-reserve 1970 Chevelle SS Tribute.
The launch isn’t just another listing site. RestoMod is clearly leaning into its existing audience and content-driven approach, aiming to blend enthusiast media with a live auction marketplace.
Founding Member Access Opens First Auction
Early users are getting a head start. Anyone who signs up before April 16 will receive founding member access, which includes the ability to bid on the platform’s first featured vehicle—a 1970 Chevrolet Chevelle SS Tribute offered at no reserve.
That opening move says a lot about the strategy. No reserve auctions tend to generate attention quickly, and leading with a Chevelle—arguably one of the most recognizable muscle cars ever built—sets the tone for what the platform wants to be.
A Curated Approach to Classic Cars
Rather than flooding the site with volume, BuyTheCar is positioning itself as a curated auction platform. According to RestoMod, upcoming listings will focus on:
- RestoMods
- Classic cars
- Pre-1985 vehicles
That narrower focus could help it stand out in a crowded online auction space where variety sometimes comes at the expense of quality.
What Makes BuyTheCar Different
RestoMod is also trying to differentiate the platform with a few key features.
For sellers, there’s an immediate incentive: $0 seller fees for a limited time, paired with exposure to RestoMod’s built-in enthusiast audience.
For buyers, the emphasis is on transparency. Each vehicle listing includes a “Wrench Report”—a detailed evaluation created by Chris Esparza and the RestoMods team. The idea is to give bidders a clearer picture of what they’re actually buying, something that has become increasingly important in online auctions.
Blending Media and Marketplace
This launch feels like a natural extension of what RestoMod already does. Instead of just showcasing builds and stories, BuyTheCar turns that audience into active participants—buyers and sellers in a live marketplace.
It’s a model that’s worked elsewhere, but success here will likely come down to execution: quality of listings, trust in the inspection process, and how engaged that audience really is when it comes time to bid.
What Comes Next
With the first Chevelle auction set to draw attention, the next few weeks will be key. RestoMod says a steady stream of curated vehicles is on the way, which will ultimately determine whether BuyTheCar becomes a serious contender or just another short-lived platform.
For now, though, the approach is clear: start with a recognizable car, remove the reserve, and get enthusiasts involved early.
That combination alone should make the opening auction worth watching.
Some benefits to BuyTheCar:
1. Have a car to sell? Take advantage of RestoMod’s passionate audience on BuyTheCar plus $0 seller fees for a limited time. Sell your ride: https://restomods.buythecar.com/sell
2. Looking to buy? Buy with confidence on BuyTheCar. Each listing includes a ‘Wrench Report’ by Chris Esparza and the expert team at RestoMods.
More information on how it works: https://restomods.buythecar.com/how-it-works
About BuyTheCar.com: https://restomods.buythecar.com/about
Eve Nowell