If Machine Revival is today recognized as a leading Restomod specialist in France, particularly for Porsche, American, and German cars, this automotive trend from the United States continues to evolve. Discover the origins, philosophy, and defining features of Restomod.
Origins of Restomod
The term Restomod, a blend of “restoration” and “modification,” refers to the practice of restoring classic cars while upgrading them with modern technology, performance, and comfort—all without compromising their original style. This movement emerged from the passion of vintage car enthusiasts who wanted to combine the timeless elegance of classic automobiles with contemporary driving capabilities.
Historically, Restomod originated in the United States during the 1970s, when car enthusiasts began modernizing classic vehicles by upgrading engines, suspensions, brakes, and other key components. This approach allowed older cars to remain reliable, safe, and enjoyable to drive while preserving their iconic aesthetics.
Restomod vs. Tuning
Although Restomod shares some similarities with tuning—sometimes called “retro tuning”—there is a crucial difference. Tuning often emphasizes flashy or eccentric designs, while Restomod focuses on respecting the original lines and character of the car.
At top workshops like Machine Revival, upgrades are designed to be subtle yet functional. High-performance brakes, tires, and engine improvements are integrated carefully, preserving the vehicle’s classic look while enhancing reliability, safety, and driving enjoyment. Every detail is meticulously executed, ensuring each car retains its timeless elegance.
The Spirit of Machine Revival Restomods
For Machine Revival, Restomod is more than just performance and aesthetics—it is a philosophy. Every car is crafted with a focus on driving pleasure, combining the workshop’s full range of expertise, including design, engine building, bodywork, painting, and upholstery.
Clients of Machine Revival often already own high-performance, luxury vehicles, but true driving enjoyment is what sets a Restomod apart. Nicolas Quiles and his team create cars that fully reflect the owner’s desires, where lightness and balance are prioritized over raw power. This subtle approach ensures a driving experience that is both thrilling and refined.
Machine Revival Signature Models
Creating a Restomod is both an art and a science. It requires significant investment in time, skill, and materials. At Machine Revival, each Restomod is treated as a bespoke mechanical masterpiece, crafted exclusively for its owner.
The “MR Signature” models are more than just cars—they are precision-engineered toys designed for pure driving pleasure. Every aspect, from handling and performance to sound and reliability, is optimized to match the owner’s vision, making each Porsche Restomod truly unique.
