Dave Kindig and his team at Bitchin' Rides have built a reputation for tackling ambitious restoration projects, often transforming classic cars with modern upgrades. One of their standout projects involved restoring a classic Cadillac, combining timeless aesthetics with contemporary performance and comfort. This episode, part of their series on MotorTrend TV, showcases how Kindig's team masterfully navigates the challenges of modernizing an iconic vehicle while preserving its heritage.
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Restoring a Cadillac with a Modern Touch
In this episode, Kindig and his crew take on a Cadillac from the 1960s, a time when these luxury vehicles symbolized American automotive grandeur. The car, initially in rough condition, presented the team with numerous hurdles, from sourcing rare parts to addressing mechanical and cosmetic flaws. However, the team at Kindig-it Design thrives on such challenges. Known for blending old-school craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology, they embarked on transforming this Cadillac into a modern masterpiece while honoring its original design.
Preserving the Classic Look
One of the key elements of this restoration was maintaining the sleek, elegant lines that define Cadillac’s mid-century designs. Kindig is meticulous about respecting the car's original aesthetic, a principle that has earned him a loyal following among purists and modern car enthusiasts alike. In this project, Kindig's team focused on refinishing the bodywork to showroom condition, using period-correct materials and paint techniques. The result is a gleaming exterior that retains its vintage charm, but with enhancements that make it more suitable for today's roads.
Power and Performance Enhancements
While keeping the car’s exterior true to its roots, the team also addressed performance upgrades that would make this Cadillac as powerful as it is beautiful. The original engine, while iconic, lacked the horsepower and efficiency expected from modern vehicles. Kindig’s team installed a new crate engine, significantly boosting performance while improving fuel efficiency. Modern drivetrains and suspension systems were also incorporated, making the Cadillac handle like a new car without compromising its classic feel.
These updates aren't just for performance; they also improve safety. With upgraded brakes and suspension, the vehicle now drives like a contemporary car, handling smoothly while retaining its massive, iconic frame. This balance of old and new is a hallmark of Kindig’s work. The team added modern conveniences such as power steering and air conditioning, ensuring that while the car looks like it belongs to the 1960s, it drives like a luxury vehicle from the present day.
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Interior Transformation
No Kindig restoration would be complete without a focus on the interior, and the Cadillac was no exception. The interior was updated with high-end, custom materials that complemented the car's original design. The team opted for luxurious leather seating, retrofitted to offer the comfort expected in a modern car. Additionally, they integrated advanced tech features like touchscreen navigation, modern sound systems, and Bluetooth connectivity—all seamlessly incorporated into the classic dashboard design.
What sets Kindig’s approach apart is the subtlety with which these modern touches are added. Rather than overwhelming the car's vintage feel, the new features are designed to blend into the background, enhancing the driving experience without detracting from the Cadillac's retro appeal.
Overcoming Challenges
Restoring a classic Cadillac with modern upgrades is not without its difficulties. Parts for these cars are often hard to come by, and the restoration process can reveal unforeseen issues. For this project, sourcing original components that could withstand modern performance demands was a considerable challenge. The team at Kindig-it Design had to fabricate many parts in-house, an endeavor that showcased their exceptional craftsmanship and engineering skills. This ability to merge traditional restoration techniques with advanced technology is one of the reasons Kindig and his team are highly regarded in the custom car industry.
Client Expectations and Reveal
The owner of the Cadillac had high expectations, not just for the car’s performance, but also for its appearance. As with most of Kindig's projects, there was a personal connection to the vehicle, which meant the stakes were even higher. The reveal, a highlight of every episode of Bitchin' Rides, was met with overwhelming excitement. The client's reaction to seeing their beloved Cadillac brought back to life with modern flair was emotional and rewarding, reinforcing why Kindig’s approach to custom builds is so beloved.
Dave Kindig’s restoration of the classic Cadillac exemplifies his team's ability to marry the past and present, creating a vehicle that is as enjoyable to drive as it is to look at. This project serves as a testament to Kindig’s philosophy that car restoration is an art form, one that requires a deep respect for automotive history coupled with an eye toward modern innovation. Through Bitchin' Rides, Kindig continues to inspire both car enthusiasts and casual viewers with his meticulous attention to detail and passion for creating "bitchin’ rides" that stand the test of time.
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