Dave Kindig, the mastermind behind Bitchin’ Rides, continues to wow the automotive world with his creative restorations, and his latest project—a stunning 1960s Corvette restomod—is no exception. Known for blending classic automotive styles with cutting-edge technology, Kindig and his team at Kindig-It Design in Salt Lake City are redefining what it means to modernize a vintage car while respecting its heritage.
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In the world of car enthusiasts, restomods—classic vehicles restored with modern parts and features—have gained popularity for delivering the best of both worlds: timeless aesthetics combined with contemporary performance. Dave Kindig has long been at the forefront of this movement, especially with iconic builds like the Corvette restomod unveiled on Bitchin’ Rides.
The Vision Behind the Build
Kindig's approach to creating a restomod is unique. Instead of merely upgrading an old car with modern parts, he strives to maintain the spirit of the original vehicle while improving its performance, aesthetics, and functionality. For this particular Corvette, the vision was clear: preserve the charm of the 1960s model but add a modern twist that enhances drivability and reliability. The result is a seamless blend of vintage design and cutting-edge technology.
This isn’t Kindig’s first Corvette project either. Over the years, he has worked on several Corvette restomods, including the famous 1953 CF1 series Corvette, which set records at the Mecum Auction in Kissimmee, Florida, selling for $770,000. His reputation for handling Corvettes with a meticulous eye for detail made the unveiling of this 1960s model highly anticipated.
Key Features of the Corvette Restomod
One of the standout features of the 1960s Corvette restomod is its updated chassis. The original Corvette was known for its sleek body, but it lacked the refined handling of today’s sports cars. To solve this, Kindig replaced the stock chassis with a custom-built Art Morrison chassis. This upgrade provides the vehicle with modern suspension and steering systems, dramatically improving its handling and ride comfort. The updated chassis is a hallmark of Kindig's designs, and it's what transforms these classic vehicles into drivable masterpieces fit for the modern road.
The bodywork on this Corvette is another area where Kindig's craftsmanship shines. The fiberglass body of the original Corvette was revolutionary at the time, but after decades of wear and tear, it needed significant attention. The Kindig-It team painstakingly restored the Corvette’s body, ensuring it retained the sleek, aerodynamic lines that made it iconic. They also incorporated modern design elements, such as smoothed-out bumpers and custom door handles, to give the car a cleaner, more refined appearance.
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The car’s engine, too, has been brought into the 21st century. While the original Corvette engine had respectable power for its time, it pales in comparison to the performance of today’s high-performance sports cars. For this build, Kindig opted for a Lingenfelter-tuned LS7 engine. This powerplant produces an impressive 670 horsepower, ensuring that this restomod performs as well as it looks. Paired with a modern 4-speed automatic transmission, this Corvette is as capable on the track as it is on the open road.
Modern Interior with Vintage Flair
When it comes to the interior, Kindig once again strikes the perfect balance between old and new. The 1960s Corvette was known for its minimalist cockpit, but for modern drivers, comfort and technology are key. The custom leather interior retains the classic Corvette feel while incorporating contemporary touches like Dakota Digital gauges, a Vintage Air system, and a custom steering wheel. Every detail is meticulously crafted, from the seats to the dashboard, blending vintage aesthetics with modern convenience.
Kindig's use of 3D printing technology in some interior components further showcases his commitment to innovation. These subtle yet impactful modernizations ensure that the car’s interior complements the high-performance engine and suspension, offering a driving experience that’s as comfortable as it is thrilling.
Public Reception and Legacy
The unveiling of this 1960s Corvette restomod has been met with widespread acclaim. Car enthusiasts appreciate how Dave Kindig manages to honor the legacy of the Corvette while bringing it into the modern era. It’s this ability to respect the past while embracing the future that has cemented Kindig's place as one of the leading figures in custom car design. His work has not only breathed new life into classic cars but has also set new standards for what a restomod can achieve.
As seen with past builds, Kindig’s Corvette restomods are likely to become collector’s items, sought after by those who appreciate the intersection of art, craftsmanship, and engineering. For fans of Bitchin’ Rides, this Corvette is just the latest example of what happens when passion meets precision, and it further solidifies Kindig’s reputation as a visionary in the world of automotive design.
Dave Kindig’s 1960s Corvette restomod is a testament to his skill and creativity. By blending the timeless appeal of a classic Corvette with modern engineering and design, he has once again shown why he’s a leader in the custom car world. The attention to detail, the innovative use of technology, and the respect for the original vehicle all come together to create a masterpiece that will be admired for years to come. Whether on display at car shows or roaring down the highway, this restomod is a perfect example of how the past and present can merge to create something truly extraordinary.
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