If you’re longing for the best of both worlds of retro charm and modern practicality, then a converted classic car is the way to go.
But what if you don’t already have a classic car to convert?
If you know what you want, Retroelectric can help you source the perfect car, but if you’re undecided – read on for our top tips on what to look out for.
Choosing the right classic for you
Would you like a sleek and sporty number, or are you looking for a bit of rugged off-road fun? Before you purchase a classic for your conversion, think about:
How often you intend to drive it
How far you want to travel (the car will need to have space for the battery pack you'll need)
Do you want an everyday run-about or a cruiser for the weekend?
Do you want something that’s ready to go, or are you looking for a full-on restoration project along with the conversion?
There’s no right or wrong answer – but ask yourself these questions before shelling out and potentially making a costly mistake.
Don’t be fooled by a shiny exterior
Once you’ve decided what your perfect classic is, it’s time to start searching! Even if the car looks great at first glance, here are some things to bear in mind so you don’t end up with any nasty surprises:
Service and repair history: These can be a bit sketchy with an old classic that may have had numerous owners. A comprehensive service history will give you some assurance that the car has been looked after. Pictures and notes of any repairs are a huge bonus and can add value to the car too.
Insurance history: If the car has been written off in the past this can cause you your own insurance or resale problems in the future. It costs a little more to find out the full history of a car’s insurance, but it could save you big time in the future. Sites like https://fullcarchecks.co.uk make this easy to do.
The condition of the bodywork and panels: In case there have been any historical knocks, look closely to ensure the panels align and gaps in bodywork are even, as this can be costly to fix – even if you’ve already budgeted for a restoration.
Check for rust: A bit of surface rust won’t necessarily be a problem and can be sanded down and repainted. Penetrating rust is a bigger deal - in the most severe cases, it can affect the integrity of the car and will need full metal replacement.
Check the suspension: Test drive the car and see if you notice any pulling, bouncing on bumps and dips, steering wheel pulling to one side, or the front of the car dipping when you brake. All of these are signs there could be an issue with the suspension.
Check the brakes: Another one to look out for on your test drive. If you experience any grinding, brake pulling, or a soft brake pedal – then you’ll probably need to get these fixed as part of the conversion process.
If you use us for your conversion, don’t worry—we’ll fully inspect the car too. However, knowing what needs to be done before it enters our workshop will help you avoid any unexpected costs.
What are the best classic cars to convert to electric?
If you’re undecided on what kind of classic you want to go for, here’s a lowdown on three of our favourite classics to convert:
An undeniably stunning classic, this is one for those who love a bit of luxury. The electric motor fits in easily where the combustion engine once was.
Plus, you get a big increase in power and torque, which makes it even more fun to drive than before.
Spec:
160 kW motor options
46 kWh battery pack
Battery Management System
7kW on board charger and DC fast charging
Type 2 charge port behind the fuel cap
This is at the cheaper end of the classics, but it has heaps of character.
It's one of the simplest classics to upgrade and convert – so there won’t be such a hit on your wallet. Plus, this one’s perfect for an everyday driver.
Spec:
90 kW rated AC motor
26 kWh battery pack
Latest generation Battery Management System
3.3 kW on board charger
Type 2 charge port
We Brits love a good old Landy – the running costs? Not so much. . .
The Defender is a brilliant one to convert if you want a better driving experience, lower running costs, and bags of fun on the road or on more adventurous terrain.
Spec:
150 kW motor options
46 / 71 / 85 kWh battery pack
Battery Management System
6.6 kW onboard charger and DC fast charging
Type 2 charge port
Converting your classic with Retroelectric
Once you’ve chosen your perfect classic, contact us so we can discuss the specs of your conversion. In the meantime, if you have any questions, check out our FAQs here.
If you’d like some restoration work done at the same time, that’s no problem – find out more about our restoration services here.
At Retroelectric we take what’s truly great about classic cars and improve upon the parts that aren’t. We take iconic cars of the 1960s and 1970s and refit them with clean electric engines, luxurious interiors and choice upgrades.
Give us a call or email us to discuss your own classic car: 01732 798305
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