There’s nothing better than a fresh new pair of wheels – that is, apart from the charm and allure of a classic vintage car. While the high spec, hi-tech appeal of the latest Ferrari or Mercedes Benz might tempt you to make an extravagant purchase a few times a year, there’s no reason that beautiful vintage Porsche you’ve got sitting in your garage should take a backseat – and, with a few simple tweaks and upgrades, you can have the best of both worlds, all rolled into one.
It’s not just about the latest accessories, and these days, advanced features such as automatic braking and blind spot monitoring make modern cars a safer drive, too – and thankfully, there are several simple-to-install aftermarket devices out there that can be incorporated.
But let’s face it, the thought of ramping up the luxury a little more is always appealing – and adding some of the latest bells and whistles to an older ride is an easy way to bring it firmly into the 21st century without compromising on any of its classic charm. So, if you’re keen to inject some modern functionality, an extra level of safety – and of course, some added comfort into a beloved classic, then these five easy upgrade ideas will do the trick in no time.
Before we dive in, remember – never skimp on the essentials. While luxurious additions to an older car may make for a more enjoyable ride, it’s important to keep a wheel jack, spare tyre and one of the best car battery chargers on hand, just in case.
Seat heaters and massagers
Let’s start with the most lavish inclusion on the list – seat heaters and massagers. Those older car seats just don’t measure up when it comes to comfort, but it couldn’t be easier to upgrade them.
Although built-in heated seat pads were originally launched as a feature back in 1966 with the swanky Cadillac Deville, they’ve come a long way since then, and these days, cosy seats come with front-seat cooling machines – and that all important massaging capability to give you a more relaxing ride than ever.
Heated car seat cushions are an easy solution for older cars without the functionality built-in, and come complete with the same cooling and massage options, so there’s no need to miss out on luxury.
Heads-up displays
These days, the auto industry is ripe for a video projection upgrade, and a heads-up display could seriously elevate your ride to lofty new heights. Displaying navigation on the windscreen by projecting a transparent image, this is the ultimate luxury upgrade and has already been integrated into some of the best high-end car models by the likes of Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Land Rover.
Showing your speed and mileage, as well as engine warnings, a HUD is the must-have modern accessory for your car, and is available for around £250.
Parking sensors
Remember the days before parking sensors? Nope, neither do we – but if you’re looking to purchase a vintage car then you might find yourself getting reacquainted with that distant memory sooner than you thought.
While using your judgement to squeeze into a tiny parking space isn’t beyond the realms of possibility, it does feel like a bi of a step back – and, if you want to keep your new wheels in the same pristine condition, it might cause some worry, too.
Using soundwaves to detect surrounding objects and alert you as you near them with a series of beeps, parking sensors have fast become indispensable – and aftermarket options are easy to purchase and install. Original manufacturers parts with multiple sensors are available for around £250.
Bluetooth Stereo
In today’s constantly connected world, a Bluetooth stereo is a modern essential for any stint behind the wheel, allowing you to listen to your favourite tunes as you drive, direct from your mobile phone.
Bluetooth stereos sync wirelessly to your phone, and offers the added functionality of letting you answer calls over your car’s speakers – all hands free, of course.
With a few simple tweaks, your vintage classic can be brought bang up to date without compromising on any of the charm that drew you to it in the first place. So why not make it your next lockdown project and get started today?
