The passion for classic cars never fades, which is why restomodding, the practice of restoring and modifying old vehicles with modern touches of performance and design, continues to be a growing trend among enthusiasts. In 2024, Ford brought a real spectacle to the famous Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), the world's largest automotive customization fair. Among the innovations, the 1969 Ford F-100 restomod, named “Clyde”, stood out not only for its imposing appearance, but also for the perfect combination of retro style and cutting-edge technology.
What is Restomodding and Why is it Trending?
Before we dive into the incredible creation of the Solomon Lunger, it is important to understand what the term means restomod. The concept of restomod is a mix between restore It is modify. In other words, the base of the vehicle, usually a classic, is preserved, while the mechanical and aesthetic components are updated to incorporate the best in modern automotive technology.
This type of customization offers the best of both worlds: the aesthetics and charm of old cars, combined with the performance and reliability of modern cars. In the case of F-100 “Clyde”, Ford Performance Parts and Accessories stands out for providing support for both classic vehicles and the latest models. This union of past and future is one of the great forces behind the success of this approach.
Solomon Lunger: The Master of Truck Modifications
Solomon Lunger is a well-known name in the modified truck world. If you're a fan of custom cars and trucks, you've probably heard of his work. He specializes in restorations and modifications of trucks from Ford F-Series, and his ability to transform classic vehicles into incredibly powerful and stylish machines makes him a legend in the world of modifications.
The construction of Clyde is a masterpiece of their expertise, with a level of customization that goes beyond simple restoration. The idea was not just to update a classic, but to create something totally unique, a true fusion of bold design and cutting-edge engineering.
The F-100 “Clyde”: A Classic in a New Perspective
Based on a Ford F-100 1969, O Clyde is, in fact, a true work of automotive art. Although it may appear at first glance to be a restored F-100 with a touch of sophistication, what you will see is a series of modifications that take the vehicle to a whole new level. Starting with the bodywork, which has been completely custom made entirely of carbon fiber, which not only provides cutting-edge aesthetics but also contributes to significant weight reduction.
The use of carbon fiber is not only an aesthetic choice, but also a practical one. The material is incredibly light and strong, ensuring that the vehicle has superior performance in terms of acceleration, stability and efficiency. The reduced weight improves agility of Clyde, without compromising its strength and resistance.
The Engine: Surprising Strength and Power
The heart of the F-100 Clyde is a high-performance engine that makes any car fan dream. Instead of keeping the traditional engine six cylinders in line or an old-fashioned V-8, Solomon Lunger installed an engine Carnivore Raptor-R 5.2-liter V-8, with a 3.8-liter Whipple supercharger, raising the truck's horsepower to more than 900 horses. To put this into perspective, we are talking about a power equivalent to that of luxury supercars.
With more than 700 pound-feet of torque, O Clyde not only impresses with the number of horses, but also with the brutal acceleration force that allows the truck to reach incredible speeds with ease. All this power is controlled by a manual transmission Tremec six-speed, designed to withstand the heavy load of such a powerful engine.
In addition, the truck has components premium cooling and performance, such as the radiator high flow Wizard and a high-performance fuel system, maintained by a fuel tank from Boyd Welding. The titanium exhaust Vibrant Performance not only improves performance, but also guarantees an unmistakable sound, worthy of a truck of this magnitude.
Suspension and Cornering Performance
To ensure that all the engine power was controlled efficiently and that the truck remained stable when cornering and braking, the Clyde has a set of Baer six-piston brakes at both ends, front and rear. This braking system is one of the best on the market, offering precision and safety even at high speeds. The addition of a E-Stopp electric emergency brake and a brake master cylinder Billet X Master guarantee even more security and performance.
The suspension was not left aside either. A suspension kit air coilover Porterbuilt Stage 2, developed by Fat Fender Garage, is responsible for providing the Clyde a low and aggressive stance. This kit guarantees superior performance in terms of stability and comfort, as well as giving the truck a unique aesthetic.
The Exterior Design: Style and Cutting-Edge Technology
The external design of the Clyde is undoubtedly one of its most striking features. The combination of exposed carbon fiber and custom metal creates a robust, modern and elegant look. Solos MFG custom forged wheels, with 19 inches at the front and 20 inches at the rear, are wrapped in tires Mickey Thompson, offering not only great grip but also a bold and aggressive style.
The exposed carbon fiber finish on the bodywork is a bold choice that will catch the eye of any observer. In addition, the modifications include custom sheet metal from Tin Knockers, with places that do not use carbon fiber. The lamps Dapper LED and the custom side view mirrors Ringbrothers finish the look of Clyde, giving it a touch of sophistication and modernity.
Interior: Comfort and Style in Every Detail
The interior of Clyde is also noteworthy. With a coating fully leather, the finish is impeccable, offering not only comfort but also a sense of luxury and sophistication. Every detail has been thought out to ensure that the driver and passengers experience a sense of pleasure while driving.
Conclusion: The Future of Restomodded Classics
O F-100 restomod 1969 “Clyde” is a perfect example of what can be achieved when tradition and innovation are combined. Using the most modern parts and technologies, Solomon Lunger has managed to create a truck that respects its origins but is fully prepared for the challenges of the future. In addition, the partnership with Ford Performance Parts and Accessories ensures that the Clyde be a model of durability and reliability, with parts that come with a factory warranty.
When looking at the Clyde, it is clear that restomodding is more alive than ever. Ford, with its high-performance parts and modern components, continues to support the customization of classic vehicles, allowing more people to experience the unique experience of driving a classic. revitalized with the best in modern engineering. And with the success of Clyde, there is no doubt that restomodding has a bright future ahead of it.
In a world where the past and the future meet, the F-100 Clyde is the real one example of what happens when a classic gets a new heart.
