Joe Martin, the mastermind behind Iron Resurrection and Martin Brothers Customs, is known for transforming rusty relics into automotive works of art. Recently, Joe and his talented crew restored a vintage convertible, blending modern upgrades with classic appeal—a signature approach for their custom builds.
Source: Instagram
This particular project highlighted Joe's attention to detail, craftsmanship, and his respect for vintage cars, while ensuring they perform like modern vehicles. The convertible was meticulously restored with a balance of modern performance enhancements and the preservation of its original charm, typical of the Martin Brothers’ high-end restorations.
Joe Martin's process begins with an in-depth collaboration with the car owner. In this case, the client wanted the convertible to remain true to its roots while incorporating performance upgrades to elevate its driving experience. This philosophy guides most of the restorations on Iron Resurrection, where preserving the essence of a car’s design is paramount, but functionality and modernity aren’t sacrificed. Joe’s restorations are often powered by contemporary engines, high-performance suspensions, and cutting-edge electronics.
The convertible was fitted with a modern V8 engine, known for its reliability and power, which instantly brought the car’s performance up to current standards. The decision to upgrade the engine was strategic, offering both durability and fuel efficiency while delivering a significant horsepower boost. To maintain aesthetic consistency, the engine was detailed to complement the vintage vibe, blending seamlessly with the classic elements of the car. These upgrades are not only about speed and performance but also reliability—ensuring that this vintage beauty can be driven regularly without the challenges that come with old-school mechanics.
Source: Instagram
A major focus of this restoration was the interior. Martin Brothers Customs is known for its attention to interior craftsmanship. Joe Martin’s team overhauled the original interior, giving it a luxurious, custom look. Modern leather seats, sourced from top-tier suppliers, were hand-stitched to fit the car’s unique style. The dashboard was retrofitted with digital gauges that mimic the original design, preserving the car’s nostalgic charm but adding the convenience of modern technology. Additional touches included custom door panels, wood grain accents, and a state-of-the-art sound system, making the car both a pleasure to drive and a visual masterpiece.
On the exterior, Joe’s team managed to respect the convertible's original lines while adding custom touches that brought the car into the 21st century. The body was meticulously sanded, reshaped, and painted. The Martin Brothers are renowned for their custom paint jobs, and this car was no exception. The result was a vibrant, glossy finish that highlighted the vehicle’s curves and made it stand out without overwhelming its vintage identity. This blend of traditional aesthetics with modern materials is what sets Joe’s work apart from standard restorations. His cars are not just restored—they are reimagined for a new era.
Underneath, the convertible received a modern suspension system, significantly improving its handling and ride quality. The suspension was custom-fitted to accommodate the new engine’s power while maintaining smooth performance, whether on a racetrack or cruising down the highway. This combination of old and new is where Joe Martin shines, as he respects the heritage of the car while making sure it performs better than ever before.
In terms of cost, a project like this doesn't come cheap. The level of customization, from the modern engine swap to the handcrafted interior and custom paint job, likely placed this build in the $150,000-$300,000 range. The pricing for a Martin Brothers restoration depends on the level of modifications, rarity of parts, and labor hours, with more elaborate builds sometimes exceeding this estimate.
Overall, this vintage convertible’s restoration by Joe Martin and his team embodies the ethos of Iron Resurrection: blending old-school charm with contemporary upgrades to create something truly exceptional. The result is a car that not only looks stunning but also delivers modern-day reliability and performance. Joe Martin continues to set the standard for custom car restorations, transforming classic cars into timeless pieces of art on wheels.
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