The best used restomods you can buy right now! Plus fast GTs for £45k

IMS failure refers to the failure of the Intermediate Shaft (IMS) bearing in certain Porsche flat-six engines. When it goes wrong, it can lead to serious engine damage, which is why it’s a major used-car concern for some 986 Boxster owners.

The steering wheel adjustment refers to how the wheel position can be changed to fit the driver. The host notes that on this 986 Boxster there’s no height adjustment—only reach—so the driver’s ability to dial in posture is more limited than in many modern cars.

Reach is the steering-wheel adjustment that changes how far the wheel sits from the driver (in/out). The host contrasts it with height adjustment, saying the 986 Boxster offers reach but not height, which affects seating comfort and ergonomics.

Rake is the steering-wheel adjustment that changes the angle of the wheel (tilting it up/down). The host mentions that the car can’t adjust reach and rake, highlighting how older cars can have fewer ways to set an ideal driving position.

The electric seat function is the power-adjust system that moves the seat using motors and wiring. In this segment, the host says the system faults and blows a fuse when they try to fix it, which points to an electrical/mechanical issue in the seat mechanism.

To blow a fuse means the fuse in the car’s electrical system fails to protect wiring from excessive current. When a fuse blows repeatedly after troubleshooting, it often indicates a short circuit or a failing component drawing too much power.

An electric setup here means the seat’s electrical components—wiring, motors, and control parts that make the power adjustment work. The host is describing the cost/availability of replacing that system on a classic Porsche.

Pole Position is a brand of aftermarket racing-style seats. In this segment, the host discusses how expensive Pole Position seats are, how long it took to buy a second one, and even mentions a wider variant (Abe) for fitment and comfort.

“Rear seats” here refers to using aftermarket racing-style seats in the back of a car, which is unusual compared with keeping the rear stock. The host is specifically considering Pole Position seats as rear seating, implying fitment and comfort tradeoffs.

Brexit is the UK’s departure from the European Union, which changed trade rules and can affect import costs for parts. The host links seat pricing increases to being “pre-Brexit” versus “free trade now,” using it as a reason for higher prices.

“Porsche 986” refers to the first-generation Boxster (internal code 986). It’s a popular used platform for restomods and “OEM plus” builds because it’s relatively affordable and has a strong aftermarket.

“Club sports spec” typically means a more performance-focused setup—often firmer suspension, lighter or more supportive seats, and a generally track-oriented feel—compared with a stock or “OEM plus” car. In this context, the speaker is contrasting it with keeping the car comfortable rather than making it “a rock.”

“OEM plus” is a build philosophy where you improve the car using upgrades that feel factory-correct—better parts and drivability, but without turning it into a track-only machine. The goal is usually to keep ride quality and usability closer to stock while adding meaningful upgrades.

“Recaro sidemounts” are mounting brackets that let Recaro seats bolt into a specific car’s seat rails or mounting points. Recaro is a well-known performance seat brand, and sidemounts are a common way to fit aftermarket seats while keeping them positioned correctly.

“Bimmer” is a common nickname for BMW cars. In the conversation, the speaker compares seat-related comfort/fit decisions between their Porsche and their BMW.

The BMW 435i is a modern BMW 4 Series variant known for its straight-six engine and strong performance-to-effort ratio. In this segment, the host focuses on it as a relatively reliable used BMW and ties that to the engine’s reputation.

The N55 is BMW’s turbocharged inline (straight) six-cylinder engine family. Enthusiasts often describe it as “bulletproof” relative to many other modern engines, which is why the host treats the 435i as a reliable used buy.

A water pump is part of the engine’s cooling system and circulates coolant to keep temperatures under control. When it fails, the engine can overheat quickly, which is exactly what the host describes happening to their BMW 435i.

Overheating means the engine temperature rises beyond its normal operating range, usually because coolant isn’t circulating properly or heat rejection has failed. In this case, the host links the overheating to the water pump failure and the resulting breakdown.

“Under the bonnet” refers to the engine bay area in UK English. In this context, the speaker is describing vapor and hissing coming from the engine compartment, suggesting a cooling-system or fluid leak.

A bleed screw is a small valve used to release trapped air from a cooling system. If it’s split or damaged, it can contribute to coolant leaks or air pockets that affect proper coolant circulation.

The coolant reservoir (also called the expansion tank) stores extra coolant as the engine heats up and cools down. It helps maintain the correct coolant level and pressure during normal operation.

The BMW 430i is a 4 Series model (a BMW “4” coupe/gran coupe family) powered by a turbocharged inline-six in many markets. In this segment, it’s mentioned as an example of how sellers format ads to highlight specific upgrades and recent work.

Michelin Pilot Sport is a performance-oriented tire line from Michelin, typically aimed at stronger grip and handling feel. In the ad example, the host is saying the car has a fresh set of these tires, which can be a tangible value signal to buyers.

Michelin CrossClimate 3 is an all-season tire model designed to provide strong grip across a wider range of weather, including wet and colder conditions. The host contrasts it with the Pilot Sport tires to explain why the specific tire choice matters for “all-round” use.

A “winter car” is a vehicle used mainly in cold, wet, or snowy conditions, often with winter tires that provide better grip when temperatures drop. The idea is to keep traction and steering predictable when summer tires would get less effective.

A “summer car” is a car kept primarily for warm-weather driving, typically paired with summer tires that work best in dry, mild conditions. The hosts contrast this with a “winter car” approach to avoid poor traction and handling when roads are cold or wet.

“Resto mods” are restomods: classic cars that are restored and then modified with modern upgrades (often for reliability, brakes, suspension, and drivability). The goal is usually to keep the original look/feel while improving how the car behaves today.

Rear-wheel drive (RWD) means the engine’s power is sent to the rear axle. That changes traction and handling character—especially under hard acceleration or when the car is pushed—compared with front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive.

“Widowmaker” is an enthusiast nickname for a car that’s famously dangerous or intimidating to drive, often due to sudden traction loss or abrupt handling when pushed. Here it’s tied to the rear-wheel-drive era they’re describing.

“930” refers to the Porsche 911 Turbo’s classic era (1970s–1980s), known for its distinctive turbocharged character. In this discussion, they’re contrasting that AWD-era behavior with the restomod being rear-wheel drive.

All-wheel drive (AWD) sends power to both front and rear axles. It typically improves traction and stability in low-grip conditions, and it can change how a car behaves compared with rear-wheel drive.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a major UK motorsport and car culture event held at the Goodwood estate. It’s known for showcasing everything from modern supercars to rare classics and restomods, often with hillclimb runs and displays.

Singer is a specialist Porsche restomod brand known for modernized air-cooled 911 builds with bespoke carbon-fiber bodywork and a focus on driving feel. In this episode, they’re referencing Singer cars shown at an event and Singer’s “flat nose” variant.

“Flat nose” refers to a Singer restomod styling theme that uses a simplified, more traditional front-end shape compared with the standard modernized look. It’s a recognizable visual variant that Singer offers on certain builds.

The Jaguar E-Type Series 1 is the early-production version of Jaguar’s iconic 1960s sports car, known for its long-hood, lightweight feel and classic styling. In this segment, the host is talking about a Series 1 E-Type that’s been restomodded by Eagle while keeping the exterior looking close to stock.

Eagle is referenced here as the restoration/restomod firm behind the Jaguar E-Type Series 1. The key point is that Eagle’s work focuses on updating the parts you can’t see while preserving the original-looking exterior.

A restoration firm is a specialist company that refurbishes older cars back to a high standard—often with a mix of original-style work and modern improvements. In this segment, the host contrasts “restoration” with simply keeping the exterior original, emphasizing updates to hidden components.

An electronic fuel pump is the fuel-delivery unit that pressurizes and moves fuel to the engine. In a restomod context, switching to a modern electronic fuel pump is typically done to improve reliability and consistent fuel pressure compared with older mechanical or aging fuel-supply setups.

Additional cooling fans are extra radiator or engine-cooling fans used to move more air through the cooling system. Restomods often add or upgrade fans to help prevent overheating, especially when the car is used in modern traffic conditions or with updated components.

Halogen headlamps are older-style automotive lights that use a halogen gas inside the bulb to help the filament last longer and produce brighter light than basic incandescent bulbs. They’re common on older cars and typically less efficient than modern LED or HID setups.

“Rest mods” (restomods) are classic cars that have been restored and then modernized with updated mechanicals, electronics, and/or comfort features. The goal is usually to keep the original look while making the car drive and feel more like a modern vehicle.

The Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior is a classic Italian coupe from the early 1970s era, known for its stylish design and enthusiast-focused driving feel. In this segment, the speaker highlights a specific example that’s been completely overhauled by alphaholics, turning it into a modernized restomod while keeping the original character.

Alphaholics is a specialist company known for building and upgrading Alfa Romeo classics, often turning them into high-quality restomods. In this segment, they’re credited with completely overhauling the Alfa Romeo GT 1300 Junior.

“Intake growl” refers to the sound an engine makes as air flows through the intake system, often made more noticeable by upgrades like freer-flowing intakes and performance induction parts. It’s a common enthusiast cue that the car’s breathing has been enhanced.

“Quadrophilia” refers to a specific enthusiast subculture and aesthetic tied to certain classic-car communities. Stickers like this are often used to signal that the car belongs to (or is styled for) that scene.

“Forebanger” is a slang term for a classic Alfa Romeo engine configuration where the engine is mounted in a way that emphasizes the front of the car (often associated with older, compact four-cylinder layouts). In this context, it’s being used to describe the kind of engine these cars originally had.

The “Nord engine” refers to a specific Alfa Romeo four-cylinder engine family associated with the Nord (North) designation used by enthusiasts and tuners. In restomod builds, it’s often chosen because it has a strong performance potential while staying true to the car’s original character.

Forged pistons are pistons made from a forged (high-strength) metal process rather than cast. They’re commonly used in performance builds because they can handle higher stresses and heat better than many stock pistons.

Forged rods (connecting rods) are stronger connecting rods made via forging. In an engine build, they help the bottom end survive higher loads, especially when paired with upgraded pistons and a tuned setup.

“45 millimeter Webbers” refers to 45mm carburetors made by Weber. Carburetors meter fuel and air mechanically, and larger carb sizes can support higher airflow for stronger performance—especially on classic four-cylinders.

“Carbs” is shorthand for carburetors, which mix air and fuel before it enters the engine. In a restomod context, carburetors are often kept or upgraded to preserve the classic throttle feel and sound, even if the rest of the engine is modernized.

The Alfa Romeo GTA is a lightweight, track-oriented version of the classic Alfa Romeo Giulia, built to feel sharp and responsive. The host specifically references “the original GTA,” tying it to the kind of driving feel you get from a classic setup rather than a modern performance car.

A clutch is the driveline component that connects and disconnects the engine from the transmission so you can start moving and change gears. When the host says he “cooked the clutch,” he means it overheated from excessive slipping or heat buildup during the hill climb.

A carburetor engine uses a carburetor to mix fuel and air before it enters the engine cylinders. The host is praising the “throttle response” feel of a carburetor setup, contrasting it with more modern fuel-injection behavior.

A throttle cable is a mechanical linkage that directly opens the throttle body when you press the accelerator pedal. The host highlights it as part of the classic driving feel—more direct and immediate than many modern throttle-by-wire systems.

The Porsche 911 GT3 is a track-focused 911 variant known for its high-revving performance and motorsport-derived setup. The host compares the classic Alfa experience to a modern 911 GT3, suggesting he might prefer the older car’s feel if the goal is occasional fun rather than constant use.

The Jensen Interceptor is a British grand tourer known for its big V8 engine and classic GT styling. In this segment, the host is talking about a specific Jensen Interceptor variant that’s been restored and heavily modified, which changes how it drives and presents compared to a stock car.

“6.2 liter V8 engine” describes an engine with eight cylinders arranged in a V shape, with a total displacement of 6.2 liters. Larger displacement V8s are often associated with strong low- to mid-range torque and a distinctive exhaust note—something the host links to the sound Jensen Interceptor owners make.

A cabriolet is a convertible body style with a power or manual roof that can be lowered to open the cabin to the air. The host highlights that this Jensen Interceptor restomod is a cabriolet, which is a rarer configuration for this model.

“Two plus two” describes a car with four seats where the rear seats are smaller and more cramped than the front. It’s a common way to describe grand tourers and some muscle/GT cars that can carry passengers occasionally but aren’t true full-size rear-seat cars.

Top Gear is a long-running British automotive TV show that features car reviews, challenges, and celebrity segments. Mentioning that the car appeared on Top Gear signals it has some mainstream visibility and likely a notable backstory.

The Grand Tour is a British automotive TV series known for car reviews and big-budget challenges. The hosts’ mention suggests the featured restomod has been showcased to a wide audience.

A “bespoke stainless steel exhaust system” is a custom-made exhaust, built from stainless steel to resist corrosion. Custom exhausts are often used on restomods to improve sound, fitment, and sometimes exhaust flow compared with the original setup.

A limited-slip differential (LSD) is a gearbox component that helps manage wheel spin when a car turns or accelerates. Instead of sending all the torque to the wheel with least grip, it biases power toward the wheel with more traction, improving cornering and acceleration.

“Revised heating and air conditioning” refers to updated climate-control hardware and/or controls installed during the restomod process. The goal is usually to make older cars feel more usable day-to-day with modern comfort and reliability.

AP Racing is a performance brake brand known for high-end calipers used on track-focused and enthusiast cars. In this segment, it’s mentioned as part of the restomod’s brake upgrade package.

In automotive terms, the chassis is the car’s structural foundation that supports the suspension, drivetrain, and body. Here, the hosts argue that the chassis can handle high braking forces, which affects how well an “overbraked” car can slow down safely and consistently.

David Brown Automotive is a British company known for building restomods—modernized classic cars—often using modern drivetrains. In this segment, they’re referenced as the maker of an electric-converted Mini.

An electric resto mod is a restomod (a classic car restored and modernized) that’s been converted to run on an electric powertrain instead of its original engine. The goal is usually to keep the classic look/feel while improving drivability, emissions, and sometimes reliability.

The Fiat 500 is a small Italian city car that became a global icon, especially in its classic form. Here it’s used as a reference point for the Fiat Jolly’s “Fiat 500 without…” description.

The Volkswagen ID 3 is an all-electric hatchback built around a battery-electric powertrain, aimed at everyday city driving. In this segment, it’s mentioned as a “city runabout” alternative to a racing driver’s usual mindset—highlighting how EVs can be used for normal commuting.

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is an electric version of the classic “Bus” concept, combining a retro-inspired design with modern electric power. In the podcast, it’s mentioned in the context of other electric Volkswagens, implying it stands out for its appeal and practicality. It’s discussed because it’s a family-friendly EV concept that aims to feel like a modern interpretation of a beloved vehicle type.

Andy Wallace is a well-known British racing driver who has competed in multiple top series, including endurance racing. Here, he’s referenced as an example of a racing driver using a road car as a daily rather than treating every car like a race machine.

An infotainment system is the car’s in-dash electronics that combine functions like navigation, media, and phone connectivity. In this segment, the host criticizes it as looking “aftermarket,” implying the interface or hardware doesn’t match the car’s original style.

The Mini Cooper S is a performance-oriented trim of the Mini hatchback, typically tuned for sharper driving and more power than the base Cooper. The host calls an original Cooper S a “dream car,” emphasizing its enthusiast appeal compared with a generic “regular” Mini.

Twisted is the company doing the restomod-style work in this segment, taking a Land Rover Defender and modifying it into a more customized “Twisted Defender.” The hosts use “Twisted” as the builder/brand behind the conversion rather than as a generic description.

“End of production” refers to when a model stops being manufactured, which affects availability and pricing for new cars and can drive demand for remaining stock or modified builds. The hosts connect it to when Land Rover stopped producing the Defender and how Twisted acquired cars afterward.

“2.2 TDci” refers to a 2.2-liter turbo-diesel engine used in some Land Rover Defenders, with “TD” indicating turbo-diesel and “ci” commonly used to denote common-rail fuel injection. The hosts emphasize it’s not a big V8 swap—so the build stays relatively close to a diesel Defender character.

Spotlights are auxiliary driving lights mounted to improve illumination beyond the standard headlights, commonly used on off-road vehicles. The hosts mention them as part of the Defender’s “menacing” look and utility.

Brake calipers are the clamping components that squeeze brake pads against the rotors to slow the vehicle. The hosts call out “massive calipers,” implying a big brake setup—possibly overkill for the stated power—meant to improve stopping performance and durability.

A restomod is a modified classic car that keeps the original model’s identity but updates key parts—often the engine, suspension, brakes, and interior—to feel more modern and usable. The hosts debate whether this particular build “stretches the term” because it was modified almost immediately after being bought new.

The Ineos Grenadier is a modern, off-road-focused SUV built with a traditional, rugged approach—often compared directly to the Land Rover Defender. In this segment it’s used as a reference point for buyers who don’t want a new Defender but are looking for a similar style of vehicle.

The Range Rover is a luxury SUV known for comfort, off-road ability, and a strong focus on refinement. The podcast mentions “resto mods,” which are modified restorations—bringing an older Range Rover back while updating parts for better drivability. It’s discussed because these cars can be tailored to suit modern tastes while keeping the original character.

The Ford Escort Mk2 is a classic hot-hatch era compact that became famous in rallying and touring-car racing. In this segment, it’s being described as a heavily modified restomod-style build, with lots of front-end lighting and a focus on front-end grip and cornering.

Cornering is how a car maintains grip and balance while turning, which depends on tires, suspension geometry, and weight distribution. In the transcript, the speaker links adding front weight to “pin that in for cornering,” meaning improved front-end stability during turns.

“Twin cam” refers to a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) engine layout, where two camshafts control the valves. This often supports better breathing at higher engine speeds compared with simpler single-cam designs, which is why it’s a common enthusiast label for performance engines.

Independent throttle bodies (often shortened to ITBs) mean each cylinder has its own throttle valve. That can improve airflow control and throttle response compared with a single throttle body feeding all cylinders.

ITBs is the common abbreviation for independent throttle bodies. Enthusiasts like them because they can sharpen response and help engines breathe more freely, especially at higher revs.

The Alpine A 110 is a lightweight French sports car famous for rallying and handling. Here it’s used as a reference point for how “war-torn” or purposeful the interior can look in period rally cars.

“Group 4” refers to a historical FIA racing category for production-based cars (a homologation class). It’s a way of describing the car’s original rally/racing specification era.

“Tarmac spec” means the car is set up for paved-road racing rather than loose surfaces like gravel. That typically affects suspension tuning, tire choice, and how the car’s aero and cooling are configured for sustained grip on asphalt.

A roll cage is a reinforced metal frame installed inside the cabin to protect occupants in a crash. In motorsport, it also helps stiffen the chassis so the car can handle more precisely under cornering loads.

A carburettor is a device that mixes fuel and air for an engine using engine vacuum and fuel metering. Older carbureted setups can be sensitive to temperature and altitude, which is why the speaker talks about needing to “play with the carbs” when conditions change.

Direct injection is a fuel system where fuel is sprayed directly into the combustion chamber (or very close to it) instead of into the intake. It generally improves throttle response and can help efficiency and emissions compared with older carburetors or port injection.

Camber is the inward or outward tilt of a wheel relative to vertical. More negative camber can improve grip in corners by keeping the tire better aligned with the road as the car leans, which is why the speaker connects it to modern “track-like” stance on road cars.