As interest has grown in restoring and modernising vehicles from the 1980s to early 2010s, custom fabrication has become increasingly important. Many of these cars - now classed as modern classics - face challenges like discontinued parts, poor reliability, and outdated performance. Bespoke metalwork and handmade components help bridge the gap between originality and modern usability, where original parts and performance fall short.

What We Do

At Speedshop44, we craft handmade components to enable precise integration of modern technology, bespoke performance upgrades, and restoration of increasingly rare models; whether you’re reviving a forgotten hot hatch, modifying a 90s sports saloon, or building a concours-level restomod:

Body panels and structural repairs

We replace rust-damaged or accident-affected areas with exacting accuracy, maintaining or subtly enhancing the vehicle’s original lines while improving strength. We can maintain original lines in the case of pure restoration, or allow for custom flared arches or widened bodywork in the case of a restomod:

• Hand-formed sills, rear wings, wheel arches, inner arches, body panels, battery trays and bulkheads, shaped using traditional tooling such as the English wheel, louvre fly press, and bead roller.

• Bonnet brackets and bumper brackets, for vehicles where aftermarket support has disappeared, or poor-quality panels no longer fit correctly.

Engine Swap and Gearbox Mounting Solutions

We enable modern classics to benefit from reliable, powerful modern drivetrains without compromising safety or originality:

• Custom engine mounts and transmission brackets for fitting modern engines into 80s - early 2010s chassis.

• Fabricated gearbox tunnels and modified bulkheads to clear newer transmissions like the ZF 6-speed or T56.

Interior and Dashboard Fabrication

We update interiors with modern features to enhance functionality, aesthetics and comfort, while maintaining a period-correct look:

• Handmade dash inserts, switch panels, gauge pods, or centre consoles to integrate modern infotainment, climate control, or digital displays.

• Custom seat brackets to install bucket seats or upgrade comfort without altering the cabin permanently.

• Handmade pedal boxes or steering column supports for left-to-right hand-drive conversions.

Exhaust and Induction Systems

For optimal performance and sound, we enhance airflow and power delivery in a bespoke package suited to your vehicle’s unique geometry, while adhering to UK emissions and MOT standards:

• Bespoke stainless steel exhaust manifolds and systems, often fully TIG welded for durability and performance.

• Handmade turbo manifolds and downpipes for forced-induction builds.

• Mandrel-bent exhaust systems and custom manifolds for turbo conversions or performance upgrades.

• Fabricated intake plenums, charge pipes, and intercooler mounts tailored to engine bay layout.

Suspension, Chassis and Braking Adaptations

As well as enhancing handling and ride quality with the fitment of modern suspension technology; we can improve braking efficiency and safety - ideal for modern classics with power upgrades adapted for fast-road or track use.

• Fabricated rear beam reinforcements, strut top mounts, and subframe strengthening plates for cars prone to flex or cracking.

• Custom shock towers or control arm brackets for coilover or air ride conversions.

• Handmade brake calliper brackets to install big brake kits on classic hubs (e.g. 4-pot Brembos on an 80s 3-Series). Custom bias valves, brake lines, and reservoir mounts to suit track-specification or restomod applications.

Fuel Systems, Mountings and Cooling System Upgrades

We ensure reliable fuel delivery and cooling under demanding conditions or performance use, while complying with UK safety regulations:

• Custom-built aluminium fuel tanks with internal swirl pots or integrated in-tank fuel pumps, ideal for EFI conversions or track builds.

• Fabricated fuel line brackets and battery trays for clean under-bonnet presentation.

• Custom radiator brackets, header tanks, and pipework to manage modern engine swaps or cooling needs.

Bespoke Styling and Trim

We ensure reliable fuel delivery and cooling under demanding conditions or performance use, while complying with UK safety regulations:

• We can recreate damaged or missing aesthetics to restore your vehicle’s original look, or reimagine the vehicle with subtle upgrades in a factory-style finish.

• Custom splitters, spoilers, vented bonnets, or wide-arch kits, particularly for builds inspired by touring car or rally heritage.

• Handmade badging, fog light surrounds, and grilles to replace parts worn or no longer available with period-accurate reproductions.

• CNC-machined or hand-formed aluminium grilles, bumpers, and trim pieces to match the original or create a bespoke look.

Get in Touch

Have a project in mind? Contact us today. We’ll be happy to walk you through the options and show you what’s possible.

Enquire

Custom Fabrication

Handcrafted precision, bringing modern classics back to life and unlocking today’s performance potential.