Founded in 1976, Classic Industries Corporation manufactures restoration parts for American classic cars. Their extensive product range – covering everything from engine components and body panels to interior products and electrical components, helps enthusiasts restore their vehicles to their original condition. The first model the company worked with was the Chevrolet Camaro, followed by Firebird and Nove. Today, according to President Mark Vogt, they supply parts for more than 120 different car models, growing into one of the leading companies in the classic car industry.

Restoring parts using 100 sample cars

classic cars as reference vehicles across its seven warehouses in California, enabling them to reproduce high precision restoration parts. In the world of classic car restoration, original parts are often no longer available to use as samples. By owning 100 of the original vehicles, the company has solved this issue. These sample cars are invaluable not only for studying original components but also for testing the newly manufactured restoration parts. By fitting the parts onto actual vehicles and checking their performance, the company can guarantee high product reliability. Their commitment to accuracy and authenticity is at the core of their manufacturing philosophy.

Current trends in classic cars

We asked Mr. Vogt, who has worked for the company for over 35 years, about the current trends in the classic car market. He explained, “The majority of our sales now comes from parts for pickup trucks*.” Their popularity, he noted, stems from practicality; pickup trucks can carry large loads and are often passed down from parents to children, creating ongoing demand for repair parts. He also believes nostalgia plays a significant role. Many people purchase the same pickup truck models they grew up with or admired when they were younger.

Looking ahead

Looking to the future, Mr. Vogt said the company aims to expand production lines and add new vehicle models to meet customers’ needs. They continuously monitor customer feedback and track trends in the classic car market. Participating in trade fairs like this is also an important part of their market research.

*Pickup truck
A vehicle with a passenger compartment at the front and a cargo bed at the rear for carrying goods.

Article by Ikumi Shinomiya