“They don’t make ‘em like they used to.” It’s an age-old expression often meant to conjure up memories of simpler times when everything was – presumably – better. And no matter how much you want to believe it’s a universal truth, when it comes to automotive safety, it doesn’t hold up at all. Even a beloved 1950s land yacht is no match for its modern mid-size counterpart in a head-on contest, as you can see here.
We don’t love our classic vehicles because they’re less safe than new ones, but rather because of their timeless designs and analog driving experiences that modern vehicles just don’t deliver in the same measure. We love them, in fact, despite their safety shortcomings.
But that doesn’t mean you can’t make your classic at least a little safer without wrecking its essential character, no pun intended. There are a handful of safety upgrades worth considering that may make you or the loved ones riding along with you to the next cruise night just a bit more comfortable with the experience. These are our favorites, in no particular order.
Seat belts
No matter what you’re driving, chances are you’re safer in your seat than falling out of the car if things should go badly. Basic lap belts can usually be fitted inconspicuously without destroying the vehicle’s structural integrity, especially for any car you’re driving on public roads. Most vintage rally and racing organizations require the driver and front passengers be belted in to participate, so it’s neither an unreasonable nor uncommon modification.
Lighting
Modern lighting is amazing by comparison to old stuff. If your vehicle runs a 12-volt electrical system, you should seriously consider upgrading to halogen headlamps at the very least, or even jumping in and going LED. There are DOT-approved round and rectangular lamps to fit the vast array of ‘50s though ‘80s classics in either sealed-beam fitments or H4-style housings with replaceable bulbs. If there’s any chance you’ll be on the road at night, there’s no reason to keep running ancient incandescent lamps.
And let’s not forget the turn signals, running lights and brake lights. Plug-and-play LED replacement bulbs generate much brighter light with less draw on your electrical system. It’s just as important to be seen as it is to see. Brighter location lights might save your precious classic from being rear-ended.
Roll bars
Admittedly, this modification is probably best suited to older roadsters and sports cars. And it’s hardly a new idea, as roll bars actually add to a sporty car’s visual appeal anyway. Just make sure if you’re going to make the effort of install such a setup that you get one that’s as functional as it is attractive. Then do the right thing by installing it properly for safety (heads up – a welder may be involved).
Master power cutoff
This is another common modification that a lot of sports car owners have been doing for decades. The signature big red cutoff switch, usually mounted in a prominent, easy-to-reach location, can mean the difference between your prized ride burning to the ground when the old electrical system fails or it surviving to make it to the tow truck. It can provide additional safety when the car’s not being driven as well, preventing a garage or house fire if power is disconnected when it’s parked (and also preserve your battery between use) and works wonders as a theft deterrent device.
Fire extinguisher
A fire extinguisher isn’t really a modification so much as a smart addition. Not only should you have one in your classic vehicle, it might be wise to keep a compact, automotive-specific extinguisher in every vehicle you own and within easy reach.
Tires
We often overlook tires when it comes to classic vehicles that rarely get driven. Old bias-ply tires might be period-correct, but most vintage tire reproductions are now available in radial construction with more modern compounds, delivering more stable, predictable performance, especially if the weather turns unexpectedly. And don’t forget to check the condition of your tires periodically. Even if you rarely drive your collector vehicle, the tires can age out – especially dry-rotting – long before the tread runs low.
Backup camera
We can already hear the moans and groans over the suggestion that a classic car needs a rearview camera. After all, if you can’t even look over your shoulder and watch behind you, maybe you shouldn’t be driving. Fair enough, but let’s not overlook that a lot of old cars have poor rearward visibility. If you’re running a modern stereo in your car, chances are you can add a license plate-mounted camera and run the signal wire inconspicuously to the stereo unit for a pretty seamless integration. There are also a number of windshield-mounted rearview mirrors available that feature built-in rear camera displays but won’t disrupt your factory-correct interior.
