Modified Car
What is a Modified Car?
A modified car refers to any cosmetic, technical, handling or audio work that has been carried out after a car leaves a factory. This work is commonly known in the industry as ‘aftermarket’ modifications. There are varying degrees of modifications; some people may just settle with buying a set of alloy wheels which are different to the ones given to it at the time of manufacturing and other people will completely rebuild a car from the ground up. The latter may include a full engine upgrade, a new suspension system, various in-car-entertainment screens, speakers, stereo equipment and controls, a new paint job and various other cosmetics like new mirrors, wheels, grilles, lights and interior upholstery.
Owners usually modify their car so as to distinguish it from the thousands of other models on the road and demonstrate their artistic taste. A lot of modified car owners also like to improve the performance of their cars as well as the handling. There is a lot of kudos surrounding a modified car which has the best break horse power for its particular model of car. Many modified car owners also race their cars at various race tracks and so performance and handling is paramount.
There are various tuning houses across the world that specialise in carrying out modifications however some owners choose to go to parts suppliers and do the work themselves in their own garage.
Some aftermarket tuning houses offer a ‘ready to drive away’ modified car which is effectively their vision and is comprised of all the accessories and tuning products they supply. Most aftermarket tuning houses also offer consultations with owners where the owners get to put forward their own vision and the tuning houses only fits the car with products and parts which are to the owners taste.
A ‘modified car’ is a term often used in the UK. Other countries often refer to modified cars as tuned or custom cars however custom cars are usually older models that have been revived.
Modifying cars is a popular pastime and there are tens of thousands of people that modify their cars across the globe. It can be an extremely expensive hobby as there are so many parts and products you can buy for this purpose. There are several enthusiasts websites dedicated to modified cars as well as car clubs and events where like-minded people can socialise, share skills and show off their modifying talent.
