Pro Touring Mopar: Your Ultimate Guide to Performance

In the vibrant world of classic car restoration and modification, few names command as much respect and admiration as Mopar. Known for their rugged power and iconic design, Mopar muscle cars have always been objects of desire for enthusiasts. Today, a new trend is emerging among Mopar fanatics, Pro Touring, where old-school cool meets modern performance and handling. Let's delve into the fascinating realm of Pro Touring Mopar builds.

The Pro Touring movement began as a desire to create classic cars that could not only look the part but also perform like modern sports cars. Essentially, it's about taking vintage iron and equipping it with late-model suspension, braking, and engine components, all while maintaining the car's classic aesthetic.

Understanding Pro Touring Mopar

Pro Touring Mopar builds are all about maintaining the timeless appeal of these iconic cars while enhancing their performance and drivability. It's more than just an engine swap; it's about crafting a harmony between old and new.

a black muscle car with yellow lettering on it's hood driving down the road

an orange and black muscle car parked in front of a building

two pictures of the same car in different stages

One of the key aspects of Pro Touring is the focus on ride height. While traditional hot-rodders favored a low, scraping-the-gutter stance, Pro Touring enthusiasts opt for a slightly taller ride height, allowing for better ground clearance and improved articulation over varying road surfaces.

Suspension Upgrades

Suspension upgrades are at the core of any Pro Touring build. Modern multi-link setups, adjustable coilovers, and high-performance bushings replace the original leaf springs and torsion bars. These upgrades not only improve handling but also provide a more comfortable ride, making these classics practical for daily driving.

two pictures of the same car in different colors

a green car parked on the street at night with its lights on and it's hood up

Take the '71 Plymouth Cuda, for instance. Outfitted with a RideTech Total Cost Involved (TCI) suspension system featuring a 4-link rear end, this muscle car handles like a modern sports car. The upgrade allows for a 1.5-inch lift, improving ground clearance and articulation, while still allowing for a lowered stance.

Braking Systems

Modern braking systems are another key upgrade in Pro Touring Mopar builds. Six-piston calipers, cross-drilled rotors, and high-performance pads are now common sights under the wheels of these classics. These upgrades significantly improve stopping power, especially crucial when harnessing the additional horsepower these cars typically see.

A '68 Charger outfitted with Baer brakes is a prime example. The Baer 14-inch rotors and 6-piston calipers, when paired with the car's 575-horsepower Hemi engine, provide the stopping power needed to keep the car safe and confidence-inspiring, even in aggressive driving scenarios.

an old muscle car is parked on the side of the road

two pictures of the same car in different stages of being displayed at an auto show

an old red and white car parked in front of a brick building

an old and new muscle car sitting in the middle of a parking lot next to each other

Engine Upgrades in Pro Touring Mopar

While keeping the vintage styling intact, Pro Touring Mopar builds often feature powerful modern engines. These range from crate motors like those from Mopar's own Hemi line, to built-up big-blocks and even modern LS swaps for those seeking a unique twist.

Consider the '70 Dodge Challenger fitted with a 426ci Hemi. With 575 horsepower and 565 lb-ft of torque, it's not just a nostalgia trip; it's a modern performance powerhouse.

Engine Management Systems

Modern engine management systems, like EFI and aftermarket engine control units (ECUs), are also common in Pro Touring Mopar builds. These systems allow for precise tuning, improved reliability, and the addition of conveniences like push-button start.

A '69 Plymouth Road Runner featuring a late-model 6.4L Hemi (joined by a FAST EZ-EFI 2.0 system) exemplifies this. The combination of modern fuel injection and engine control makes this classic a pleasure to drive, with no carburetor fuss or rusty facets.

In the world of classic car enthusiasm, Pro Touring Mopar builds stand out as a testament to progress. They prove that vintage style and modern performance aren't mutually exclusive. Whether you're a hardcore enthusiast or a casual driver, there's no denying the allure of a Pro Touring Mopar. So, what are you waiting for? Start your own Pro Touring journey today, and let the open road be your canvas.