In automotive, blending the nostalgic appeal of classic vehicles with modern technology is no easy feat. But Chau Nguyen, founder and CEO of Vintage Modern, Inc., has done just that. Since 2018, Vintage Modern has been revamping the iconic Ford Bronco, offering enthusiasts the timeless beauty of the classic car with the comforts and safety of today’s vehicles. With celebrity fans like Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Hart, Vintage Modern has garnered a significant following. On today’s episode of CBT Now, we sat down with Nguyen to learn more about how his company is revolutionizing the classic car market.
Chau Nguyen developed a passion for cars early in life, owning more than 50 vehicles by the time he reached his 20s. Despite having driven high-end brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini, Nguyen was drawn to the timeless design of the Ford Bronco. He purchased his first Bronco over a decade ago, but quickly realized that its classic charm came with some frustrating modern-day challenges—loose steering, ineffective brakes, and the absence of safety features. It was from this experience that Vintage Modern was born.
Initially starting with restoring old Broncos, Nguyen soon recognized that these vehicles lacked the reliability and driving experience of modern cars. So, he took it further by building a fully modernized Bronco that retained the vehicle’s classic aesthetic. By 2024, Vintage Modern launched a completely re-engineered model with a modern Ford chassis, safety features like airbags and traction control, and an overall driveability that mimics luxury SUVs like the G-Wagon and Range Rover. This modernized classic car allows drivers to experience the thrill of vintage styling with the peace of mind of today’s technology.
One of Vintage Modern’s standout features is the ability to customize each vehicle fully. Customers can choose from 30 paint colors, 12 interior options, and three trim finishes, ensuring that no two vehicles are alike. This high level of personalization is one of the key selling points, as buyers seek a truly unique, standout vehicle.
Moreover, social media has also played a major role in the brand’s success. With over 2 million followers on Instagram, Vintage Modern has gained attention from celebrities and enthusiasts alike. Nguyen credits the brand’s social media presence with helping to build awareness and generate buzz, particularly through viral content featuring the cars in real-world settings.
Looking ahead, Nguyen is exploring expansion opportunities beyond the Bronco, teasing the development of future models that combine vintage-inspired designs with cutting-edge technology. By the end of the year, the company will announce its next model, which will likely continue the trend of creating vehicles that marry nostalgia with modern-day comforts.
"We started restoring these vehicles, but we realized that people didn’t just want a restored classic Bronco—they wanted a fully modernized version that drove like a new car but still had that timeless look. That's when we decided to make the leap and create something that would drive like a modern luxury SUV while still keeping the original Bronco charm." – Chau Nguyen.
