The term resto-mod has a wide range of possible interpretations. Some enthusiasts believe that anything that isn't restored completely to factory specs is a resto-mod, while others think that only significantly modified cars (like pro-touring builds) should get that designation. ICON 4x4 founder Jonathan Ward created a custom classic truck that pushes this concept to its most extreme limits, so much so that he prefers to avoid the term entirely. "This is not a resto-mod," he explained. "It behaves and acts like a brand new truck because it is a brand new truck." Still, despite its updated underpinnings and enhanced technology, ICON's C Modern Retro Series retains all the timeless style of a classic 1967-72 Chevy C-10.
Images courtesy of Autotopia LA and ICON 4x4
Combining a C-10 with a 2025 Silverado
At first glance, many observers would think this truck is just a nicely preserved C-10 with some faded paint and a fresh set of wheels and tires. However, there's more than meets the eye. The body is from a C-10, but the frame, drivetrain, and electronics are all from a new 2025 Chevy Silverado 4x4.
ICON starts each C Modern Retro build by purchasing a brand new Silverado 1500 W/T 4x4, knowing that the plain-Jane body and interior will immediately be replaced. The frame, suspension, 5.3L EcoTec3 V8, 10-speed automatic transmission, ABS, and electronic brains of the donor truck are all preserved. Even the backup camera is retained.
Next, a classic 1967-72 Chevy C-10 (or C-20) body is dropped onto the 2025 chassis, giving the truck what we'd consider a dramatic visual upgrade. Of course we're biased, but we think most people would agree that the clean, utilitarian styling of the classic Chevy is an improvement to the modern Silverado.
If you've never attempted a project like this before, dropping an old body onto a new frame might sound easy, but the reality is far from it. ICON reportedly spent over two years making this swap as seamless as possible, and more importantly, making the procedure consistent enough that it can be repeated multiple times.
Some elements, such as the retro-styled forged aluminum wheels, had to be custom made specifically for this project.
Ward told Autotopia LA that integrating the modern electronics into the classic Chevy's interior was one of the biggest roadblocks. New machined aluminum panels were built to contain the factory screen, buttons, and gauges, and were then painted to match the rest of the body panels. This maintains all the functionality of the new truck, as well as serviceability using parts from any Chevy dealer.
Other modern touches include a soft-open tailgate, automatic LED lighting in the bed, adjustable cargo tie-downs, and power windows and locks.
The 5.3L EcoTec3 V8 produces 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque while maintaining over 20 MPG on the highway. Full 4x4 functionality is retained, as is a 9700-pound towing capacity and 2,120 pound payload capacity.
The interior features a custom bench seat made from top-of-the-line memory foam with integrated seat heaters. The original-style steering wheel is wrapped in matching leather and installed on a modern, adjustable steering column. Plush carpet, high-end audio components, thermal insulation, and sound deadening ensure this truck feels like a luxury car inside.
ICON offers three packages for the C Modern Retro Series:
- Derelict - Vintage patina for a "sleeper" appearance
- Old School - Complete factory restoration of the C-10 body
- "Omakase" - World-class Japanese sushi restaurants use this term to mean "I'll leave it up to the chef." Similarly, this package lets ICON surprise the customer with Jonathan Ward's choice of all the most tasteful options.
The catch is that ICON is only building five of these trucks: four Derelict or Old School models and one Omakase. They also won't be cheap. The Derelict package starts at $450,000, Old School is $500,000, and Omakase $550,000. ICON will let buyers add options such as a supercharger, lift kit, or lowering kit if they're so inclined, though Ward says he'd discourage those modifications, since he likes the practicality and character of the truck exactly as it is.
Check out the Autotopia LA video above for a closer look at the first ICON C Modern Retro truck, and an interview with Ward about this special vehicle's development and features.
Looking for Chevy C-10 Parts?
Classic Industries is your source for restoration and resto-mod parts for classic GM trucks, including the C-10, K5 Blazer, Suburban, and Silverado. Click the button below to take a look at our complete GM truck parts selection:
