Blending nostalgia with innovation is no easy task, but Chau Nguyen, the founder and CEO of Vintage Modern, Inc., has mastered just that.
Since 2018, Vintage Modern has transformed the iconic Ford Bronco by merging its classic charm with today’s vehicles’ advanced technology and safety features. The company has captured the attention of both car enthusiasts and celebrities, including Mark Wahlberg and Kevin Hart, while making its mark in the luxury automotive space.
On today’s episode of The Small Business Show, we dive deep into Nguyen’s passion for cars, which began at an early age. By his twenties, he had owned more than 50 vehicles, including high-end brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini. However, the timeless design of the Ford Bronco truly captivated him. After purchasing his first Bronco over a decade ago, he quickly encountered the challenges of driving a classic vehicle in modern times—issues like loose steering, outdated brakes, and a lack of safety features. From this frustration, Vintage Modern was born.
Initially focused on restoring old Broncos, Nguyen soon realized that these classic vehicles lacked the reliability and modern driving experience consumers expect today. Not one to settle for the status quo, he set out to build a thoroughly modernized version of the Bronco that maintained the iconic aesthetic while incorporating the performance, safety, and technology of today’s vehicles.
In 2024, Vintage Modern unveiled a completely re-engineered Bronco with a modern Ford chassis, airbags, traction control, and a drive experience on par with luxury SUVs like the G-Wagon and Range Rover. This marriage of vintage style and contemporary technology offers drivers the thrill of owning a classic with the peace of mind that comes with modern-day safety and reliability.
What sets Vintage Modern apart from other companies is its dedication to customization. With more than 30 paint colors, 12 interior options, and three trim finishes, customers can create a one-of-a-kind vehicle that reflects their personal style. This attention to detail has made Vintage Modern a top choice for buyers seeking a truly unique car.
In addition, social media has played a pivotal role in Vintage Modern’s success. With over 2 million followers on Instagram, the brand has gained significant traction, drawing attention from celebrities and car enthusiasts alike. Nguyen credits the brand’s social media presence for generating buzz and building awareness, especially through viral content showcasing the cars in real-world settings.
Looking ahead, Nguyen is already planning for the future of Vintage Modern. The company is exploring new opportunities beyond the Bronco, with plans to develop additional models that continue the trend of combining vintage-inspired designs with cutting-edge technology. By the end of the year, Vintage Modern is expected to announce its next model, promising to bring more nostalgia-infused innovation to the market.
"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." – Chau Nguyen
