Taking an old car and making it new again can be a daunting task, but one that Detroit Speed and its co-founder Kyle Tucker loves tackling. Started in 2001, the company creates and manufactures fully engineered suspension systems and other products for Camaros, Chevelles, Firebirds, GTOs, Novas and other GM intermediaries. In addition to the product line, Detroit Speed also has a complete fabrication facility where they tackle complete fabrication projects. One of the biggest trends that Tucker sees in the industry is a desire to make old cars ride, handle and stop as well as (if not better than) their contemporary counter parts.

"Modern technology combined with classic styling makes for an exciting vehicle," said Tucker. "With power train, brake and tire technology being what it is today, it is getting easier and easier for everyone to make this a realistic goal."

The technology behind a product requires countless hours of prep work before it can be made available to the public. Detroit Speed's newly developed A-Body line, for example, took roughly 18 months from inception to completion. The process begins by acquiring test cars that are disassembled, studied and measured before hand-built prototypes are created by the team and installed on the vehicles themselves. The parts are put through a battery of tests by Detroit Speed to ensure that they adequately meet all performance and durability standards. Once this process is completed the part is sent to production and made available to customers.

"The development of a product line can be a long process, but in the end our customers are simply getting a better product," said Tucker. "We put in the extra time because we are constantly striving to meet our performance goals and deliver a product that proudly displays our name."

One of Tucker's most rewarding builds has been a 1970 Camaro test car. Outfitted in BFGoodrich® g-Force T/A® KDW tires, the vehicle has won the autocross portion of Hot Rod's Ultimate Street Car Challenge, eight straight Goodguys autocross events and taken home the "King of the Hill" award (awarded to the vehicle with the highest compilation of scores from the Run Through the Hills, autocross, 1/8 mile drag strip and overall fit and finish) at Run Through the Hills in Pigeon Forge, TN.

"The proper tire on a vehicle can make all the difference, especially when dealing with older vehicles," said Tucker. "We use BFGoodrich exclusively because there is a tire for every need readily available and they really complement our suspension systems."

Tucker's advice to someone who wants to upgrade the performance of their vehicle is to first focus on the areas where they can achieve the greatest impact. Since the engines in older vehicles perform well, he recommends upgrading the suspension system in addition to the wheels, tires and brakes.

"The difference in drivability these modifications can make is dramatic to say the least," said Tucker. "There are huge gains realized in terms of performance and safety by updating the suspension system in an older vehicle."

In addition to making upgrades on a vehicle, Tucker also recommends that drivers remember the basics. Simple routine maintenance including fresh fluids and the correct tire pressure can make a substantial difference when it comes to vehicle performance.

For more information about the products offered at Detroit Speed, visit www.detroitspeed.com.