John Mata Jr.
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July 10, 2023
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F100 Builders
We’ve all daydreamed about how cool it would be to combine the modern comfort, reliability, and performance of a new 1979 Ford F150 truck with the timeless, nostalgic look of a true vintage pickup. While this idea isn’t exactly groundbreaking on its own, successfully executing it is the epitome of today’s standard of a customized classic.
What he envisioned is marrying the façade of a classic Ford pickup with the prowess of a Raptor…”
In the last few years, an influx of builders have acted on this same exact dream and fabricated some incredible builds—but nothing quite like what we’ve seen from Sweet Brothers Restomods out of Upton, Wyoming.
Dan Hart of Sweet Brothers has championed the concept of combining old and new, but his approach that has made all the difference in creating a style of truck is radically different from the rest. While it is common practice to swap a newer motor into an older truck or to incorporate some other later-model parts into a classic build, Dan has gone a few steps further while building the trucks he always dreamed of.
What he envisioned is marrying the façade of a classic Ford pickup with the prowess of a Raptor, which is an amazing pairing. Simply swapping in a Raptor powerplant under the hood would leave the new/old mixture somewhere along the lines of an 80/20 figure. Dan was looking to level the playing field to at least half and half.
The truck you see here is equal parts 1979 Ford F150 pickup and 2012 Raptor, although it may look more like an updated classic at first glance. Granted, most of the Raptor components are underneath truck or inside of the cab. Either way, Dan has figured out a way to accomplish what he set out to do only with better results than he probably initially imagined possible.
The frame is 100% Raptor (including the wheels) with the only exception is that it has been lengthened to 151 inches to properly fit underneath the ’79 crew cab body. The 6.2L engine and 6-speed transmission are both stock 2012 Raptor equipment—exactly how Ford offered them to the consumer. Before long, Dan had accomplished the first feat on his agenda by fusing a rolling chassis together, but there was much more work to do to make the transformation complete.
The next order of business was to spend some time on the classic side of the fence with the ’79’s exterior. Cool Customs Body and Paint in Torrington, Wyoming, worked out the necessary kinks from the body before the Sweet Brothers team stepped in to incorporate more factory Raptor touches into the truck’s surface. A keyless entry pad has been installed into the driver door, as has a factory-equipped rear back-up camera into the tailgate.
Raptor fender flares blend in surprisingly well with Ford’s 44-year-old design, but Dan passed on even trying to make Raptor power side mirrors make any sense—good call there. Once the blue and white PPG paint was applied, it’s tough to imagine a cooler OEM-style landscape for a beefy truck like this.
As amazing as the truck was starting to take shape, the real kicker of this particular build is the incorporation of the full Raptor interior inside of the cab. The term “full” is not used lightly here as not only have the seats have been included into this project, but everything from the dash, gauges, center console, flooring, door panels, headliner, and even the door latches that trigger the cab lights.
Even that annoying dinging sound reminding you to put your seatbelt on still functions, which is actually pretty cool to experience inside of a truck of this vintage. Road noise usually associated with older trucks has been neutralized here thanks to the Sweet Brothers’ team tireless effort to trick the driver’s brain into thinking they are driving a late-model pickup.
While this is not the first Raptor conversion that Dan Hart and Sweet Brothers’ Restomods have completed (they have also have another ’79 F-150 and a killer ’79 Ford Bronco that has graced our cover before), it sure won’t be their last. The guys have enjoyed the experience building these things while receiving the trophies and accolades that have followed the debut of each of their creations but will eventually offer them up for purchase with even more on the way!
Now, the price tags attached to them will be substantial, but brand new Raptors aren’t exactly cheap to begin with. What would you rather have—a new truck all around, or a totally finished classic Ford pickup or SUV with the inner workings and spirit of a Raptor at the core of the truck? For some, this will be tough decision to weigh out, but for others there will be zero hesitation to choose the latter.
With the popularity of these builds by Sweet Brothers Restomods spiking dramatically, it’s a sure bet that demand for some type of waiting list for potential future orders may begin to form. The guys may even look to bring these trucks to the auction block as they are completed—it’s hard to say for sure. Either way, it would be wise to reach out to Sweet Brothers directly to express your interest or follow them online through their social channels for updates. The dream of getting behind the wheel of a perfectly modernized classic performance truck could become a reality much sooner than expected.
Owner
Dan Hart/Sweet Brothers Restomods
1979 Ford F150
Upton, WY
Engine/Powertrain
Chassis/Suspension
Shop: Sweet Brothers Restomods, Upton, WY
Wheels, Tires & Brakes
Exterior & Paint
Interior & Sound
Shop: Roy Keith Classics, Hot Springs, SD
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The restomod is affectionately dubbed “the squirrel” by the Sweet Brothers team due to its exhilarating and unpredictable driving experience. This quirky name stems from the challenge of handling the vehicle, as driving it feels akin to trying to manage a lively squirrel that’s just been set free. The combination of vintage charm and modern performance makes each turn an adventure, embodying both the playfulness and the spirited nature that inspired its nickname.
“Dan Hart of Sweet Brothers has championed the concept of combining old and new, but his approach that has made all the difference in creating a style of truck is radically different from the rest. While it is common practice to swap a newer motor into an older truck or to incorporate some other later-model parts into a classic build, Dan has gone a few steps further while building the trucks he always dreamed of.
In one standout project, the team took a 2014 Raptor and embarked on a transformation that showcases their innovative craftsmanship. The process involved cutting the firewall and removing the floorboards to fit a 1979 short box regular cab. To achieve the perfect balance of style and functionality, they stretched the cab four inches, providing extra length that seamlessly integrates with modern components.
What truly sets this build apart is the flawless incorporation of contemporary features, such as the keypad and door latches, which offer the convenience and sophistication of a new vehicle. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the restomod not only looks stunning but also delivers a modern driving experience.
Sweet Brothers Restomods consistently demonstrates how to beautifully meld mismatched components, avoiding the pitfalls that often plague similar projects. Their success lies in their ability to create harmonious blends that respect the heritage of classic vehicles while embracing the advancements of modern technology.”
Their ability to create a harmonious blend of disparate components sets them apart, demonstrating a level of craftsmanship and creativity that successfully bridges the gap between vintage charm and modern functionality.
Unlike many other projects that attempt to merge old bodies with new vehicles and end up with unattractive results, this build is noted for its impressive execution and aesthetic appeal.
The modifications include altering the structure by cutting the firewall and removing the floorboards. A body from a 1979 short box regular cab is then fitted onto a modern 2014 Ford Raptor chassis, with the cab extended by four inches for additional space.
While this is not the first Raptor conversion that Dan Hart and Sweet Brothers’ Restomods have completed (they have also have another ’79 F-150 and a killer ’79 Ford Bronco that has graced our cover before), it sure won’t be their last. The guys have enjoyed the experience building these things while receiving the trophies and accolades that have followed the debut of each of their creations but will eventually offer them up for purchase with even more on the way!
In fact, Sweet Brothers is in the process of working on a number of other awesome projects. Among these upcoming ventures are a 1979 SuperCrew pickup and a four-door Bronco, both set to impress with a Raptor chassis. These projects promise to continue their tradition of excellence and innovation in the restomod world.
The anticipation for these builds is palpable, and as they prepare to unveil these new creations, the team is once again poised to capture the attention of enthusiasts everywhere. Keep an eye out as these unique vehicles will soon be available for sale, adding to the legacy of Sweet Brothers’ craftsmanship.
Both the 1979 SuperCrew pickup and the four-door Bronco will feature a Raptor chassis.
They are working on a 1979 SuperCrew pickup and a four-door Bronco.
Dan has gone a few steps further while building the trucks he always dreamed of.
What he envisioned is marrying the façade of a classic Ford pickup with the prowess of a Raptor, which is an amazing pairing. Simply swapping in a Raptor powerplant under the hood would leave the new/old mixture somewhere along the lines of an 80/20 figure. Dan was looking to level the playing field to at least half and half.
The truck you see here is equal parts 1979 F-150 and 2012 Raptor, although it may look more like an updated classic at first glance. Granted, most of the Raptor components are underneath the truck or inside of the cab. Either way, Dan has figured out a way to accomplish what he set out to do only with better results than he probably initially imagined possible.
The frame is 100% Raptor (including the wheels) with the only exception that it has been lengthened to 151 inches to properly fit underneath the ’79 crew cab body. The 6.2L engine and 6-speed transmission are both stock 2012 Raptor equipment—exactly how Ford offered them to the consumer.
But Dan didn’t stop there. He transformed this restomod into a modern powerhouse by incorporating all the cutting-edge amenities you’d expect from a contemporary truck. He cut the firewall and reworked the floorboards to integrate the 1979 short box regular cab seamlessly.
Inside, you’ll find luxuries like heated and cooled leather seats, navigation, and satellite radio—making it a comfortable ride for any journey. The addition of modern conveniences such as a keypad, new door latches, and the subtle hum of a well-engineered machine bring the past and present together effortlessly.
The crown jewel under the hood is the Roush Stage 2 supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering an impressive 590 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque. This ensures that while the truck may look like a classic, its performance is anything but vintage.
The vehicle is equipped with a Roush Stage 2 supercharged 6.2-liter V8 engine, delivering 590 horsepower and 590 pound-feet of torque.
It boasts advanced features such as a keypad entry system, modern door latches, and conveniences like heated and cooled leather seats, navigation, and satellite radio.
The truck you see here is equal parts 1979 Ford F150 pickup and 2012 Raptor, although it may look more like an updated classic at first glance. Dan has figured out a way to accomplish what he set out to do only with better results than he probably initially imagined possible.
The next order of business was to spend some time on the classic side of the fence with the ’79’s exterior. Cool Customs Body and Paint in Torrington, Wyoming, worked out the necessary kinks from the body before the Sweet Brothers team stepped in to incorporate more factory Raptor touches into the truck’s surface.
Once the blue and white PPG paint was applied, it’s tough to imagine a cooler OEM-style landscape for a beefy truck like this.
The real kicker of this particular build is the incorporation of the full Raptor interior inside of the cab. The term “full” is not used lightly here as not only have the seats have been included into this project, but everything from the dash, gauges, center console, flooring, door panels, headliner, and even the door latches that trigger the cab lights.
Even that annoying dinging sound reminding you to put your seatbelt on still functions, which is actually pretty cool to experience inside of a truck of this vintage. Road noise usually associated with older trucks has been neutralized here thanks to the Sweet Brothers’ team tireless effort to trick the driver’s brain into thinking they are driving a late-model pickup.
But that’s just the beginning of this transformation. This Raptor-fied 1979 Ford F150 pickup isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s packed with modern comforts and technology. Imagine settling into heated and cooled leather seats that make every drive luxurious, regardless of the weather outside. Navigate your way effortlessly with the built-in navigation system, ensuring you never lose your way on an adventure. And for those long journeys, enjoy crystal-clear tunes via satellite radio, which brings your favorite stations to life.
In short, this build seamlessly blends the rugged charm of a classic truck with the cutting-edge amenities of a modern powerhouse. Whether you’re drawn to the nostalgia of the vintage exterior or the sophisticated interior comforts, this truck offers the best of both worlds.
Dan Hart of Sweet Brothers has championed the concept of combining old and new, but his approach that has made all the difference in creating a style of truck is radically different from the rest. While it is common practice to swap a newer motor into an older truck or to incorporate some other later-model parts into a classic build, Dan has gone a few steps further while building the trucks he always dreamed of.
What he envisioned is marrying the façade of a classic Ford pickup with the prowess of a Raptor, which is an amazing pairing. Simply swapping in a Raptor powerplant under the hood would leave the new/old mixture somewhere along the lines of an 80/20 figure. Dan was looking to level the playing field to at least half and half.
The truck you see here is equal parts 1979 F-150 and 2012 Raptor, although it may look more like an updated classic at first glance. Granted, most of the Raptor components are underneath the truck or inside of the cab. Either way, Dan has figured out a way to accomplish what he set out to do only with better results than he probably initially imagined possible.
This 1979 Ford F-150 isn’t just a visual tribute to a bygone era; it’s a marvel of modern engineering wrapped in a vintage shell. Beneath its nostalgic exterior lies the heart and soul of a 2014 Raptor. This means it’s not just about looks, but a complete transformation that includes:
What sets this build apart is the seamless integration of these modern amenities with the classic body. The craftsmanship involved in this process is nothing short of remarkable, showcasing how Sweet Brothers Restomodshas adeptly merged mismatched components into a cohesive unit. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that the truck doesn’t just appear unique; it operates with the functionality and reliability of a contemporary vehicle.
It’s this kind of thorough integration and attention to detail that truly makes this 1979 Ford F-150 stand out in the world of restomods.
While this is not the first Raptor conversion that Dan Hart and Sweet Brothers’ Restomods have completed (they have also have another ’79 F-150 and a killer ’79 Ford Bronco that has graced our cover before), it sure won’t be their last.
This fascinating project combines the classic 1979 F-150 and Bronco bodywork with the robust underpinnings of a first-gen F-150 Raptor. Built by Wyoming’s Sweet Brothers Restomods, this stretched ’79 Bronco not only rides upon 2011 Raptor bones but also inherits its interior and engine.
The meticulous integration of modern engineering with vintage aesthetics exemplifies the team’s craftsmanship and innovation. Expect more jaw-dropping creations from these talented builders who continue to blur the lines between classic charm and contemporary performance.
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