ADAM BERNARD: OLD SCHOOL PASSION, NEW SCHOOL VISION
By Emily Hickey
When it comes to automotive passion, Adam Bernard keeps it 100—taking classic American iron and making it his own with a perfect blend of restoration and modern performance upgrades. DUB Magazine takes you inside his eclectic collection that bridges automotive eras and stands as a testament to what happens when you’re “born with it,” as he says.
THE ORIGINAL LOVE AFFAIR
Like many true car enthusiasts, Bernard’s relationship with classics started early. “When I was a little kid, and I’d see a classic car come by, I was mesmerized,” he explains, sitting among his impressive collection in Thousand Oaks, California. While his father and uncle appreciated cars, they never owned them. Bernard took that appreciation “to the next level,” beginning his journey with a 1968 Mustang when he was just 16—a purchase he describes as driven by love, though affordability played a role too.
That Mustang sparked a lifelong obsession that’s manifested in his current collection—a group that spans automotive history from the late 1920s through present day, with each vehicle carrying its own unique characteristics and modifications.
RESTOMOD PHILOSOPHY
A recurring theme in Bernard’s collection is his balanced approach to restoration. While many collectors choose sides in the original-versus-modified debate, Bernard flows comfortably between both worlds. “I really like both ends of the spectrum,” he states. “I like putting disc brakes and modern creature comforts on classic cars. But I also really love the old idiosyncrasies on how to operate an old car.”
This philosophy is evident throughout his fleet, with some vehicles receiving comprehensive modern upgrades while others maintain their period-correct quirks. It’s a refreshingly pragmatic approach in a scene often divided between purists and customizers.
THE FLEET: A TRIP THROUGH AUTOMOTIVE HISTORY
1928 Ford Model A Panel Truck: The Rare One
Perhaps the most unusual vehicle in Bernard’s collection is his 1928 Ford Model A panel truck—Ford’s first attempt at a higher delivery vehicle. With double doors in the back and a wood-framed body, it was originally designed for bakeries and other businesses needing enclosed cargo space.
“There’s supposedly only around 30 of these left,” Bernard notes with pride, having acquired it from a friend who owned two. While respecting its historical significance, Bernard didn’t hesitate to enhance it with a 351 motor and independent suspension. The truck underwent a frame-off restoration that maintained its period-correct colors while adding disc brakes and reliability upgrades.
1931 Model A Tudor Sedan: The Time Capsule
Bernard’s 1931 Model A Tudor Sedan carries perhaps the richest history in his collection. Purchased from the original family whose patriarch was president of a Model A club, this vehicle has literally traveled the world.
“This car was shipped to Europe, driven all through Europe,” Bernard explains, “It even participated in the 1984 Olympic parade”, cementing its place in automotive cultural history.
Unlike some of his other rides, this Model A remains largely original—complete with all the idiosyncrasies that make driving it an adventure. “You got to double clutch it to get it in gear,” Bernard says with a smile. “It has advance-retard for the timing when you’re driving it. I can’t imagine being 16 years old and trying to learn how to drive something like this.”
1949 Ford Shoebox: The Classic Hot Rod
The 1949 Ford “shoebox”—a nickname derived from its distinctive shape—represents classic hot rod culture at its finest. Bernard’s example is heavily modified with a chopped top, channeled body, and sits on airbags for that perfect stance.
“Since I was a kid, this is one of the most iconic hot rods from the ’50s,” Bernard explains, clearly connecting with the vehicle’s cultural significance. The “root beer” or “black cherry” paint is a classic hot rod color choice that complements the car’s modified silhouette.
Despite its radical customization, Bernard has built it to be fully functional with power brakes, power steering, and air conditioning. He’s driven it to Big Bear several times for car shows—a testament to his belief that classics should be driven, not just displayed.
1965 Mustang Fastback: The Canyon Carver
Bernard describes his 1965 Mustang fastback as “probably one of the most in-depth restomod restorations I’ve ever done.” With coilover suspension, disc brakes, and a 347 Stroker motor, this pony car has been transformed into a modern performer while retaining its classic Mustang aesthetic.
The project took three to four years to complete, but Bernard says it’s been “the most reliable, fun classic car I’ve ever had.” Built to handle like a contemporary sports car, it’s equally at home on canyon roads or the track, embodying the perfect balance between classic style and modern capability.
1962 Econoline Van: The Labor of Love
Perhaps the most challenging build in Bernard’s collection is his 1962 Econoline van. Inspired by his neighbor’s father who owned one when Bernard was young, this five-year project bounced “from shop to shop” before finally becoming drivable.
“These vans originally were never meant to be customized—they were called Econoline for a reason. They were work vans,” Bernard explains. Now sitting on air bags and powered by an LS2 motor, the van features disc brakes and independent suspension—transforming a utilitarian vehicle into a stylish cruiser.
The customization process was so challenging that Bernard had the van painted three different times before settling on the current color scheme. When the color didn’t match the already-completed interior, he had to start over inside as well.
1970s Subaru 360 Van: The Head-Turner
Perhaps the most unexpected vehicle in Bernard’s collection is his 1970s Subaru 360 van—one of the first Subarus imported to America during the gas crisis. Despite the practical reasoning behind its introduction, these diminutive vehicles didn’t sell well in a market where “Americans will pay anything for horsepower,” as Bernard puts it.
Bernard’s fascination with these quirky vans began at age nine when he spotted one at the Pomona swap meet. “It took me years to find out what it was and took me years to find one decent enough to buy,” he recalls.
Now, this two-stroke-powered micro-van generates more attention than Bernard’s more valuable classics. “You could take this thing to a car show and park it next to a Lamborghini, and people are going to be like, ‘What is this thing?'” Bernard says with obvious delight.
CHROME AND STEEL FAMILY
Beyond the four-wheeled members of his collection, Bernard also nurtures a passion for vintage Harley-Davidson choppers. His collection includes models from 1949 through 1973, including shovelheads and panheads—each with its own character and quirks.
For Bernard, these bikes represent more than just machines; they’re tickets to a vibrant community. “Going on rides with good friends and all breaking down and pulling together to see who has a part to fix something. Just an amazing community and hobby and lifestyle, really,” he explains.
The motorcycles exemplify Bernard’s hands-on approach to his vehicles—embracing their imperfections as part of their charm. “There’s a famous story, you know, a motto: if it’s not leaking, it means it doesn’t have any oil in it,” he laughs.
THE CHANGING LANDSCAPE
When asked how the classic car collecting landscape has changed since he entered it, Bernard immediately points to costs. “The classic car restoration has definitely changed dramatically cost-wise,” he observes. “As far as painting the car, interior… the cost is unbelievable.”
Despite rising expenses, Bernard remains committed to his philosophy that classics should be driven. Unlike many collectors who trailer their prized possessions to shows, Bernard drives all of his vehicles to events. “Every car starts and runs and is able to drive,” he insists.
While firmly committed to preserving internal combustion engines, Bernard acknowledges the emerging electric conversion scene. “The electric car industry has got dramatically better with all the improvements and some amazing stuff out there,” he admits, showing an openness to automotive evolution while staying rooted in tradition.
THE NEVER-ENDING PROJECT
For Adam Bernard, these vehicles are more than just a collection—they’re ongoing relationships. He compares them to children, noting that “one day one could be working and driving perfect, the next day won’t start.”
When asked to pick a favorite, Bernard can’t commit. His preference changes “daily” depending on his mood and which vehicles are currently cooperating. It’s this constantly evolving relationship with his machines that keeps the passion alive.
Like many serious collectors, Bernard maintains a “whole list” of vehicles he still wants, with a Porsche 356 sitting at the top. But for now, his eclectic fleet represents the perfect balance of preservation and innovation—staying true to automotive history while making it relevant for today’s roads.
