Classic 1985 Ford pickup transformed into modern off-roader for major auto show

A custom 1985 Ford F-250 pickup truck built by restorer Matt Johnson is heading to the official display for Ford at the upcoming SEMA show in Las Vegas. The project started when Johnson discussed a different engine upgrade with Ford, which eventually led to using a vintage Ford truck found sitting behind his shop instead of a Toyota vehicle. Ford Performance stepped in to support the makeover of the old pickup, which Johnson originally bought for eight hundred dollars and nicknamed Norma Jeane. ## The Build Details The upgraded truck now runs on a powerful Ford Racing 575-horsepower V-8 engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Johnson shared the entire vehicle transformation online through a massive ninety-two-part social media series that tracked everything from custom suspension work to retro window seals. While much of the truck features modern mechanical parts, it keeps its classic nineteen-eighties look through original-style details like retro hubcaps and a vintage stereo system. ## Event Details And Context The vehicle build was initially planned to take just forty days, but the timeline stretched out significantly once the automaker decided to feature the project at the trade event. Johnson has gained a massive online following through his restoration shop account, drawing hundreds of thousands of fans across platforms like Instagram and Facebook. The truck was loaded onto a transport vehicle in Oregon to make the trip to the exhibition, which runs from November third through the sixth. ## Context The SEMA trade show is an annual automotive industry gathering where custom car builders and major manufacturers show off unique vehicle designs and aftermarket parts. Restomods—which take older classic vehicles and update their engines and inner workings with modern technology—have grown very popular among car enthusiasts and collectors. Ford's official Raptor brand itself first debuted back in two thousand eight at a famous endurance race in Mexico before becoming a major fixture in the company's high-performance truck lineup.