Leno's 1000 Horsepower Toronado (Video Enhanced Story)

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October 2004 (Newstream) -- Restoring hot rods and restoring classic cars isn't just for extreme car nuts anymore. In fact, with resources they didn't have 30 years ago, more car owners are custom-building their own vehicles at a growing rate. Just ask late night talk show king Jay Leno.

Leno has been collecting new cars and rare collectibles for decades. But his true passion is restoring, improving and hot rodding a classic. His latest project was a 1966 Oldsmobile Toronado, whose classic styling he combined with an enormous 1076 horsepower. In comparison, the newest Corvette goes zero to sixty mph in 4.2 seconds with only 400 horsepower. Leno's Toronado engine was custom built by General Motors Performance Parts division, who produce high-performance engines for automotive enthusiasts.

Building and restoring cars isn't just a guy thing either. Experts say it can be a family bonding experience and can also teach children exactly how a car is built and works before they get their driver's license.