There is a world of difference between restoration and resto-mod. I personally can't think of too many people who would put together an early Nova with a six cylinder, Powerglide, pea-green paint and bias ply tires, but I can think of plenty who would drop in a 454, four or five speed, and some nice fat DOT slicks on the back on alloy wheels with a nice dark blue or candy apple red paint job.
Some newer cars, especially in the rust belt qualify for restoration. I think the line is somewhere around major body panel repair, interior re-upholstery, and body off frame work.
I have had many older vehicles that were simply repaired, and did not need restoration.