There’s nothing like a beautifully restored classic car. Whether you see them at a classic car show or cruising down Main Street on a sunny Saturday, they’re enough to take your breath away. Classic car restoration can be a rewarding hobby, but it’s not for everyone.
If you’ve ever wondered whether restoring classic cars is a good investment, this blog is for you. We’ll look at the ins and outs of the process, and help you understand what you need to know about this exciting pursuit.
Let’s dive in.
3 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Starting Classic Car Restoration
If you’re considering whether to restore a classic car, ask yourself these three questions:
1. Do you have the budget?
Classic car restoration can be expensive. According to recent estimates, an overall restoration on a classic car can easily cost $40,000-$60,000.
If you want to start restoring cars, you need to have a healthy budget to do so. You’ll also need plenty of free time to manage the process, since a single restoration can easily take years. Finally, you’ll need a solid relationship with a local mechanic who is willing to help with the work.
2. What’s your goal with the car?
Why are you interested in restoring the car in the first place?
Do you want to take it to car shows? Sell it? Keep it for yourself? Give it to your kids? The answer to this question will determine whether classic car restoration is a “good investment” for you.
If you plan to restore the car and then sell it, the process might be a good investment. Restored classic cars can easily sell for tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the make and model.
If you want to keep the car for yourself, though, you won’t recoup the money you spent to restore it. But who can put a price on happiness?!
3. Is the car worth restoring?
Finally, ask yourself if the car is even worth restoring. Here are a few factors to consider:
- The car’s make and model.
- The amount of work required.
- Rarity.
- The condition the car is currently in.
- How expensive and available parts are.
- The car’s sentimental value to you.
While old cars are always fun to look at, not all of them are worth a $50,000 restoration. Get real about these questions to avoid making a poor financial decision down the road.
DeBroux Automotive: Here to Help Pensacola Restore its Classic Cars
If you decide to go ahead with classic car restoration, our team is here for you. As a trusted, local mechanic, we specialize in providing auto repair for both daily drivers and rare, classic cars. Contact us today to learn more about our classic car restoration services, or to find out how our team can partner with you to bring your vision of a perfectly restored classic to life.