The Bottom Line.  The Brass Tacks.

Not really that easy.  We are not talking about fixing the dented fender on your BMW.  We are not talking about replacing the busted out tail light on your sister-in-laws Lexus.  We are talking about reducing an entire vehicle to its basic components.  Evaluating, replacing, repairing, refinishing, or upgrading every single nut, bolt, wire, switch, sub-assembly, body panel, and component to a condition that matches or exceeds the vehicles original quality.  And then putting it all back together in what is more a work of art than mass produced assembly line product.

Even the most straight forward, no complications car can run upwards of 1000 hours to do this way.  Not including parts or supplies, it does add up.  It is not cheap, it is rolling work of art, a driveable memory.

I know it is very frustrating, even trying to get a "ballpark" figure from anyone in this industry.  There are so many variables, each cars condition varies.  There are hidden surprises that cannot be anticipated.  That a show quality paint job alone can run thousands, even 10s of thousands should give you an idea of where to start.  Add in all the hours taking it apart, fixing everything that is not bodywork, parts, upgrades, custom work, and you get up to 30-40k in a hurry.  And, with anything in this world, the sky is the limit.  You want something unique, and over the top, write a big check, anything is possible, with enough money.  Don't expect a high quality, full scale restoration, that exceeds original quality, for $3000 dollars.  $3000 might fix the hail damage on your Uncle's Taurus.  Have realistic expectations.


The real bottom line, is that you have to know what you really want.  Do your research. Be informed. Be realistic.  You will see that you get what you pay for.