Restoring classic cars and trucks is a labor of love, but it’s also an expensive undertaking. Many enthusiasts dream of bringing an old vehicle back to life, only to be shocked by the costs involved. Whether you’re restoring a 1967 Mustang, a 1955 Chevy truck, or a 1970 Dodge Challenger, expenses can add up quickly. Let’s break down why classic car restoration can be so costly.
The High Cost of Parts
One of the most significant expenses in restoring classic cars is the cost of parts. Unlike modern vehicles, replacement parts for older models aren’t always readily available. Some key factors that drive up the cost include:
Rare or discontinued parts:
Many classic cars and trucks are no longer in production, making their parts hard to find. Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts can be incredibly expensive, and some may only be available through specialty vendors or salvage yards.
Reproduction parts:
While reproduction parts are often more affordable than OEM, they may still come at a premium, especially if they are made in limited quantities.
Custom fabrication:
When parts simply aren’t available, they often need to be custom-made, adding labor costs on top of materials.
Impact of tariffs:
Recent tariffs on imported goods have increased the cost of certain auto parts, especially those sourced from overseas. This trend may continue to drive up restoration expenses in the future.
Labor Costs
Even if you’re handy with a wrench, restoring a classic car involves countless hours of labor. Professional restorers charge high rates for good reason:
Rusty bolts and stuck components:
Decades of wear and exposure to the elements can result in corroded bolts, frozen fasteners, and deteriorated components. Removing them requires extra effort, and sometimes parts break during disassembly, leading to additional repair or replacement costs.
Rebuilding major systems:
Engine overhauls, transmission rebuilds, and suspension restorations require precision work that takes time. Skilled labor doesn’t come cheap, and the more complex the restoration, the higher the price tag.
Electrical and wiring challenges:
Old electrical systems can be brittle, corroded, or improperly modified over the years, requiring time-consuming rewiring efforts.
Bodywork
One of the biggest unknowns in any classic car restoration is the condition of the body. The true extent of bodywork required isn’t always visible until the old paint is stripped away.
Rust repair:
Surface rust may be easy to spot, but deeper rust issues can be lurking under the paint, inside wheel wells, or beneath trim pieces. Cutting out rusted panels and welding in new metal is time-consuming and expensive.
Previous repairs and hidden bondo work:
Many classic cars have undergone previous bodywork, and not all repairs are done well. Excessive use of bondo (body filler) or improperly welded panels can create problems that require significant rework.
Painting and finishing costs:
A quality paint job is a major expense, especially if the car needs extensive body preparation. Painting requires careful sanding, priming, and multiple layers of paint and clear coat, all of which contribute to the final cost.
Customization
Many classic car enthusiasts don’t just want a stock restoration; they want to add personal touches that make their vehicle unique. Most of the time this is referred to as a Restomod. Customization can drive up costs due to:
Upgraded engines and performance parts:
High-performance engines, suspension upgrades, and modern braking systems can be costly but enhance the driving experience.
Interior modifications:
Custom upholstery, modern audio systems, and digital dashboards require skilled labor and premium parts and materials.
Exterior enhancements:
Custom paint jobs, aftermarket wheels, and body modifications add to both labor and material costs.
Conclusion
Restoring a classic car or truck isn’t just about passion—it’s a significant financial investment. Between rare parts, labor-intensive repairs, and the unpredictability of bodywork, costs can skyrocket quickly. Additionally, new tariffs on imported auto parts may further increase the cost of restorations in the future. Only time will tell on that. While the end result is an amazing thing to look at and drive, it’s important to be prepared for the expenses involved. Whether you’re doing a frame-off restoration or just getting a classic back on the road, understanding these costs can help set realistic expectations for your project.
For those looking for help with their classic ride, RSR is ready to assist with all your classic car restoration needs. From sourcing parts, helping with a build sheet, to facilitating bodywork and customizations, we’re here to make your dream car or truck a reality. Regardless of what your project cost looks like, what we can guarantee is that we will do everything as efficiently and effectively as possible, without sacrificing quality. Get in touch with us today.