The Value of Classic Antique Vehicles Post-Restoration: Expert Insights and Considerations

Restoring a classic antique vehicle is a complex and often controversial process. While some enthusiasts argue that personal restoration can significantly increase the value of a classic car, others believe that professional appraisals are necessary to accurately assess the worth of a restored antique. This article explores the factors that determine the value of a classic antique vehicle after restoration, and whether a personal restoration effort can justify the same level of value as a professionally restored one.

The Importance of Restoration Quality

When considering the value of a classic antique vehicle, it is crucial to focus on the quality of the restoration. Whether the restoration is done by a professional or a car owner themselves, the end result and accompanying documentation are key. High-quality restoration work should be evident through well-preserved details, top-notch materials, and meticulous documentation such as photos, receipts, and videos.

Comparing Professional and Personal Restorations

Some observers argue that a professionally restored classic vehicle is more valuable than one restored by the owner. This is largely due to the expertise and attention to detail that professional restorers bring to the table. Professional restorers often have access to authentic parts, specialized tools, and extensive knowledge in the specific model being restored. These advantages can result in a vehicle that is more accurately preserved in its intended state.

However, personal restorations can also result in high-quality vehicles if done with care and dedication. Some experienced owners possess the necessary skills and resources to achieve comparable results to those of a professional restoration. The key difference lies in the documentation and integrity of the restoration process.

Case Study: A 1966 Shelby GT350 Restored by an Owner

In his experience, Marc highlights a notable case involving a 1966 Shelby GT350 that he purchased as a wrecked car in 1978. The owner reportedly restored the vehicle "by the owner" without any professional mechanics or car builders involved. Marc's subsequent experience with this vehicle serves as a valuable case study in assessing the value of non-professional restorations.

Realizing that genuine Shelby parts were hard to come by and often expensive, Marc eventually had to pay a substantial amount for every part needed to replace the original FoMoCo parts. The labor and materials costs over a span of 8 years were in the range of us$80,000. This combination of parts and labor created a nightmare for Marc, who felt he had become the victim of high prices and poor restoration practices.

Today, considered in today's inflation-adjusted terms, the cost of such a project could be even higher. The point here is that the owner's restoration effort, although well-intentioned, did not justify the high market value of a professionally restored vehicle. Marc's cautionary tale serves as a reminder that personal restorations, no matter how skilled the owner, may not always command the same value as professionally restored vehicles.

Conclusion

When it comes to restoring a classic antique vehicle, the type of restoration is just one of many factors that influence the final value. Quality, authenticity of parts, and completeness of documentation are key determinants. While personal restorations can be excellent, they often fall short of the professional level of restoration due to a lack of expertise, access to authentic parts, and the rigor of the documentation process.

Prospective buyers and sellers should carefully evaluate the restoration history and documentation of any classic antique vehicle they are interested in. A thorough understanding of the restoration process and its quality can help ensure that a buyer is making a well-informed decision, avoiding the pitfalls of overpaying for subpar work.

The decision to either engage in personal restoration or have a vehicle professionally restored ultimately depends on individual preferences and the specific requirements of the vehicle. Whichever route is chosen, it is crucial to prioritize quality, authenticity, and comprehensive documentation to ensure the best possible value for the restored classic antique vehicle.