Classic car restoration - what you need to know
The most important facts in brief:
- Restoration strengthens the classic car for the future and also preserves its collector's value
- There are the following restoration stages: Conservation, partial restoration, full restoration and restoration in bankruptcy condition
- The cost of a classic car restoration depends on the condition of the vehicle, classic car model and desired condition
Classic car restoration
A classic car is not just a car, it is a piece of cultural heritage from a bygone era. This piece of history can be brought back to life with a professional classic car restoration. Ferdinand Porsche, Gottlieb Daimler or Sir William Lyons - all the visionaries of the past created cars that embody the design, engineering and technical sophistication of a certain era and can now live on with the right restoration. Restoration strengthens the classic car for the future and also preserves its collector's value, provided the restoration is carried out using original parts. The aim of a classic car restoration should always be to restore the vehicle to a condition that comes as close as possible to the original - or even surpasses it.
The right classic car restoration
Classic car restoration is possible in various forms and depends on the budget and the desired condition.
The following restoration stages are possible:
Preservation:
In preservation, the classic car is left in its current condition and only the bare minimum is done to protect it from further damage. This form is suitable for enthusiasts who appreciate the classic car with all its nooks and crannies, but want to protect it from further deterioration.
Partial restoration:
In a partial restoration, the entire classic car is not restored, but only a specific part. Areas that are badly damaged or no longer functional are replaced or treated. Typical partial restorations include engine repairs, paint work or the replacement of certain body parts.
Full restoration:
In a full restoration, the vehicle is dismantled down to the last part, refurbished and finally carefully rebuilt. A full restoration is time-consuming and cost-intensive, but the classic car is then in a condition that resembles a new car with a classic look. It looks as if the classic car has just come straight from the factory.
Restoration in concours condition:
This form of classic car restoration is particularly demanding and is often only carried out for high-quality collector's items. Classic cars that are restored to concours condition usually take part in classic car competitions. They correspond to the manufacturer's original specifications down to the smallest detail.
Costs for a classic car restoration
Before starting the restoration of a classic car, a thorough examination of the vehicle is essential. This involves checking the condition of the bodywork, engine, interior and technology. On this basis, a restoration plan can then be drawn up and the budget calculated. The cost of a classic car restoration depends on the scope of the restoration and varies greatly. The classic car model also influences the cost of a restoration. Classic car enthusiasts often carry out the restoration themselves and only occasionally seek advice from a specialist. This is another way of saving costs. However, a classic car restoration is a major project and therefore very time-consuming, which should be taken into account if you want to do it yourself.
Have a classic car restored, but where?
We recommend that you always have a classic car restoration carried out by a specialist. There is sure to be a workshop near you that specializes in classic car restoration. It is important that original parts are used for the restoration wherever possible in order to preserve the value and authenticity of the vehicle. The classic car restoration specialist in your area will pay attention to this and if this is not possible, specialized providers offer high-quality replicas. Of course, you will also find high-quality parts for your classic car restoration in our online store.