Restore A Classic Car Easily And Affordably

So you have a weakness for classic cars, eh? Well, if you’re savvy with a tool box and knowledgeable about vintage rides, you can do this effectively and affordably. Plus, if you follow these tips you’ll be showing off your new ride in no time. Here’s how:

TIP 1: Find a partially restored classic car.

While you will pay more for this initially, finding a car that is slightly restored so you’re not starting from a heap of rusty metal will save you in the long run. Look for a car that has at least 50% of its parts in working order (or body in good condition). Then, it won’t seem to overwhelming.

TIP 2: Research the going rate.

Classic cars do tend to fluctuate. Do your research about the model you’re interested in before you start shopping. That way, you’ll know if you’re getting a deal or if someone is trying to rip you off. (For more information, read our “Do Classic Cars Need Insurance?“).

TIP 3: Source parts the smart way.

ebay Motors, salvage yards, local classified ads, and specialty websites are a jackpot for those looking for classic car parts they need to restore a vehicle. Do a quick Google search and check classic car fan pages on social media to see where the car you’re looking for is most likely to be found.

TIP 4: Do it yourself.

Fixing up a car yourself can be daunting, but it will save you a lot in the long run. If the only way you can restore a classic car is by adhering to a tight budget, then you’ll need to learn the ropes of how to do it yourself. Luckily, there are so many resources on the internet to help you. Type in the classic car you’re attempting to restore and look up a tutorial. Or, do it the old fashioned way and head to the library.

TIP 5: Use your own garage.

Save even more on restoring the classic car of your dreams when you garage it on your own property. Restoring a car can take weeks, months, or even years, so paying for a rental space can add up to a lot by the time you’re done. If you have the room, we recommend doing the work at home. If you struggle with restoring the car yourself, you can always take it to a restoration shop.

TIP 6: Don’t pick a rare car.

Not only will rare classic cars blow your budget, but sourcing parts for them will be a challenge as well. Here is a list of the top ten most affordable and easy to restore classic cars:

• 1964 – 1968 Mustangs
• 1967 – 1969 Chevy Camaros
• 1968 – 1970 Chevy Nova
• 1964 – 1965 Ford Falcon
• 1968 – 1972 Oldsmobile Cutlass
• 1955 – 1957 Chevy Bel Air
• 1971 – 1972 Chevy Chevelle
• 1928 – 1931 Ford Model A
• 1978 – 1982 Chevy Corvette
• 1968 – 1970 Dodge Charger

Tip 7: Determine if you’re more about the body or what’s inside.

Classic car restoration projects may have a number of issues that need fixing, but they’ll probably be focused on either the body or the interior. Are you more of a cosmetic DIYer or do you love to get your ratchets out and put engines back together? When you’re choosing a classic muscle car to restore, determine what needs to be rehabbed and if you’re comfortable doing it.

Read more: Classic Car Insurance

Tip 8: Set a budget and schedule!

Starting with a budget and a schedule is the first step to staying on track. Plan out your weekends and what needs to be done. Account for time it will take to source parts. Keep track of your expenses and progress so you can finish with a price tag you’re okay with and by your original deadline.

Before making any final decisions on your insurance company, it is important to learn as much as you can about your local insurance providers, and the coverages they offer. Call your local insurance agent to clear up any questions that you might have. Questions to consider asking include, “What is the best coverage plan for me/my family/my situation?” “What are the minimum coverage requirements in my state and what form of coverage do you recommend?” “Do you guys offer any bundle discounts if I take out both my auto insurance and home insurance with you?” and “What is the average rate of insurance quotes you guys offer?

Before making any big insurance decisions, use our free tool to compare insurance quotes near you. It’s simple, just plug in your zip code and we’ll do the rest!