Restoring a modern car and a vintage car can have distinct differences due to the technological advancements, availability of parts, and complexity of the vehicles. Let’s face it-not all of us have the tools, skills, and space to restore a vintage car by ourselves. Where does this leave us? There are hundreds of restoration professionals operating a car restoration specialty shop out there who can tackle even the rustiest hulk of a formerly glorious car. Before you can choose a restoration shop, you have got to decide what you want the finished car to be (Concours-winning show car, or simply a nice driver?) and how much money you can spend to get to that point.
When you finally own a restoration-worthy car, you will have to determine if you can perform any aspects of the rebuild yourself, or if you will have to farm out part or the entire project to specialists. If you reason that restoration is out of your league, the next step becomes the homework you will have to do to pick a restoration shop that will deliver the finished product you envision while remaining close to your budget and time schedule. Or do you farm out your vintage car to have work done by autobody, interior, and mechanic’s shops.
Here are some key differences between restoring a modern car and a vintage car at a specialty shop for car restoration:
Technological Complexity:
- Modern Car: Modern vehicles incorporate advanced electronics, computerized engine management systems, complex safety features, and integrated infotainment systems. Restoring a modern car involves dealing with intricate electronics and software-related components.
- Vintage Car: Vintage cars typically have simpler mechanical systems with fewer electronic components. Restoring a vintage car often focuses on mechanical repairs and preservation of original components.
Availability of Parts:
- Modern Car: Parts for modern cars are generally more readily available through dealerships, aftermarket suppliers, and online retailers. This can make sourcing replacement components and accessories easier.
- Vintage Car: Finding original or compatible parts for vintage cars can be more challenging due to discontinued production and limited availability. Often, classic car enthusiasts need to rely on salvage yards, specialized vintage parts suppliers, and restoration shops.
Specialized Tools and Equipment:
- Modern Car: Restoring a modern car may require specialized diagnostic tools, software, and equipment to communicate with the vehicle’s onboard computers. Modern car repair often involves using advanced scanners and programming tools.
- Vintage Car: While vintage car restoration might involve specialized tools for specific tasks, the overall toolset required is generally less technologically advanced compared to modern cars.
Skillset and Knowledge:
- Modern Car: Restoring a modern car demands a solid understanding of computerized engine management, electronic diagnostics, and software-related issues. Technicians need to be well-versed in modern automotive technology.
- Vintage Car: Vintage car restoration relies on mechanical expertise and traditional automotive knowledge. This includes understanding carbureted engines, manual transmissions, and mechanical systems that are not reliant on advanced electronics.
Preservation vs. Upgrades:
- Modern Car: Restoring a modern car may involve upgrading components with newer, more advanced technology to improve performance, efficiency, and safety features.
- Vintage Car: Restoring a vintage car often aims to preserve the car’s original character and components, maintaining its historical and nostalgic value.
Regulatory Considerations:
- Modern Car: Modern cars need to comply with strict emissions and safety regulations. Modifications may require adhering to legal standards and certifications.
- Vintage Car: Vintage cars are often exempt from certain modern emissions and safety requirements. However, modifications can impact their historical authenticity and may need to be done carefully to remain compliant with regulations.
Aesthetics and Design:
- Modern Car: Restoring a modern car might involve addressing design changes and aesthetic updates that align with contemporary automotive styles.
- Vintage Car: Vintage car restoration often focuses on retaining or restoring the original design elements and aesthetics that define the vehicle’s era.
In General Comparisons
Both modern and vintage car restoration require specific expertise, tools, and approaches. The choice between restoring a modern or vintage car depends on personal preferences, technical skills, available resources, and the goals of the restoration project.
Yes, a regular auto body shop can potentially handle car restorations, but there are a few important considerations to keep in mind:
Experience and Expertise:
While auto body shops are skilled in repairing and refinishing damaged vehicles, classic car restorations often require a higher level of expertise and attention to detail. Classic cars might have unique components, different manufacturing techniques, and specific design characteristics that require specialized knowledge.
Specialized Tools and Equipment:
Classic car restoration can involve working with older and more delicate materials. Some auto body shops may lack the specialized tools and equipment needed for vintage car restoration, such as metal shaping tools, period-correct paint application techniques, and precision restoration equipment.
Parts Sourcing:
Classic car restoration often requires sourcing original or high-quality reproduction parts. Auto body shops may not have the network and expertise to locate and acquire these parts efficiently.
Historical Accuracy:
Many classic car enthusiasts place a premium on historical accuracy. Restoring a vintage car often involves replicating period-correct details, which may require in-depth research and knowledge that extends beyond typical auto body work.
Attention to Originality:
Preserving the originality of a classic car is essential for its historical and collector value. An auto body shop needs to understand the importance of preserving and restoring original components, finishes, and features.
Project Scope and Timeline:
Classic car restorations can be more time-consuming than regular auto body repairs due to the extensive nature of the work. Ensure that the auto body shop can commit to the necessary time and resources to complete the restoration project properly.
Communication:
Effective communication between the owner and the shop is crucial for a successful restoration. Make sure the auto body shop understands your restoration goals and expectations.
References and Portfolio:
Before entrusting your classic car to an auto body shop, ask for references or examples of previous classic car restoration projects they have successfully completed.
Finally
If you are considering having a regular auto body shop handle a classic car restoration, it is essential to thoroughly discuss the project details, your expectations, and their level of expertise. Some auto body shops do specialize in classic car restorations and have the necessary skills and equipment, while others may not be the best fit for such projects. Ultimately, your choice should be based on the shop’s capabilities, experience, and the specific needs of your classic car restoration.
And remember; once a restoration begins, most good restorers want to remain in touch with the car’s owner to allow progress updates as well as to keep abreast of potential financial issues. If the shop you have chosen is not within a reasonable driving distance, be sure to ask for detailed photographs on a regular basis.
