[Unknown User]

I've got a 72 240z with a rebuilt engine and very little rust (original paint) but don't have the time or ability to restore it. Does it make financial sense to hire the work done? Does anybody know of a restorer in the southeastern US? Would appreciate any help.

 

[Patrick Robinson]

Financially? In a word. NO!

You will never be able to sell a restored Z for what it costs to restore it. Think about it, how many times have you seen have $20K invested, will sacrifice for $4k or something similar?

I restored my '77, doing all of the work myself. Parts and paint came to greater than $7K. If you paid someone to do the work, it would cost another $8-9K at least. Could you sell the car for greater than $20K when you are done? I don't think so!

If you are going to keep the car for yourself and drive it, then it might make sense.

The only time a restoration make financial sense is if the car is a highly desirable collectable like an early corvette, a Ferrari, or some other special interest car. Unfortunately, I have yet to see any Z car in that category.

Do what the car was meant to do. Get it running well, looking good, and DRIVE IT!

Enjoy you Z!
Patrick Robinson

 

[Unknown User]

Well said Pat.......drive it and enjoy it....Then through it away.......Maybe by then something else will have been made you will want.

 

[Unknown User]

Well said Pat.......drive it and enjoy it....Then through it away.......Maybe by then something else will have been made you will want.

 

[Brian 72Z]

> Financially? In a word. NO!

Definitely not! In my case, I had the choice of buying a car for $2000 that was in good shape but needed a lot of work. I'm in the middle of fixing it up, and I'll probably put another $2000 plus countless hours. Will the car be worth $4000 when I'm done? Doubtful, with all of the hidden rust and body imperfecions.

On the other hand, I'll have fun fixing it up, and wind up with a pretty sweet machine. What else would I be able to get for $4000? Probably nothing that I would enjoy driving as much as this one.

What needs to be done with the car? How much would it cost to get the basic work done to keep it in good running order? (much different than a full restore!)