Not every car is worth restoring. In fact, when you consider things like parts availability and market demand, some restoration projects will actually put you in the red.
The good news is that you don’t have to give up on your dream just because a few models are overly expensive. If you want to restore a classic car that’s both gorgeous and profitable, here are six of your options. Some may be lesser-known than, say, a 1972 Dodge Challenger, but they’re all worth your time.
1. 1953 Chevrolet Bel Air
Bel Airs are some of the most classic cars of their decade, and they’re also extremely affordable for the budget-conscious restorer. Not only are their parts widely available, but they have a good resell value as well.
2. 1969 AMC AMX
AMXs have been gaining popularity through the years as people realize how sleek and speedy they are. They’re also relatively easy to restore since they offer no surprises under the hood, so they’re a perfect first-time restoration car.
3. 1928 Ford Model A
You’ll never have trouble finding parts for the Ford Model A. In addition to reproduction lines, there’s also a healthy supply of aftermarket parts, meaning you can always find what you need to make this baby purr again.
4. 1971 Pontiac GTO
GTOs can be expensive to restore, but the ’71 models are less costly than most, and they’ll also earn you a pretty penny when you decide to resell. All in all, it’s a model that’s very much worth the time and money spent restoring it.
5. 1965 Cadillac
The ’60s were a great time for automobiles, and a 1965 Cadillac will be the shining jewel of your collection. Turn every head on the street when you’re driving one of these bad boys.
6. 1962 Pontiac Grand Prix
This is a favorite among classic car enthusiasts, so you’ll always be able to find parts. You’ll also enjoy a lot of advice from the community if you have questions or need mechanical help as you restore it.
These are just six ways to play around with antique car restoration without breaking the bank. Whatever year and model you wind up choosing, make sure you do your research before sinking any money into the project. A few days of homework can save you a lot of headache in the long run.
