Owen_Dyneto wrote:
The upside to this is that decent, unrestored cars are beginning (again, as in the 50s) to get more respect at shows and from the national organizations. For example, AACA's HPOF and CCCA's Touring Class. In my view, a well-preserved and maintained original car can be far more interesting than a restored example.

One reason the costs of restoration have risen, other than the inflation of costs of labor and services, is that the standards have risen dramatically, especially at the elite national forums. A well-done premium restoration of the 50s or 60s wouldn't even be an also-ran at Amelia Island, Pebble, etc. today.

I just cringe when I see a car advertised as "fully restored from a near-perfect original". Nuff to bring tears.