Questions:

Q: What do you typically charge to fully restore a vehicle?

A: Because there are many unknown or unforeseen repairs on any restoration project; (for example hidden rust beneath or behind another metal structure), it is not possible to accurately forecast the cost of restoring a vehicle. The true cost is only revealed during the rebuilding process. It is for this reason that all of our restorations are done on a time and materials basis. Each project will hold its share of unique repair challenges. Although, a much more accurate estimate can be made when the vehicle is fully disassembled; - stripped of all body parts, chrome, glass, suspension, interior, drive train, paints and undercoating, etc. etc., every piece will need to be inspected, and documented individually, for condition and originality. In addition, after the removal of all paint coatings, old collision damage, body dents and body rust, the body and frame would need to be closely evaluated. Obviously this disassembly and analysis alone would not be an inexpensive venture, especially if the customer decides not to go forward with the project. For these reasons, initial cost estimates are simply a best guess proposition.

Q: How much will my vehicle be worth once you've completed the full restoration?

A: It totally depends on what type of vehicle you had us restore in the first place, seriously. As a hypothetical example, if theoretically a highly optioned 1970 Chevrolet Corvette LT-1 and a plain jane, or what might be considered a striped 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L-88 took the exact same labor hours, parts cost, etc. to restore. The 1967 Chevrolet Corvette L-88 will most likely sell quickly and make money. While the 1970 Chevrolet Corvette LT-1, although a desireable car in it's own right, might loose money. This of course is based soley on the restoration costs and not including the inital purchase price of the vehicle. The restored car market is very voltile, and trying to guess if a car is worth restoring or not is a very difficult task. In most cases cars that have low production runs, and are specially equipped from either the factory or a source close to the factory make good candidates. But this is not always the case. Auto restoration is not for everyone. The vehicle owner must make a substantial financial commitment when the decission has been made to restore.
Back to the top

Q: What are the types of projects that Campbell Auto Restoration and High Performance Center has worked on?

A: We have experience in all automotive areas. From collision repair on exotic sports cars such as Ferraris to complete concourse restorations of ZL-1 Cheverolet Camaros. The following is a list of the types of projects that we do:

"Concours" is a totally original example of a restored vehicle. If the project starts out 100% complete then there is very little homework to do. Just disassemble and rebuild all components replacing what is necessary with N.O.S. parts if available. If Concours is your desire but you are starting with a basket case condition with numerous parts missing then you can expect a more expensive project. Although a parts car donor would help greatly.
"Restomod" is a vehicle that has a totally stock body but a late model reliable drive train with suspension, brake and tire and wheel modifications for road handling. Adding comfort items such as air conditioning and other power accessories is common. The classic looks of the past along with modern V8 power and a overdrive Transmission make a restomod car a pleasure to drive.
"Turn and Burn" car. Which is a car that not only would do well at the drag strip, but performs equally as well at an open track road course event or auto cross. Updating the car with modern high performance electronic port fuel injected engines, six speed transmissions. Revising front (and if necessary) rear suspensions to take advantage of modern geometry. With the suspension changes you can also update the car to a modern wheel and tire combination of 17" to 18" and a tread width size that is up to four times the size than what the car originally came with. And of course a braking system that actually stops the car. These updates will allow a car to pull 1g in the corners, 1 + g's in acceleration and 1g stopping forces. What ever type of body style or make you are starting with, custom modifications to the drive train, suspension, interior and the body including custom paint jobs etc. typlify this style of project.
A "Street Rod" is a 1929 to 1948 Body style and is usually built with all new parts. This project is custom built for the driver to fit him or her specifically. Everything from mild to extreme drive trains are installed including the latest billet items. Custom paint jobs with body modifications are quite common.

All of these choices cost money to build correctly but the condition of the vehicle you start with and your own personal desires will determine the amount of time it takes to complete and thus, the final cost. In addition, any vehicle you own can have upgrades and changes made to suit your taste. You can also combine any of these types of projects to suit your own preference. We are here to build your dream ride, your way.
Back to the top

Q: What are the alternatives to having Campbell Auto Restoration and High Performance Center perform a full restoration?

A: There are several, actually. We are willing to work with you towards your goals for the vehicle. After we've evaluated your vehicles condition we can help you formulate a plan that allows us to perform the tasks that you don't have the equipment or desire to complete. Such as engine assembly, Paint work, cosmetic only restorations, detailing, etc. We also have experience in working on piece meal projects. The upside to this approach is that you reap the benifits of your labor, the down side can be a tougher scheduling process.
Back to the top