How much does it cost to restore a classic car?

When you're about to embark on a restoration, you need to consider not only the cost of the parts needed but also the fact that in many cases, you really won't get your money back on the car. There's no point beating around the bush here, the majority of the time a classic is the second car, basically just a grown up's toy for the summer and not a money maker.

Each car is different so we like to see the car with all its defects in either person or in photos, to give a true estimate of the cost. But I suppose you're here to learn if restoring your car is expensive. It is. It's very, very, extremely expensive so don't be shocked when we break it all down for you

What are the steps in restoring a classic car?

Just so you know, there really is no such thing as a 'typical restoration', as every car has its own unique personal history. From the initial construction at the factory through the years of maintenance and repairs, each car has its own particular strengths and weaknesses. A lot of these cars were hand-built, so things like door gaps on similar models are more than likely different!

Initial Meeting / Consultation This is pretty self-explanatory, we need to know what we're expected to do! Taking something and making it look good is the essence of our workshop, we know design and what will look good. But, this is where you need to tell us what work you would like carried out, how you want the car to look at the end, and most importantly what your budget is. We can give our opinion and advise you along the way. Actually, before we go any further, you should read this piece on pricing and values. Inspection We'll check out the car and see what the condition is like. Is it original, what parts are missing, what needs replacing... 'The List' is made here. Dismantling Every major assembly component is carefully stripped, with individual parts documented and photographed. Sub-assembly parts are grouped and bagged ready for refurbishment or replacement. This is a fancy way of saying your car is completely stripped out, and every part that is removed is safely stored. Media Cleaning Careful media blasting to return any corroded areas on the vehicle back to bare metal. Careful is the keyword here. This is followed by an inspection of the structural condition ahead of any metal rectification. Once the bare metal is exposed, these sections are given an initial coat of primer to protect against corrosion. Bodyshell Rectification Next up is the cutting out of any corroded metal. Rusty bits be-gone! New genuine panels or our fabricated panels are used in replacement and all types of welding are utilised throughout to ensure an authentic appearance. Component Refurbishment We've already checked the condition of every part we've taken off, so it's just a case of unboxing all the new pieces we've ordered (it's honestly like Christmas). Anything salvageable is then refurbished. However, seals, bushings, rubbers, nuts, bolts, brakes, pipes and hoses are always replaced. Then it's down to the overall finish you want on the car. It could be anything from how shiny do you want it, to fancying an uprated suspension or brake set-up... the list is endless, but thankfully you have us to advise you on what to replace and what will look best. Paint We use a unique 11-stage painting process, developed solely for the restoration of classic cars. The cabin, boot, underbody and under-bonnet areas are all sealed and protected, while our clear coat is brought to a mirror shine. Final Reassembly Fun time! A shiny shell with brand-new parts bolted on - what could be better! Protective covers are fitted over the body with any trim parts covered, and then any safety-critical fixings are replaced, fluids filled, and suspension and lights aligned before the final torque checks are applied to finish the reassembly. Then it's the setting up of the fuelling system and ignition timing, followed by the electrical system testing and.... vrooom! Sign Off Mileage testing is then carried out. Look, we built it so we deserve to drive it... maybe to the shops... the cinema even. This is probably the most important part. We will drive the car to bed everything in and double-check everything is good to go. Following this shakedown, the vehicle is re-inspected, it gets one last clean and wax and then we say our emotional goodbyes the night before the handover.

Nearly top down thumbs up weather there now - Lyons Garages Classic Car Restoration and Servicing Specialists

Details: 25.May

The last couple of months have disappeared faster than my old-fashioned cocktails. I’ll tell you what lads, it’s great to have a few fellas around to do all the work. Leaves me plenty of time to work on the important things… like my tan, and what car I’d like next.

I joke, I joke. Sure nothing would get done if I wasn’t here. Couldn’t leave the lads in the garage for a second. They’d be off making tea at 11 am and then heading off for lunch at 1 pm. They’re lucky I’m here to act as sheriff. Actually, you’re right, police jokes aren’t funny. I’ll give it arrest.

Anyways, thanks for coming, I suppose I better tell everyone what we’ve been up to! You’d nearly think we’ve gone off the radar because of the tax man or something. Ha. Ha. *cough

No, no. Everyone knows that we’re pretty much in exam season, so what better time was there to do some… tests! I know right? We were testing out new colours and designs for a few cars, but I promise I’ll give more on that later. Trust me, sure I never lie.

In the garage, things are looking well and the work is tipping 90. At times, it might have even tipped 92. We’ve got a red MGB Roadster shell awaiting some paint, thinking metallic red with a biscuit interior or metallic grey with a wine interior.

Plenty of minis just awaiting paint as well, as well as our own de-seamed mini. It’s going to have a sunroof, and custom rear lights… we like subtle changes in design. Since you last visited a couple of MG’s have passed through, and even a convertible Mini. Busy times! As Spiderman’s Uncle Ben once said, “With bigger garage, comes great responsibility”.

Le Facebook page has been updated, and I remembered the password for el Instagram so I threw up a picture or two. I won’t tell you how many, I’d only ruin the surprise.

I was asked what the busiest month of the year will be… I said, “It’s gonna be May”. It’s like how boybands sing the word me. So that’s why it’s funny. Gettit? Gawd lads, if I have to explain all of my jokes.

Oh! Did I even tell ye about the new garage?! So we’ve now got dedicated areas for stripping out cars, bodywork, mechanical work, a new HUGE spray booth, polishing and an area for rebuilding. The lads keep asking for a place to eat their lunch. They’re gas!

I’m keeping this short and sweet like a donkey’s gallop as we’re our traditional flat out here. But photos will keep going up as usual. Mind yourself there now, big few weeks ahead.

Nearly top down thumbs up weather there now

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