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Article: Resto-Mods--Choose-wisely-grasshopper-
Companies like Speedster Motor Cars and K.A.R Auto Group are gaining market share by combining the best of both worlds; old car styling and modern conveniences like air conditioning and power seats. Other companies are recreating cars that are just not available in the market at any price. Got to love entrepreneurship.
Further evidence of this trend was spearheaded by Ford with the GT and the retooled Mustang. GM is a bit late to market but the new Camaro looks fun. Again the magic formula old lines with modern conveniences and yes I did repeat myself.
Even the car shows and concours events have a resto-mod category. Check this event out. One huge factor that contributes to the market change is the unavailability of original parts..thanks to town ordinances and the EPA crack down on salvage yards. Foreign reproduction parts shown at SEMA just do not make the grade.
Buying a Resto-Mod or Custom
Buyer beware. Unless you’re a restoration professional or a well seasoned collector it can be difficult to evaluate the level of workmanship and quality of base parts and components used. Body work and nice paint job can cover many imperfections. You may never find out what is underneath until you have a fender bender.
Resale
The great thing about a customized vehicle or resto-mod is that you can add any option, color combination or widget your heart desires. The problem comes when you decide to sell. You need to find the right person with similar tastes and pockets almost as deep as yours. Yup you guessed it “The proverbial needle in a haystack.” Oh did I mention be prepared in most cases to take a loss and in some cases a huge loss. The best way to look at it is "I had fun with my pride and joy and the bath I am taking now is just the cost of owning a customized car". Sounds a bit like buying a boat doesn't it. Been there, done that and got the t-shirt!
Remember do your homework, ask lots of questions choose carefully.
Shane Corliss writes freelance articles for the automotive industry and maintains a blog at route66classifieds.com/wordpress/ .
He also owns Route66Classifieds.com. |
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