Quote:
Originally Posted by HalcyonDays
I am interested in hearing thoughts on preservation vs restoration. Consider a rare model, Model A, in close to original unrestored condition. Some areas are, as would be expected, rough, ie. top and interior material; but it has all original parts and there is no rust. This particular car could very easily be brought back to original unrestored condition with a modest investment and searching for original materials. Conversely, it is such a solid car it could be restored to the highest level, no patch panels no fillers.
Even the rarer Model A's will come on the market occasionally, I have not seen one come on the market in this condition in the last few years since I have been search for this particular model.
I know the trend in the market is for unrestored originals. I have seen many beautifully restored examples of this model come on the market, and some very rough unrestored examples missing most, if not all of the hard to find components.
Ten or fifteen years ago, the prevailing thought would be to restore, even more so given the cars solid condition. But...they are only original once, just seems unfortunate to tamper with that.
Any thoughts?
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I can only speak from my model A ownership! I call my car, a "20 footer!" (looks great from 20ft) I am not into what others do, and I just do enough to my car to make it safe, with good seats and interior, and I drive it around town and just have fun with it. Others would find my view of keeping the car as close to original, as, not the thing to do. The point is, all us that love these Vintage Model A's have their own views, and I can tell ya regardless of full restoration or just great preservation, When I drive the old girl thru town, I draw a small crowd! Do what makes you happy and does not empty your bank account!