Full Classic Car Restoration Shop

Provide complete classic car restoration services for collectors

Startup Cost
$150,000-$600,000
Difficulty
Advanced
Time to Profit
24-48 months
Profit Potential
$25,000-$125,000/month

Overview

Classic car restoration shops charge $50,000-$300,000 per complete restoration.

Completing 3-10 restorations annually generates $300,000-$1,500,000 annually with 30-50% margins after parts, labor, and overhead.

In 2025, classic cars appreciating in value justify professional restorations.

Services include complete frame-off restorations, body and paint restoration, mechanical restoration and rebuilding, interior restoration and upholstery, chrome and trim restoration, and numbers-matching documentation.

Successful restoration shops maintain skilled technicians across disciplines, source correct original parts, document work with photos, provide accurate timeline estimates (12-36 months typical), and build reputation through show-quality restorations.

Can specialize: muscle cars, European classics, or specific eras.

Marketing through classic car shows, auctions, clubs, and completed restoration portfolio.

Required Skills

  • All Automotive Disciplines
  • Period-Correct Knowledge
  • Parts Sourcing
  • Project Management
  • Documentation
  • Quality Control

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Very high project values ($50K-$300K)
  • Classic car market strong
  • Passionate collector customers
  • Show-quality work brings recognition
  • Projects can span years (steady work)

Cons

  • Extremely high skill and knowledge requirements
  • Very long project timelines (1-3 years)
  • Massive shop and equipment investment
  • Parts sourcing challenging for rare vehicles
  • Cash flow difficult during long restorations

How to Get Started

  1. Master all aspects of classic car restoration
  2. Set up comprehensive restoration facility
  3. Build network of parts suppliers and specialists
  4. Document restorations professionally
  5. Set pricing with deposits and milestones
  6. Market through classic car community
  7. Build reputation through show-quality work

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