Hi, I just wanted to know if I was way in over my head. I won a ‘67 Impala at an auction and although I am still super excited to have won it, I am unsure if it was worth it. It’s essentially a shell. The odometer has a low mileage (11k) however is missing a transmission & motor. It needs new tires & a real good paint job in addition to new interior. I would love for this to be a passion piece and work on it over the course of a couple years despite not knowing much about cars in general. I will say I didn’t spend an egregious amount on it but probably more than I should ($750). Worth it, or absolutely not?
Whether winning the '67 Impala was worth it depends on your individual circumstances, goals, and resources.
Pros:
Low purchase price: $750 is a good deal for a classic car project, even in rough shape.
Low mileage: The odometer reading suggests the car wasn't driven much, potentially indicating fewer underlying issues.
Passion project: Working on and restoring a classic car can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience.
Learning opportunity: You can learn new skills and gain valuable knowledge about cars through the restoration process.
Cons:
Extensive work required: Missing a motor, transmission, tires, and needing paint and interior work means a significant investment in parts, labor, and time.
Cost: Restoration costs can easily spiral out of control, exceeding the initial purchase price several times over.
Lack of car knowledge: Starting with limited knowledge can make the project more challenging and potentially lead to costly mistakes.
Time commitment: Restoring a car takes dedication and consistent effort over a long period.