Metal Garages

For classic car enthusiasts, restoring a classic car can be an exciting and satisfying endeavor, but it can be an expensive hobby, too. From availability of certain models to purchasing replacement parts, the cost to restore a classic car can quickly rise. Fortunately, there are several kinds of classic cars that are affordable enough to restore, without breaking the bank.

If you’re looking to restore a classic car in your VersaTube garage, we’ve compiled a list of 5 of the most affordable cars to restore.

Chevrolet Nova '69-'70

For those who are just starting out in car restoration, a Chevy Nova is one of the best cars to start with. Since millions were made, finding one to restore won’t be difficult. Also, the parts for it are significantly lower than other parts, making it one of the most affordable cars to restore. It’s also incredibly low maintenance and has many upgrades available to make it even more drivable.

The only word of caution is to avoid getting a 4-door Chevy Nova. Numerous reports show that there isn’t a very high demand for them, so restoring one may not be worth the expense.

Ford Mustang ’64-’68

Ford Mustangs are another ideal beginner car for those just starting out in car restoration. Thanks to its extensive fanbase, parts and accessories are incredibly easy to find online and elsewhere and there’s a huge amount of resources and support from experts who restore these cars for a living. So, not only is finding a Mustang restoration project super easy, it’ll be super affordable, too.

Oldsmobile Cutlass ’68-’72

While not quite as powerful as an Olds 442, Oldsmobile Cutlasses are a bit easier to find, still look and ride great, and are certainly more affordable to restore than their more expensive counterparts. Chassis parts can be easily interchanged with all GM A-body vehicles, so finding inexpensive suspension and brake parts won’t be a problem at all. You may have some issues finding exterior body and trim parts, as they aren’t reproduced as much as others, but it’s not impossible to find the parts you need with a diligent search. Even with this, it’s still one of the more affordable classic cars to restore.

Dodge Chargers ’68-’70

Probably the most popular muscle car, Dodge Chargers are easy to restore. There’s no shortage of affordable parts available and, like Ford Mustangs, a huge fan base means there’s a wealth of resources and experts to turn to when restoring a Dodge Charger. You may also want to pick up a copy of  “Project Charger: The Step-by-Step Restoration of a Popular Vintage Car” by Larry Lyles, a step-by-step guide to restoring this classic car. Despite being for a 1970 Dodge Charger, the tips and tricks covered in this book are applicable to many other kinds of restoration project cars as well.

Although they’re a little more expensive to restore than the other cars on this list - especially when the motor size increases - due to its popularity, you’ll never have a problem reselling it if you restore it well. And if you’re a big fan of this classic Dodge Charger yourself, then it’ll be worth the slightly higher cost.

Packards ’51-’54

If the Fifties are more your style, consider restoring a Packard. Like the Oldsmobile Cutlass, body and trim parts aren’t the easiest to find, but thanks to vast club support, you’ll be pointed in the right direction to find the part you need. Aside from that, almost all electrical and mechanical parts can be bought brand new, and for affordable prices, too. And like the Dodge Charger, resale won’t be a problem due to its large fan base. But if you’re a Packard fan, restoring the car for yourself won’t completely drain your wallet, either.

The only model to avoid, however, is the Caribbean; it’s too expensive. If you want a Packard without the high cost, go with a different model.

No matter what classic car you choose to restore, a VersaTube garage is a great place to do it. Not only are our garages affordable, but they are also durable and will protect your classic car restoration project, parts, and tools from all kinds of damaging weather. You can even design your ideal car restoration garage with our design-your-own-structure tool. If your classic car restoration is the only DIY project you want to take on, there are many contractors available to construct your VersaTube garage for you. Contact us today to get started.