A useful restoration budget is a range built from the specific vehicle, finish line and evidence. Add purchase, transport, body, mechanical, electrical, paint, interior, parts, freight, tools and specialist work, then apply a visible contingency.
Garage checklist
- Choose the finish line
- Separate known work from unknowns
- Price delivered parts
- Include tools and specialist trades
- Use low, likely and high scenarios
- Compare every scenario with the available budget
The finish line changes the number
A running fixer-upper, roadworthy daily driver, factory restoration and restomod are different projects. Write the finish line first so every quote and task can be judged against the same outcome.
Delivered cost beats part price
A cheap overseas part can become expensive after local collection, packing, freight, duty, tax and return risk. Compare the delivered figure and the evidence that it fits.
Contingency is not spare money
The contingency covers work the current evidence cannot price. Keep it visible. If it is consumed by upgrades before the unknowns are resolved, the project is already over budget.
Limits and safety
The calculator is a planning aid, not a quote. Labour, rust, freight, exchange rates and parts availability can change materially.
Evidence and sources
- Owner quotes, inspected evidence and dated supplier prices
- Vehicle-specific workshop information