Monday, February 25, 2013

Vintage & Exotic Auto Restoration - How to Pick the Right Restoration Shop - FZ Restoration






How to Pick the Right Restoration Shop

Let's face it-not all of us have the tools, skills and space to restore a muscle car by ourselves. Where does this leave us? There are hundreds of restoration professionals out there who can tackle even the rustiest hulk of a formerly glorious car. Before you can choose a restoration shop, you've got to decide what you want the finished car to be (Concours-winning show car, or simply a nice driver?) and how much money you can spend to get it to that point.

When you finally own a restoration-worthy car, you'll have to determine if you can perform any aspects of the rebuild yourself, or if you'll have to farm out the entire project to specialists. If you reason that restoration is out of your league, the next step becomes the homework you'll have to do in order to pick a restoration shop that will deliver the finished product you envision while remaining close to your budget and time schedule.

"Talk to other people at car shows," "Pick a car like the one you want to restore, or one that appeals to you. Talk with the owner about the restoration, and find out if any other cars at the show were done by the same restorer." You may learn of shops that specialize in GMs, Fords, Mopars or AMCs, but they aren't automatically your best choice-the best will be restorers who do the most careful and thorough work.

You'll have to do a fair amount of research; call a variety of shops and speak with the owner or principal restoration specialist. Talk with them about your vision of the completed car, and ask them what they have to offer. A good shop manager will be more than happy to discuss his experience and restoration techniques, and will do the same for any of his employees. It's also important to learn if the shop stores all cars being worked on indoors, and if they carry enough insurance to cover all vehicles in the shop.

As you visit prospective restoration shops, you should pay attention to the appearance of the facilities and the equipment with which it is furnished. If you've got a car that will require extensive metal fabrication, look to see if they have a metal brake, an English wheel, a shrinker/stretcher and a bead roller, among other important metalworking tools. They should also have a blast cabinet, a lathe, and a half-ton press as well as gas and MIG welding equipment. Organization and adequate space are also important in a shop.

"When you're working on a car, it's often hard to keep the work space clean, but it's important that there is room to work on a car and good access to the parts and equipment that will be needed.

The reputation of a shop is extremely important, as is the satisfaction of its former customers. "Stop in the local parts store and ask the guys how (the restoration shop is). They'll always tell you-they never pay on time, or, they're great guys who do good work." Contacting old customers is also a smart bet. "A restoration shop should be willing to give you the phone numbers of previous clients," "You should talk to those clients about what was done to their cars, and look at (the work) if possible."

You will sometimes come across shops that advertise both collision work and auto restoration. While most restoration professionals focus solely on restoration work, some shops combine it with collision repair. Some restorers caution against using a combination shop, arguing that collision expertise isn't restoration expertise and that prompt work and attention to detail can suffer.

When you feel comfortable with a shop, it's important to discuss all the particulars of the costs that occur during a restoration. You're talking $2,000 to $3,000 per car just for paint, primer and painting supplies. I have a 1970-1/2 Z/28 in here now that's going to cost $10,000 just to paint. You have to understand, these are projects that can take four to five months to finish. It's not like Mrs. Smith, whose Honda Accord gets smacked up and it's gone from here in three days."

When you've chosen your restoration shop, get a written estimate for the labor, materials and parts required for the project, but remember that estimates are subject to change. "It's difficult to figure an exact price on any restoration," You've got to be prepared to spend more money, a car's restoration may end up costing many times its value. A shop that specializes in your car may change a flat rate, with a clause for extra charges due to unforeseen additional work, while a general restorer may charge for labor, materials and parts separately. A deposit is often required to secure services and begin the parts ordering process.

Be aware that better restoration shops will often have substantial waiting lists, ranging from months to years.

"Any good restoration shop will be booked for at least a year,". "If you can get into a shop right away, you should question the quality of its work.

Once a restoration begins, most good restorers want to remain in touch with the car's owner to allow progress updates as well as to keep abreast of potential financial issues. If the shop you've chosen isn't within reasonable driving distance, be sure to ask for detailed photographs on a regular basis. Who knows-maybe your car will become the next HMM restoration profile feature!
source:
Feature Article from Hemmings Muscle Machines

 
 

Saturday, February 23, 2013

Vintage & Exotic Auto Restoration - Collectable and Restorable Ferrari 365 GT 2+2 - FZ Restoration Livermore




Ferrari 365 GT 2 + 2 Buyers Guide



Maintenance,  Reliabiltiy & Known Issues


There are several common issues found on many 365 GT 2+2s.  Build quality varied from car ot car and rust is an almost universal problem. Given the severity of the rust problem, checking the body for filler is highly recommended.  Many 365 GT 2+2 suffered from inadequate maintenace at some stage in their lives so reviewing service history is important.  Many also have been subjected to some restoration work so reviewing the quality of work done is important. Several other areas that should be checked are:

  • Check the tension on the timing chains.  It can stretch to the point where it will jump a tooth leadin gto dire consequences for the valves.
  • Very weak 2nd gear synchros
  • Paint work is fragile
  • Koni self leveling suspension can collapse
  • All things electrical
  • Connections corrode and motors wear out
  • Camshaft wear
  • Valve clearances
Other potential issues:

  • Poor oil circulation, blown oil filters
  • All gauges have a tendency to be both unreliable and inaccurate
  • Exhaust systems rust out
  • Poor engine compression
  • All hoses corrrode and leak with age
  • Accident damage and improper repair
  • Cracked brake discs, weight of the car takes its toll on the brakes
These cars need to be run regularly and service properly

Pros
  • Classic 60's style
  • A real usable Vintage Ferrari
  • Reliable engine
  • Excellent trunk space
  • Light power steering and easy to drive
  • Useable back seats, can even cary 4 adults
  • Affordable, but values are rising
  • Most maintenance can be done by the owner
  • Almost all are fitted with air-conditioning
  • Class V12 Ferrari sound
source: www.tomyang.net & www.ferrariforum.com
by Road & Track

www.fzrestoration.com

Thursday, February 21, 2013

Vintage & Exotic Car Restoration Bay Area - Restoring the World's Oldest Ferrari - FZ Restoration Livermore





 

 

Ferrari enthusiast Jim Glickenhaus has a new project: A full restoration of the world's oldest Ferrari, a 1947 166 Spyder Corsa that was the first vehicle Enzo Ferrari sold bearing his name. Why? So he can keep driving it.

Here's what Enzo Ferrari heard when he started the '47 Spyder:

The early days of the Scuderia Ferrari came about through hand-to-mouth survival. Post World War II Italy wasn't exactly pining for Grand Prix race cars, and Enzo Ferrari lacked the resources of former employer Alfa Romeo. Racing to win was Ferrari's first goal; selling cars to customers only paid the bills of the racing shop.

The basic, agreed-to facts of Ferrari's beginnings say Enzo built three chassis for racing, using a 1.5-liter, 12-cylinder supercharged engine dubbed the 125 for the displacement in a single cylinder, tied to a then-unusual five-speed gearbox. After their debut in March 1947, Enzo bored out the engines, first to 159, then to 166, the version that won the 1947 Turin Grand Prix.

From here, heads start exploding. Enzo's first sale was the car that won at Turin, numbered as car #002 in December 1947 and known as the 166 Spyder Corsa. That car was the third chassis assembled by Ferrari; the first, dubbed 01C, crashed during practice in 1947. Yet one of the models sold soon after 002, known as 001C, may have been made from some portion of 01C. The second car, after a number of race crashes, was also re-numbered and sold.

Glickenhaus, who bought the #002 in 2004 for $777,500, maintains his is the oldest surviving Ferrari, sporting its original frame, engine (still stamped "159") and gearbox among several other pieces. The 001C appeared in public for the first time in decades in 2006, with its owner claiming it as the "world's oldest Ferrari." But that 166 lacks its original engine, and uses a Ford rear differential. Despite theological levels of scrutiny and debate among Ferrari owners and historians - which Glickenhaus has spurred - no detailed exam of the 001C has emerged to show how much of Enzo's original handiwork remains.

The 166 Spyder Corsa has passed through about a dozen owners in the years since, with a few restorations; at one point its 1950s bodywork was sold for $300. Many owners of cars with half the value and none of the history of the Spyder Corsa only roll them on and off trailers. But Glickenhaus doesn't believe in trailer queens; as his Ferrari forum tag line says, "not putting miles on your Ferrari is like not having sex with your girlfriend so she'll be more desirable to her next boyfriend."

 

Keeping a 63-year-old V12 in running and historically correct condition takes a level of meticulousness that few possess or afford. Glickenhaus does, and his ability to care for Ferraris goes well beyond building the P4/5 Competizione for Le Mans. During its last removal, Glickenhaus' personal Ferrai mechanic set the timing on the engine with the little dot of yellow paint - the exact same paint used by the workers who built the engine in the Ferrari scuderia

The new project goes beyond daily care to a every-bolt restoration of the 166, to its appearance when crossing the finish line in Turin in 1947. Glickenhaus explains:

Even with our restoration the years had taken a toll on her. Her chassis was sagging which was distorting her body. Her engine was on the edge and if something went wrong we didn't want to grenade the oldest existing Ferrari engine. The same with her gearbox. Basically on the day these cars were built to last a race.

 

The valves in those 12 cylinders of history are closed by mousetrap springs, which Glickenhaus says can't be re-created to match their current state. The restoration will use coil springs and modern bearings for engine and gearbox which he says will "give them a chance to survive my driving and using this car."

The restoration has been underway in Modena, with Brandoli handling the body and SportAuto the mechanicals. Glickenhaus plans to parade the restored 166 when the P4/5 race at the 24 Hours of Nürburgring in June, following Le Mans. There's no better place for history to run again.

Restoration Photo Credit: Tad Orlowski


By Justin Hyde
 

http://www.fzrestoration.com

Friday, February 15, 2013

Car Restoration - A Couple Best Cars to Restore - FZ Restoration



1963-'65 Buick Riviera


Restoration is an expensive proposition. Even if you can perform most of the work yourself, it's still going to cost you a tidy five-figure sum to buy the necessary parts, materials and paint supplies needed to transform an old car from a worn-out relic to a dazzling show beauty.

 

If you've decided to restore a particular old car because you have a longstanding attachment to that model and are not concerned about its value or whether parts can be easily found, then we applaud you--that mindset should be the primary focus of this great hobby of ours. However, if you enjoy old car restoration but prefer your projects to be easy and relatively cheap to do--with, perhaps, the added bonus of making a few dollars on it when it's done--then these are the cars you should consider for your next venture.

 

Of course, the majority of these cars won't make you stand apart from the crowd at a show or cruise-in, but you will be able to complete their restoration far faster and a whole lot cheaper than if you chose a car that was rare, or had only been made for a few years.

 

Another factor to consider is the actual purchase price of the car. While some of the cars listed here can be bought for around $5,000, others will cost four times as much even if they're basket cases--but keep in mind that those higher-priced cars will also bring four times the money when sold, so it kind of equals out.

 

But the one common feature enjoyed by most of these cars--and the main reason why they are on this list--is that they're backed by a huge parts supply, making them a lot easier to restore than something rare like a Pierce-Arrow, a Forties-era De Soto or a V-16 Cadillac. The availability of an extensive line of reproduction parts, especially new body panels and exterior trim, makes restoring these cars incredibly straightforward. In fact, their restoration will be so uncomplicated that you'll find yourself interested in undertaking more restorations in years to come.

 

Sometimes going mainstream has its advantages.



Buick Riviera -- 1963-'65
There's no question that this is the absolute best-designed American car of the post-war era--it's simply spectacular. As a result of that fine styling, more people are starting to restore and collect these beauties. Expect to pay a premium for the 1964-'65 versions with the dual-quad carb setup, though all models are well worth restoring. Several companies are now beginning to offer reproduction parts, which will make future restorations less difficult than they are now, should your car require replacement panels and trim; reproduction seat covers and door panels are already available, and they're excellent. Restored correctly, an early Sixties Riviera will remain forever on the Most Wanted list.

Chevrolet Bel Air -- 1953-'54
If you love Fifties-era Chevys, these cars make a great alternative to the ever-popular Tri-Five models, especially as more and more Bowtie enthusiasts are starting to appreciate their handsome yet conservative looks. Reproduction parts continue to increase in selection, and the prices are very affordable. All mechanical and electrical parts are easily bought, and for reasonably low prices, while used parts are easy to come by. Disc brake conversions and other high-performance upgrades are also readily available.

 

Pontiac GTO -- 1971-'72
Even with the prices of early GTOs, especially those with Tri-Power and Ram Air-spec V-8s, beyond the price point of the average Joe, you can still own a Pontiac with those three little letters on the front grille: Just consider the 1971-'72 models. They're an extension of the reshaped A-body that bowed in 1968; apart from a few changes here and there, they still retained that menacing look of a GTO. Tons of body and trim parts have been reproduced, along with a whole host of go-fast goodies to tweak your car for better performance. This country is filled with GTO fans, so values will continue to rise, but only for factory-correct cars that have been restored well.

 

AMC AMX -- 1968-'69
Clearly the best looking of all the AMXs built, interest in these cars continues to grow as more enthusiasts realize just how special and fast they really are. You'll pay a premium for the 390-cu.in. Go Package models, but the non-Go Package 390 is equally desirable. In fact, even the smaller 343 V-8 models are now sought after, with the 290 V-8 less so. Reproduction parts are available, but the line isn't that extensive, although it continues to grow, and many mechanical parts interchange with those from the Big Three. The cars are pretty basic, so they are not hard to restore. For American Motors fans, these are considered the AMC muscle car to own, followed by the 1970 version, so there will always be a market for them.

 

Lincoln Continental -- 1961-'66
Rarely will you meet someone who doesn't like early Sixties Continentals. Their upscale, classy shape means they'll never go out of style, so there will always be a strong demand for these models. While some body and trim parts have been reproduced, there isn't an overly huge selection, although most mechanical parts can be found fairly cheaply, and pretty easily, too. It's perhaps not a car for a first-time restorer, as these were essentially hand-assembled automobiles--an experienced specialist may be needed to make it right. But just try to find a more affordable four-door luxury car that can be easily located and quickly sold, and that's fun to cruise around in with five of your buddies--we bet you can't.

 

Ford Model A -- 1928-'31
This is the Mustang of the pre-war era. Literally every part is available, including new body panels and all trim pieces. There's also a growing aftermarket of speed parts such as performance cylinder heads and five-speed gearboxes. A huge production run means lots of cars to choose from--and cheap. Support from two large international clubs means that experts ready to provide help are everywhere. Best of all, the cars' simplistic nature means that they are very easy to rebuild. Roadsters and coupes seem to bring the most money, but even a Fordor sedan has a market. Still, don't expect to make any money restoring one, because the Model A market is, and will most probably always be, a buyer's market due to their popularity and availability.

 

Packard -- 1951-'54
Fifties cars continue to climb in terms of desirability, and the absolute best-built models are those with the Packard nameplate. Aside from the Caribbean, which is too pricey to include here, these are beautifully styled cars that are very well constructed, with lots of quality detailing throughout. Nearly all mechanical and electrical parts can be bought new, and for lower prices than you'd think. Body and trim parts may be a little difficult to locate, but if you know where to look, there shouldn't be any problems; good club support means you'll be able to find what you need quickly. You'll never have a problem selling a well-restored Packard. Of course, once you drive it you may never want to sell, as the experience will make you feel oh-so-special behind the wheel.

 

Ford Mustang -- 1964-'68
Mustangs make ideal first-time projects because practically every part you'll ever need is only a catalog or website listing away. In fact, we can't think of any part that hasn't been reproduced. And there are literally dozens of companies supplying all the parts and accessories you'll need. Mustangs are also backed by excellent club support, with numerous experts everywhere. Projects are still easy to find and, when restored, early Mustangs almost sell themselves.

 

Chevrolet Camaro -- 1967-'69
Same as the Mustang: Everything you need to rebuild one, no matter how rusty it may be, is available brand new. As Terry McGean, editor of Hemmings Muscle Machines, put it, "The '69 Camaro is the '32 Ford of today," which means there will always be a huge demand for these cars. You just can't lose restoring one. Best of all, they are fun to drive, reliable, and can be made very powerful thanks to a huge aftermarket for performance parts. The only downside is that even rust buckets and rollers can no longer be had for $2,500.

 

Dodge Challenger -- 1972-'73
It's the same story as with the Plymouth 'Cuda listed later. While most Mopar fanatics seem to prefer the 'Cuda, the Challenger is actually better appointed and detailed, with a more upscale look about it. Reproduction of parts continues to grow, making even the rustiest project car salvageable. These later models with the small-block V-8s are the most affordable to buy and the easiest to find, but they sell quickly due to an ever-growing demand for E-bodies. This is one of those collector cars that must be restored to exacting factory-original standards for it to be worth anything.

 

Pontiac Grand Prix -- 1962
It seems to be every Pontiac fan's favorite Grand Prix: If you had to restore a GP, this would be the one. Its popularity never seems to wane. Basically, it's a full-size muscle car, but at half the price of a GTO--yet it, too, is powered by a 389-cu.in. V-8. Reproduction parts are increasing in availability, while every mechanical part (not to mention lots of performance parts) can be bought new, and at moderate prices. Interiors, including door panels, have been reproduced. Their handsome styling and racing heritage make these first-year Grand Prixs the ideal Sixties-era Pontiac for those seeking something different. With more than 30,000 built, they're not hard to find; as an alternative, consider the Catalina, which is a bit less expensive.

 

Cadillac -- 1965-'66
"Big, bold and beautiful" best describes these comfy land yachts, which offer perhaps the best bang for the buck of any Sixties-era collector cars. Every mechanical part is available, and at very reasonable prices, although some trim parts are hard to find. To replace body panels, you'll have to settle for used parts, but that has the advantage of being cheaper than new panels (if they were available). Engines offer plenty of power, and the spacious interiors can accommodate a family of six. Best of all, it won't cost a fortune to buy one; they're far more affordable than you might think.

 

Studebaker Golden Hawk -- 1956-'58
More than just Studebaker fans covet the classy Golden Hawk: This is one of those cars that it seems everybody wishes they could own. Plenty were built, so you should have no trouble finding one to restore. And a whole lot of body and trim parts have now been reproduced--plus, there's a good supply of NOS parts remaining. Quality construction throughout means that Golden Hawks aren't any more difficult to restore than your average Chevy or Ford. Thanks to their upscale character and show-stopping good looks, a well-restored Golden Hawk will command a premium price tag.

 

Pontiac Firebird -- 1970-'73
Early second-generation Firebirds, just like the Camaro, have become highly sought-after these last few years in response to the soaring prices of the first-generation F-bodies, which are now beyond the reach of the average enthusiast. Although the high-performance Formula and Trans Am are the most desirable models, their higher values don't make them as accessible (if you can find one for a good price, though, those would be the models to buy). There are lots of reproduction parts available, including many new body panels. The cars are easy to restore and easy to sell, assuming you restore them correctly to factory specs.

 

Chevrolet Bel Air -- 1955-'57
Due to the fact that you can buy just about every single part to build yourself a brand-new model, including all-new body shells for the '57, how could we not include the lovable Tri-Five models? The huge following of enthusiasts worldwide ensures that these cars will always sell quickly and for good money; demand for them will probably never falter, at least not in our lifetime. Thanks to being produced in large numbers, there are still many project cars available; '55 models are the most affordable. Stripped-down 210s are the cheapest, but they, too, are fast becoming very collectible--it's not just about the dolled-up Bel Airs anymore.

 

Mercury Cougar -- 1967-'68
Below the skin, the Cougar is all Mustang, which makes finding mechanical and electrical parts a breeze. But even some body panels and trim pieces have been reproduced for the early Cougar, so restoring one is not a hard proposition. Complete interiors are also available, along with tons of performance parts, brake upgrades and suspension parts. Solid club support means there's lots of knowledgeable enthusiasts to assist you, and a solid demand from both Mercury and muscle car collectors. The supply of restoration-ready cars is plentiful; also consider the 1969-'73 models, especially convertibles.

 

Oldsmobile Cutlass -- 1968-'72
While muscle car enthusiasts prefer the more expensive 4-4-2, the less powerful Cutlass offers the same great ride and inspiring good looks. Its chassis parts interchange with all the other GM A-body cars, so finding brake and suspension parts is a piece of cake, and highly affordable, too. Exterior body and trim parts haven't been reproduced to the same extent as a comparable Chevelle, but lower production numbers means that these are a lot rarer--and yet not so rare that you can't find one to restore. They're out there, and for reasonable prices, too.

 

Ford Falcon -- 1964-'65
Like the Cougar, the inner structure is all Mustang, so brake and suspension parts are pretty much the same. Lots of body, trim and interior parts have been reproduced, and the line of aftermarket parts to increase power is very large. Many Falcons were built, so they are easy to find today. And their simple design makes them a great project for the inexperienced. The models that will return the most money are the hardtop and convertibles, especially the better-performing GT versions. Also consider the earlier 1960-'63 Falcons, because many fans prefer the early, rounded shape over the later, squarer body.

 

Plymouth 'Cuda/Barracuda -- 1972-'74
Hardcore Mopar fans want the 1970-'71, while the later models, especially the 1973-'74 cars, are the cheapest to buy (and they're even cheaper with the smaller 318- or 340-cu.in. V-8s). An extensive supply of new body, trim and interior parts makes restoration a breeze. Just make sure the body isn't twisted due to serious rust, because there is no frame. In time, values will rise for the later models, as well as those small-block engine cars. Demand will always be there thanks to their good looks and wide appeal.
by Richard Lentinello
 
 

Wednesday, February 13, 2013

Vintage and Exotic Auto Body & Restoration - 10 Junkyard Cars Restored into Luxury Classics - FZ Restoration Livermore






The cars of yesteryear have a different DNA than the vehicles produced today.  They were built with metal, muscle and magnificence, a far cry from today’s disposable plastic commuters.  While metal rusts and muscle weakens, the magnificence of these automobiles doesn’t die.  These 10 cars represent some of the most amazing restored vehicles in automotive history, from Ferrari to Bugatti, BMW to Bentley.  So grab some steel wool and WD40 and hit the list below, you’ll be amazed at just how new these vintage classics look today.


1950 Ferrari 166MM Barchetta

 

A piece like this really revs the engines of modern day treasure hunters.  This 1950 Ferrari 166MM Barchetta was resting quietly in a barn in Italy before its exciting discovery, where it was purchased for the trivial sum of $8,000.  Its discovery made waves in Ferrari collectors circles, as this was the vehicle that made Ferrari an iconic brand.  After being shipped and managed by a group of resellers, the car finally sold for over $1,000,000 to collector Manny Del Arroz.  Today, this Ferrari 166M is a hot topic on vintage luxury car shows like the Palo Alto Concours d’Elegance. [via roadnoise]


1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante

 

 Over a half a century ago, this rare Bugatti disappeared shortly after its purchase by a reclusive doctor.  This 1937 Bugatti Type 57S Atalante was discovered a few years ago by the children of Dr. Harold Carr, who had recently passed on and left his garage to his family.  When they opened the garage doors, they discovered this magnificent Bugatti… and likely didn’t know what they had on their hands.  Today, Bugatti produces the fastest and most expensive production cars on the planet, but they pale in comparison to the value this one fetched at auction.  This seventy-year-old beauty was cleaned up and restored before finally being valued at $8.8 million USD.  [via autoblog]


Marcos Mantis XP


The Marcos Mantis XP isn’t just rare, it is truly one-of-a-kind.  The Mantis was built by a boutique car manufacturer in 1968, with an aim to compete in the Spa 24 Hours race in Belgium that same year.  After an unfortunate mid-race flame-out, both the car and the manufacturer didn’t last in the world of racing.  But a car this strange  couldn’t be forgotten, so a faithful restoration has returned it to its original glory.  While it spent the last several decades in disrepair, it is now an active participant in vintage races and car shows throughout the US.

1964 Porsche 911

For 20 years, this stunning 1964 Porsche 911 sat in a barn collecting dust.  While a 911 of this quality can fetch a hefty price on the collector’s market (Jerry Seinfeld paid $400,000 for one of these in 1996), this gem was purchased for not a penny more than $9,500.  After a whole lot of careful cleaning, mechanical maintenance and upgrades, it has been restored to its original 1964 glory in near-mint condition.  For a model that has been produced for over 47 years, this early version is easily one of the marque’s most beautiful.
1948 Buick Streamliner by Norman E. Timbs
 
When we first covered the 1948 Buick Streamliner by Norman E. Timbs, the article wrote itself.  “Curves like these inspire poetry”, we said, and the fact remains true.  This sixty-year-old stunner is in prime condition today, having been carefully maintained and restored to the vision of designer Norman Timbs.  Timbs was an engineer who worked on performance and racing vehicles back in the 40s, but he set out to craft his own personal car on a Buick frame.  With only $10,000 in costs, Timbs crafted a timeless automobile that looks like nothing else on the road– today, yesterday and throughout automotive history.
1934 BMW R7 Motorcycle
 
For 70 years, this amazing art-deco motorcycle was locked in a crate after its production.  In 2005, that crate was cracked to expose this automotive work of art, the 1934 BMW R7 Motorcycle.  When this R7 was removed from that crate, it looked far different than it does in these photos.  Its engine had corroded beyond function, its body had rusted nearly beyond repair, but a lot of dedication and hard work has restored this beauty to its 1934 quality.  Today, this bike stands as one of the most beautiful bikes ever built, a monument to pre-war automotive design.
 
1955 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback
 
On a list of amazing restored cars, this 1955 Bentley R-Type Continental Fastback stands alone.  This is a rare example of a luxury classic that has not been restored.  It wasn’t found in a barn, it wasn’t rescued from a junk yard, it was kept in a garage and carefully maintained over the years with all original parts and components.  It was repainted once in 1966, but since then it has been carefully preserved to remain in amazing condition.  While the other items on this list show just how much work a car restoration requires, this one is a prime example of how to carefully preserve automotive luxury.
1967 Jaguar XKE Roadster
 
This 1967 Jaguar XKE Roadster has quite a story.  It had been parked in the same location since the 1970s, which started as a simple car port.  In the 80s, the car port was enclosed with three walls leaving the front open.  In the following decade, a brick wall was erected, entombing this Jaguar without light or contact with the elements.  Recently, the last owner listed the car for sale, knocked down the brick wall and allowed the buyer to remove it.  After a good cleaning, much of the car was intact and healthy.  That thumbnail below shows how impeccable this Jag looks today, a stark contrast from the entombed mess above.
Lamborghini Miura Roadster
 
The Lamborghini Miura is one of the most sought-after vintage Lambo’s today, but this one is even harder to come by.  This Miura roadster is one-of-a-kind, a car that was produced as a promotional model for Lamborghini but never saw mass production.  It was purchased in 2007 by a New York real estate developer who carefully, faithfully restored this roadster to its 1968 condition.
 
1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia
 
 
When it comes to restored luxury cars, is there a vehicle more beautiful than this?  The 1937 BMW 328 Mille Miglia is a magnificent piece of automotive history, and you’re looking at it the way race fans did all the way back in 1937.  While this isn’t the only 1937 BMW 328, it is the same model that won the Mille Miglia race in 1940– with an average speed of over 100 mph.  This car is a design study that not only made BMW an iconic brand, but has inspired automobile professionals in the seven decades since its creation.
source: http://www.thecoolist.com/10-junkyard-cars-rebuilt-into-luxury-classics/


http://www.fzrestoration.com

Tuesday, February 12, 2013

Ferrari Restoration and Body Shop - Watch These Crazy People Drift A Ferrari Enzo On A Dirt Road - FZ Restoration Livermore








Put one F60 on a deserted set of farm roads, and you get as close as you'll ever get to a Ferrari Enzo Gymkhana video.
This video comes from TaxTheRich, the mysterious YouTube channel that brought us theoff roading Rolls Royce and the Bugatti burnout. Thye also have whipped a 288 GT0 and an F50, so I guess they're rounding out their Ferrari hypercar protfolio with this Enzo video.


source: http://jalopnik.com/watch-these-crazy-rich-people-drift-a-ferrari-enzo-on-a-130405553
by Rafhael Orlove

www.fzrestoration.com