|
Welcome to
Midlife Classics!
Midlife Classics is a full-service restoration and support facility dedicated to the restoration, preservation and enhancement of performance-oriented automobiles from the 1950s through mid 1980s. We handle all levels of restoration - from the daily driver to concourse-ready autos. While we are more than willing to restore nearly any make and model, the primary focus is on sportscars and musclecars - both foreign and domestic.
That being said, experience has shown that a vast majority of people who yearn for a classic car really want something between a daily driver and a showcar. What they often desire is a very nice looking and mechanically sound vehicle that they aren't afraid to take out on the road occasionally (or regularly) without having to worry about getting a rock chip or door ding in their $10,000 paint job. They also don't want to take out a second mortage or forgoe their childrens' education in order to have the car of their dreams. Many of them aren't mechanically inclined or just don't want to bother with finicky cars, so they don't want to worry about whether it's going to start, run, turn or stop every time they want to take it out.
So, at Midlife Classics, in addition to offering show-quality restorations, we strive to make classic car ownership a reality for every automotive enthusiast. We do this by working closely with you to determine exactly what it is that you want your classic to be and what you plan to do with it. This is accomplished via a thorough interview (in person, via phone, or email) covering nearly every aspect of your project. An evaluation of the project car leads to an estimate or a guaranteed quote (see guaranteed final cost option). From that point, the project can be tailored to fit your budget - either by compromising in some areas (like retaining wearable parts that are within tolerances rather than replacing them or not rechroming parts that are in acceptable condition) or by opting for some upgrades (such as better suspension components or a nicer interior).
Classic Support
Midlife Classics can provides ongoing support for your classic. Whether it's our "Return To Service" project for the car that has been sitting for years, or repairs ranging from minor to major, we will treat your baby like it was one of our own.
Classic Upgrades
Not satisfied with your classic as delievered from the factory? Midlife Classics can provide upgrades ranging from an electronic ignition system to modern heat and A/C, four-wheel power disc brakes, and even installation of a more modern drive train. If you're not concerned with 100% originality, why not consider making your classic the way YOU want it.
|
|
We Can Find the Car You Want and Restore It For You
So, maybe you want a restored classic, but you don't have a project car. That's no problem. Nearly any car you might want can be found in restorable condition. Believe it or not, this can be an advantage. All too often, people buy a classic with the intention of having it restored. Unfortunately, they often don't have enough experience in buying classics (or emotion takes over) and wind up paying more for a project car than they should. By the time the cost of the restoration is added in, they're financially upside-down in the car. That's not only a bad investment, but it can make it very difficult to gain the approval of your spouse or significant other. At Midlife Classics, you can tell us what you want, and we can tell you what it's going to cost to get you behind the wheel.
Guaranteed Final Cost Restoration
If you've been reluctant to have a car restored because you've heard horror stories about escalating costs, we've got a solution for you. Midlife Classics offers a Guaranteed Final Cost option. In addition to a detailed interview, it requires a thorough inspection and evaluation of the project car at the Midlife Classics facility. A follow-up interview to discuss the condition of the project car and a suggested course of action will lead to a written quote that is guaranteed to be your final cost. Of course, any mid-project changes that alter the scope and/or cost of the project will require your written authorization. The inspection, evaluation and preparation of the written quote takes two to four weeks and will set you back $1,000. However, if you decide to go ahead with the project, the $1,000 fee will be credited towards your final cost. Also, the inspection process includes a thorough steam cleaning of the engine compartment and undercarriage (a $150 value).
How Long Does it Take?
This is the million dollar question. And, with many shops, as the months (or even years) go by you'll start thinking it's going to cost that much. But, remember that quality can't be rushed.
That being said, let me emphasize that quality work is the first priority. While you'll see the word "we" used throughout this publication, Midlife Classics is a nearly one-man operation. Nearly all the work done on your car will be done by me, Bob Carroll, President, CEO, Janitor and they guy you're going to reach on the phone when you call to check on the progress of your project. That may seem small-time (well, maybe it is), but it's the result of being very picky about anything I put my name on and having so-called "professionals" screw up work on just about everything I've ever put in the hands of others. The "we" includes the person who takes care of my administrative nightmare and parts searches as well as the occasional contracted assistance needed to help with heavy and/or extremely boring work (a guy can only do so much sanding).
So, you're not going to see your finished car back in a few weeks. The time required will, of course, depend on the scope of the project. Don't expect any complete restoration to take any less than three months. Most can be done in under six months depending on the availability of parts. The one promise you will get is that every effort will be made to give you a reasonable estimate of the time requirements and you will not hear "it will be ready in two weeks" every two weeks.
|
