I need help deciding whether to restore my 1983 Z

[Gigi280zx]

Pls help. I am emotionally attached to this car, and it is currently in dire need of an overhaul. Approx 100K miles and once well-loved. How would I start to figure out costs and how do I choose someone to handle this project for me, should I decide to go forward. I believe the engine is good, however it hasn't been used in some time. Of course, needs tires, and needs body work, only one dent but paint is aging, interior work as well. Has some rust and has been outdoors for about 2+ years now ( previously garaged, but came upon hard times ). Pls help me decide whether to sell it, donate it or restore it.

thanks !!:eek:

[Sailor Bob]

Gina - There is no accounting for how much emotional attachment is worth, only you can decide that, but there is a way to asses the value of your car and determine if it is worth the effort (and cash) of restoring. I recommend you go over the car realistically and write down it's strong points and negatives. Determining this will give you a start point to compare it to other cars that are similar and currently for sale. You may find a quick look at ebay or Craigslist will put it in perspective very quickly.

A major point to concider is whether or not you are capable of doing some of the work yourself. If you are not, then you are at the mercy of the people who seek to offer you help (?) - by this method you would be far better off to just go to the market and buy a similar car in better condition. Body work and a paint job done half decent will cost about enough to get a fair to good 83.

There is however no accounting for emotional attachment. Your call.

Good luck