A classic vehicle restoration project is an investment that leads to a transformation. Some popular classic muscle cars are easy and affordable to restore. Restoration tips can help you determine which vehicle is best for your car restoration project. 

Our list of the top 10 most popular classic vehicles will help you determine which cars are the best for a restoration project, which are the easiest to restore, which models are most readily available and which have the most affordable parts.

1. Chevrolet Camaro (1967-1969)

One of the most popular classic cars to restore is a 1967-1969 Chevrolet Camaro. Chevy followed the pony car market started by the Ford Mustang with its Camaro. This compact performer is the first-generation Camaro and features every engine family among Chevy’s lineup, including the COPO-only 430-hp 427 cubic inch big-block and the 230 cubic inch inline-six. Manufacturers reproduce each part for this Camaro generation, including complete body stampings.

The first generation of Chevy Camaros comes with a rear-wheel-drive, F-body platform. Two models were built, including the convertible and the hardtop coupe. The hardtop coupe is more affordable and has more room for passengers, with two back seats and two front seats. Engine options for the first generation of Camaros included the 6.5-liter V-8 with 375 horsepower and the 3.8-liter straight-six reaching 140 horsepower.

Everything you need to rebuild a Camaro is available in brand-new condition due to the huge demand for these vehicles. If you’re looking to keep your restored car, they’re reliable, powerful and fun to drive, thanks to aftermarket performance parts. Get parts including the 1967 Chevy Camaro Molding Grille Upper and 1968 Chevy Camaro Windshield Molding Upper Inner.

2. Ford Mustang (1964-1968)

Another one of the top classic cars to restore is the 1964-1968 Ford Mustang. The Mustang was created out of a desire to make the 1960 Falcon a more enjoyable ride. The compact-class Falcon was a success because of its low cost and fuel consumption, but it needed sprucing up to be more fun. Following some failed attempts, a sport version of the Falcon was envisioned, and the Mustang entered the market, accelerating the race in muscle car production.

In its first year, more than 400,000 Mustangs were sold. Over the following decade, more than a million Mustangs were built. You may have seen the original Mustang in “James Bond Goldfinger” or the 1968 version in Steve McQueen’s “Bullitt.” 

You can find the parts you need online, and every part has been reproduced. If your dad’s Mustang is more rust than car, you can get an exact replica of the classic sheet metal and factory-spec interiors, including hardware.

3. Plymouth Barracuda (1970-1974)

Being late to enter the market worked in Chrysler’s favor. After learning from competitors’ mistakes, Chrysler launched the Plymouth Barracuda in the 1960s. The Barracuda was built with a 108-inch wheelbase two inches shorter than the Dodge Challenger, a shaker hood package and a 425-hp Hemi big-block V-8. Every Barracuda comes with a sleek look regardless of power level, and decades later, the quantity of models is still keeping classic car fans busy.

If you want the most affordable models, purchase a 1973 or 1974 with the smaller 318 cubic inch V-8s or 340 cubic inch V-8s. Restoration is easy with a huge supply of new interior, trim and body parts. Each year, more parts are reproduced for the 1970-1974 E-body Plymouth Barracuda. Parts you can get for your Plymouth include:

• Lights
• Floors
• Doors
• Grilles
• Hoods
• Mirrors
• Fenders
• Bumpers
• Interior trims
• Exterior trims
• Rocker panels
• Wheel arches or quarter panels

Values will continue rising for small-block engine cars and later models. Demand for a Plymouth Barracuda will always exist, thanks to this car’s wide appeal and good looks. 

4. Chevrolet Bel Air (1955-1957)

Love ’50s-era Chevys? You’re in luck. The 1955-1957 Chevrolet Bel Air is perfect for restoration. Reproduction parts are still increasing in production — you can easily buy all the electrical and mechanical parts you need for a restoration project. High-performance upgrades, like disc brake conversions, are readily available. Since you can find every part needed to rebuild a Chevy Bel Air, including new body shells for the 1957 model, this is a great option for a restoration project.

Bel Airs have a huge fanbase across the world, so you can quickly sell your restored vehicle if that’s why you’re taking on the project. Parts often available for a Chevy Bel Air include the Nomad Floor Plan Panel Complete Hardtop/Convertible, the Nomad Door Exterior Handle Pair and the One-Fifty Series Windshield Weatherstrip Seal Without Trim Groove. 

5. Chevrolet Impala (1965)

One of the best antique cars to restore is the 1965 Chevrolet Impala. This fourth-generation Impala was among the best-selling car in America in the mid-1960s. Most 1961-1964 Chevrolet Impalas have been turned into low-riders or customized, which makes the 1965 model the next affordable Chevy. 

The 1965 model comes with six separate taillamps and a sloping roofline. In Super Sport trim, the Impala comes with a 427 cubic inch L72 engine with a whopping 425 horsepower. 

In 1965, the Impala retired the original X-type frame for a full-width perimeter frame. The 1965 Impala was also redesigned with: 

• A pointier angled windshield
• Customized full-coil suspension
• Reshaped vent windows 
• Frameless, curved side glass

This redesign was successful, selling more than a million units in the U.S. in 1965 and becoming the best year for the classic Impala. Though reproduction parts are more plentiful for early models, even the 1965 model has plenty of available new parts. This means even the rustiest car restoration project is easy to finish. Find Impala restoration parts for the 1958-1985 models, from replacement lamp bezels to mirrors and lock kits.

6. Chevrolet Chevelle (1964-1972)

The 1960s introduced midsize vehicles that supported the muscle car movement. General Motors became a leader in identifying ways to get big sales from younger buyers. They did so by taking an affordable intermediate passenger car and giving it a powerful V-8. 

In 1963, Chevy introduced the Chevelle, riding the muscle car upswing. As a muscular option without being overly bulky, the Chevelle bridged the gap between the Chevy Nova and the Impala. The Nova was compact, while the Impala was bulkier and larger. Those who wanted a vehicle in the middle ground could choose from several body styles, including a station wagon or sport coupe.

In 1964, Chevy replaced the original 220 horsepower engine with a 327 engine that maxed out at 300 horsepower. This high-performance vehicle is available in numerous styles. With the 115-inch wheelbase, the ride is smooth and easy. The basic body formula remained consistent through 1972 with few changes. This classic vehicle is still available in abundance and supported by specialized aftermarket companies, online forums, events and clubs.

Of all the A-bodied Chevelles sold between 1968 and 1972, a large number were SS models. A portion of those came with a big-block 454 V-8. At your local car show, you’re likely to find an SS 454 with the iconic cowl induction bulged hood. The A-body’s muscular look makes it a customizer’s dream, so parts are easy to find.

The most affordable models tend to be the 1971-1972 convertible and hardtop models. Thanks to the basic construction of body-on-frame, Chevelle restorations are straightforward projects. They’ll sell quickly and at a reasonable price with this model’s many admirers.

7. Pontiac GTO (1964-1972)

If you’re looking for the best antique car to restore, try a 1964-1972 Pontiac GTO. One of the best moves Pontiac made was introducing a new muscle car concept to the world by taking the full-size Catalina’s 389 cubic inch V-8 and adding it to the midsize Tempest. Rather than compete with other pony cars like the Ford Mustang, the Pontiac GTO started a new segment of muscle cars. 

For the greatest affordability, consider a 1971 or 1972 model. If you want a GTO with the most power, go with an earlier model. Trim and body parts have been reproduced in abundance to enhance the performance of your vehicle. While values for the Pontiac GTO will keep rising for factory-correct, restored models, this classic car remains affordable for your restoration project. 

8. Dodge Charger (1968-1970)

The 1968-1970 Dodge Charger combines beauty and brawn, which is why so many enthusiasts consider this to be one of the best muscle cars of all time. For decades to come, the outstanding design of the Charger will keep this model one of the most popular classic vehicles to restore. You can obtain any mechanical part, and the list of reproduction body panels is growing every day. Rust can be a problem, as with any car from this era, but patch panels are widely available.

The amount of money and time that goes into your car restoration project depends on what condition you find the car in. But if you have time and skill, you can restore a Charger even in poor initial condition to its former glory. 

You’ll pay more for a bigger engine upfront, but this will add to the vehicle’s value when the restoration is complete. No matter which engine you choose, the Dodge Charger is one of the most iconic classic cars you’ll find. It’s fun to drive, fantastic to look at and handles well. 

9. Chevy Advance Design Pickup (1947-1954)

Chevrolet’s Advance Design replaced 1941-1947’s AK Series of pickup trucks. These redesigns were considered sleeker and more powerful, with an appealing larger body than the AK Series. If you’re restoring the exterior of this pickup, you might be going for popular, unique colors like Forrester or Juniper Green or Transport Blue. You might even find 1954 two-tone, white-top cabs.

These pickups are just as popular today as they were during their release. Whether you’re restoring to resell or want to show off your Chevy at a truck show, your project is sure to have some eyes on it. When you’re looking for restoration parts, you might see models referred to as “1947-2nd Series” and “1955-1st Series.”

10. Pontiac Firebird (1970-1973)

Perhaps the best classic car to rebuild is the 1970-1973 Pontiac Firebird. Early second-generation Firebirds are highly sought-after now that prices for the first generation have soared. Enthusiasts love the Firebird for its understated styling, great proportions and classic Pontiac power. The Firebird comes with everything, including a 400 cubic inch V-8 and overhead-cam straight six. The Firebird offers something for everyone.

While the average enthusiast may not be able to afford a first generation, the 1970-1973 models are more affordable. We recommend the Trans Am and Formula models. Many reproduction parts are available, including new body panels. Though rarer than Camaros, the strong aftermarket support means surviving Firebirds have nearly limitless potential. You can easily restore and sell a Pontiac Firebird as long as you correctly restore the model to factory specs. For a classic with a cool 70s vibe, consider a Pontiac Firebird for your next car restoration project.

Find the Parts You Need From Raybuck Auto Body Parts

At Raybuck Auto Body Parts, we provide our customers with the best quality parts and service available. We have spent decades honing our parts line down to the best offered in the industry. Now, we’re a top supplier of aftermarket restoration parts for your classic car, light duty truck, van or SUV.

When you choose Raybuck, you’ll find quality parts for fair prices and a higher level of customer service. Whether you need replacement parts for your Ford, Chevy, Jeep, Dodge or Volkswagen, we have a wide selection of quality parts to choose from. Contact us at Raybuck to find the right parts for your classic car restoration project today!

Restoring a vintage vehicle to its original shape is a great way to spend your free time. No matter what kind of cars you enjoy restoring — from Corvettes to Aston Martins to Volkswagens — it is possible to stumble upon a model that may cost more than you anticipated. To ensure you are prepared for the amount of money you’ll spend, we’ve assembled a list of the 10 most expensive vehicles to restore. 

1. 1970 Plymouth Superbird

When the Dodge Charger Daytona hit the race track in 1969, its iconic nose cone and giant wing design inspired other manufacturers to make their own version. One year later, Plymouth created the Superbird for NASCAR racer Richard Petty, who won eight races with the famous blue Superbird design. 

Plymouth produced almost 2,000 Superbirds in the United States, 135 with the 426 Hemi V8 engine. This classic racecar was known to test speed limits with its advanced tire and brake technology. While its aerodynamics were superior to many race cars during the era, NASCAR considered them a safety issue that also gave an unfair advantage. NASCAR eventually banned the Plymouth Superbird from participating in races, and Plymouth ended production soon after.

Why Is Restoring the Plymouth Superbird Expensive?

Restoring the Plymouth Superbird is expensive because of its rarity and advanced specs. Since it originated as a NASCAR racer that can reach high speeds, it may cost several hundreds of thousands of dollars to buy and restore. Richard Petty’s original car even received bids up to $3.5 million. 

The Superbird can be a dream car for any restorationist or collector. While the Superbird requires specific, expensive parts that make the restoration costly, the earnings may justify the means for those who can afford the process. 

2. 1963 Corvette Sting Ray

Chevrolet designed the fast and sporty 1963 Corvette Sting Ray to combine the characteristics of convertibles and fastback sports coupes. It was given the title by the original designer, who thought the vehicle resembled a sting ray and found that the name was a great marketing tool. This unique Corvette model incorporated many advancements, including updates in the car’s performance and handling and a hidden rear suspension under the tail. 

Why Is Restoring the Corvette Sting Ray Expensive?

Attempting to restore the Sting Ray brings on many expenses. For one, the model’s chassis and shorter wheelbase make it challenging to find parts to fix the car. The Corvette is famous for its improved steering and handling, making for a faster ride through distributed weight from the front of the car to the rear. While the vehicle experiences better traction and power steering overall, finding the correct replacement parts can be expensive. 1963 was also the only model year that included the famous rear split window.

3. 1963 Volkswagen Bus

The 1963 Volkswagen Bus is one of the most expensive vintage cars today. Volkswagen made this van with various configurations compatible with commercial use, camping trips or vacations. With additions like the bare-bones panel or the pop-top roof, the Volkswagen Samba Deluxe Microbus is still popular today. 

The Bus earned its nickname, the “23-window,” due to the added features of panoramic, curved rear, side, windshield and skylight windows throughout the design. From the iconic pivoting barn doors on the side to the recognizable two-tone color palette of classic 1960s luxury, the Volkswagen Bus was a hit among consumers everywhere. 

Why Is Restoring the Volkswagen Bus Expensive?

Restoring the Volkswagen Bus is expensive due to its size and the number of necessary parts. The 23-window version also had a much lower production run than vans without the skylight windows, which makes this particular version much more collectible. With a large sunroof, huge pivot doors and decorative trim, it takes a lot of time, energy and money to recreate the classic design. Availability of the numerous skylight windows is also an issue.

You’ll also have to take the color into account. Repainting a Volkswagen Bus requires more money overall due to its size, and it may be challenging to recreate the typical gray and white or red and brown tones the Bus is known for.

4. 1973 Pontiac Trans Am SD-455

While early Pontiacs like the Firebird were known for their signature Coke-bottle body style — similar to the Chevrolet Camaro — second-generation models from 1970 to 1981 had curvier, swoopier bodies. 

When Pontiac developed the Trans Am SD-455 in 1973, it was known for its strong cylinder block, four-bolt main bearings, functional hood and added strength and material. While early pre-production SD-455s used the 041-spec cam during testing, the 1973 units contained a cam with a 744 grind.

Why Is Restoring the Pontiac Trans Am SD-455 Expensive?

Due to the car’s rarity, the restoration process can be expensive and finding the vehicle itself can be difficult. Of all the models produced, only 252 are Super Duty models. Because Pontiac produced the Trans Am SD-455 in such small numbers, many engine parts can be challenging to find. Many of its components have become rare since Pontiac discontinued the model, making the SD-455 one of the most expensive cars ever sold.

5. Aston Martin Lagonda

The Aston Martin Lagonda is one of the most expensive vintage cars. First designed by William Towns, with four solid doors and a futuristic frame, the Lagonda is known for its unique features and digital instrumentation. Since then, the Lagonda has received a few updates to enhance its futuristic features, including rounded edges, a new nose with smaller headlights and flared body panels with full-color coding. 

The Lagonda is so rare that Aston Martin built only 25 in the United States annually. During the 1980s, manufacturers even gave the car enhancements like hi-fi equipment, a wheelbase similar to a limousine and cocktail cabinets for late-night drinks.

Why Is Restoring the Aston Martin Lagonda Expensive?

Due to the Aston Martin Lagonda’s experimental features, the vehicle is one of the most expensive cars to restore. Finding the right parts to replace the electronics and styled paneling of the frame itself can feel overwhelming if you don’t know where to look. 

Keep in mind that fixing one problem with the car may result in uncovering a few more. However, while restoring the car can cost a lot of time and money, having an Aston Martin Lagonda in your possession will be worth it.

6. Toyota MR2

Toyota produced the first generation MR2 from 1983 to 1989 and introduced several updates in the second-generation styles from 1989 to 1999. While many overlook the MR2, it has established itself as one of those refined vintage luxury cars that houses a powerful engine and quality interior parts any restorationist would appreciate. 

Despite variations introduced in the following generations — such as the MR2 Roadster in Europe and the MR2 Spyder in the U.S. — Toyota eventually discontinued the vehicle because of low sales. The MR2 is rumored to be making a comeback soon, drawing many repairers back to the vintage versions of the Toyota. 

Why Is Restoring the Toyota MR2 Expensive?

While the Toyota MR2 is a reliable vehicle with an excellent turbocharger and lightweight engine, you should still expect many expenses while repairing it. You can find a great car in good condition in most generations of the MR2. However, the Toyota’s more petite frame means little room to work on the repairs. The waterline is also uniquely placed, meaning you must invest in special tools to fix it. 

7. 1958 Chevy Bel Air Impala

The 1958 Chevrolet Bel Air Impala improved on earlier Bel Air models by including revitalized circle taillights, a two-spoke steering wheel and special extractor vents. It quickly became a popular design among other Chevy Bel Air lines of hard-top cars and convertibles. The Impala was known for its shorter stature and extended rear deck, with a longer wheelbase compared to low-price models of the same line. With bright moldings and decorative symbols on the side, many appreciated the Impala’s sculpted look and luxury feel. 

Why Is Restoring the Chevy Bel Air Impala Expensive?

Of all the cars restored over the years, the Chevy Bel Air Impala is one of the most expensive. Due to the model’s unique insignias and special molding, finding the right parts to restore the car will cost a pretty penny. The longer wheelbase also means you’ll need to invest significant research time to find pieces that fit a design that doesn’t match other Chevy Bel Airs. 

8. 1956 Mercedes 300SL Gullwing

The Mercedes 300SL Gullwing is a car that managed to circumvent post-war styles and create a luxury vehicle all its own. While the car is best known for its iconic gullwing top-opening doors, the Gullwing has also won many races across Europe and the United States. With trendsetting doors, stylish contoured panels and interior designs, the Gullwing is still one of the most influential models in the automotive industry. 

Why Is Restoring the Mercedes 300SL Gullwing Expensive?

Mercedes only produced 1,400 Gullwings from 1954 to 1956. As one of the rarest vehicles in the world, finding a Mercedes 300SL Gullwing in good condition can be a daunting task. Parts may be even more challenging to find, as Mercedes also produced many of the Gullwing’s components in small numbers. However, once you’ve completed the restoration, you may be able to sell your Gullwing for a few million dollars. While it may be expensive to restore, it’s worth the effort if you are lucky enough to find one in salvageable condition. 

9. Mercedes-Benz 600

The Mercedes-Benz 600 was made for a particular group of rich and royal owners and only produced in small quantities. Though it had the longest run of any Mercedes-Benz design, the company made fewer than 3,000 cars. This vehicle is known for a few basic frames, including the short-wheelbase Limousine, the longer-wheelbase Pullman Limousine and the convertible top Landaulet. 

The Mercedes-Benz 600 was a car for politicians, royal fleets, heads of state or industry billionaires — some notable passengers included Queen Elizabeth II, Ferdinand Marcos, Kim Il-sung and Mao Tse-tung, among many others. The luxury vehicle has spacious leg room, fantastic suspension, adjustable seats, incredible ventilation and power assistance during manual drive. 

Why Is Restoring the Mercedes-Benz 600 Expensive?

Due to its complex machinery and parts, restoring the Mercedes-Benz 600 can be costly — Mercedes built the vehicle for comfort over care for future maintenance costs. These luxury vehicles are engineered with such unique characteristics that finding replacement components can be complicated. With their complex hydraulics and power locks to the specialized sunroof and automatic doors, any restorationist will need extreme luck and skill to complete this project. 

10. 1970 Chevrolet Camaro Z28 LT1

Compared to other Camaros, Chevrolet made the Camaro Z28 LT1 with a 108-inch wheelbase, a new engine and a coupe body. It came equipped with reliable lifters, big valves, aluminum pistons and a larger rear bumper. The Camaro Z28 LT1 also had a smaller grille and large headlights that enhanced the wider hood and revised dashboard. The overall effect was a sporty luxury vehicle with specialized features — like its centralized gauge cluster — that appealed to car fans everywhere.

Why Is Restoring the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 LT1 Expensive?

Restoring the Chevrolet Camaro Z28 LT1 can be expensive due to the extreme power the vehicle requires. Finding parts that fit the body style can also be challenging, as many of the components are very rare. You’ll need to invest several thousand dollars in acquiring the car and finding the right parts for this luxury vehicle. 

Get the Parts You Need From Raybuck Auto Body Parts

At Raybuck Auto Body Parts, we provide quality autobody parts for aftermarket truck, van and car restoration projects at competitive prices. We also work hard to offer a higher level of customer service than our larger competitors. When you call us, you’ll reach a live person who can give you personalized assistance. 

Whether you’re restoring a Mercedes-Benz 600 or a Chevy Bel Air Impala, our salespeople know the parts you need and can help you through the restoration process. At Raybuck, you can find specialized parts for even the most expensive projects. Contact us today to speak to a representative or call us at 800-334-0230.

If you’re looking for cheap old cars to restore, it may be time to consider some of the unique variations of Pontiac cars or the classic design of the Ford Mustang. Whatever you choose, research each part carefully to decide whether the rebuilding process will be straightforward and suitable for your budget. While some classic cars can be relatively expensive to repair, some cheap options make it easier to start the restoration process.

Explore 10 of the best cheap cars to restore below.

1. Pontiac Star Chief (1954-1966)

Among the cheapest cars to rebuild is the Star Chief. Made between 1954 to 1966, the Star Chief balanced between a full-size car with a luxury feel and a light, compact frame. With signature chrome suspenders and the iconic Silver Streak trim along the trunk and hood, the Chief’s long wheelbase and unique design stood out among Pontiac variations.

Restorationists may also enjoy working with the Pontiac’s engine, which links the machinery of the Sloan-era Pontiac with the Excitement Division design.

Why Restore the Pontiac Star Chief?

While the Pontiac Star Chief is on the higher end of the classic car price range, you can still find a running car for around $4,000. The attractive post-war design with unique fins and ornamentation of the early 1960s makes the Star Chief a great car to restore. Enjoy the V-8 options with solid horsepower and all of the available parts to enhance the vehicle.

2. Pontiac Trans Am (1978-1981)

The Pontiac Trans Am is a notable classic of the highways, high school lots and racetracks. From television shows to famous movies, the car has found its way into all parts of American culture, making it one of the best cars to restore when you also consider the cost to do so.

With many notable additions and elements, as well as the sleek signature curves and raw horsepower of the late 1970’s engines, the Trans Am has excellent street performance, refined handling and beautiful style. From the iconic General Motors, the Trans Am solidified itself in history as one of the most memorable cars of all time. 

Why Restore the Pontiac Trans Am?

The Pontiac Trans Am is a popular classic car, offering you a piece of history that will impress other collectors. What’s better is that it’s economical to restore this vehicle, as many people sell parts and accessories from the period that will fit the Trans Am perfectly. The models from 1978 to 1981 are both budget-friendly and reliable vehicles to work on.

3. Oldsmobile Cutlass (1968-1972)

While the Oldsmobile Cutlass has a conservative design, the reflective material across the back of the car makes it a unique model. With a well-designed dashboard and stylish air vents, the Cutlass comes with live cruise controls on the steering wheel, antilock brakes and dual airbags, making it a great classic with a modern feel. Many collectors enjoy the Oldsmobile Cutlass for its comfortable interior and competent mechanics.

Why Restore the Oldsmobile Cutlass?

This popular vehicle is affordable among classic muscle cars, and many full models still exist on the market in decent shape. While the Oldsmobile is known for its luxury design and comfortable interior, making it a popular option, it’s not so rare that you can’t find one or the original parts in good condition.

Many of the Cutlass chassis parts are interchangeable with other General Motors’ A-body type cars from similar eras. This means purchasing brake and suspension parts is easy and affordable. This rare classic comes reasonably priced and will be a great addition to your restored car collection.

Just remember that exterior or trim parts may not have been reproduced as much as in other models, making them more difficult to locate.

4. Ford Mustang (1979-1993)

The Ford Mustang is one of the cheapest cars for repair work you can find. With light materials, a small engine and excellent aerodynamics, the Mustang is famous for its fuel mileage, fewer emissions and classic design. From the 1979 Pace Car to the 1982 debut of the 5.0-liter HO, the Mustang’s engine boasted a new GT with 225 horsepower capabilities in the 1987 to 1993 models.

Many Ford Mustang parts are easy to find on the market, with the car reasonably priced depending on the model. This makes it a great collectible and another fantastic restoration project. The straightforward design and mechanisms also mean repairing the vehicle is easier than ever.

Why Restore the Ford Mustang?

The Ford Mustang has a design that’s aged well, and you’re sure to get your money’s worth for a car that has been produced many times. It’s also easy to find videos or manuals and a large abundance of replacement parts and machinery to help you repair the vehicle.

Whether you plan to contact local experts or restore the car yourself, you can check websites or local catalogs for spare parts and community support. Restored Mustangs are known to sell themselves once you’ve put in the effort of making one look as good as new.

5. Chevrolet El Camino (1978-1987)

The Chevrolet El Camino was first produced in 1978. With an iconic style, suspension and wheelbase inspired by the Malibu station wagon design, the vehicle offered sheet metal doors, front bumpers and a unique chassis when it first came onto the market. This vehicle eventually stopped being produced in 1987. Though interest in the El Camino eventually waned, people have started to look to the car again for restoration purposes.

Why Restore the Chevrolet El Camino?

Because the Chevrolet El Camino has such a distinctive look and a popular G-body platform, it’s one of the cheapest cars to repair. Over the years, the car has become a notable fixture in TV shows and movies — the epilogue movie for “Breaking Bad” is even called “El Camino.” If you’re interested in restoring a more unique-looking car that has regained its popularity, the El Camino could be the best option for you.

6. Buick Electra 225 (1971-1976)

If you’re looking for a car with a large engine, emission reducers and a machine that cuts back on horsepower, restoring the Buick Electra 225 may be an excellent project. The Electra is easy to steer and drive on back roads or highways for the repairer who enjoys cars with more modest components. The seats make for a comfortable road trip with friends or family, with interior wood trim and stylish chrome edging, and the Buick Electra 225 is known for its quality sound and interior speakers.

Why Restore the Buick Electra 225?

When looking at cheap cars for repair, the Buick Electra 225 ensures you’ll get an excellent vehicle for a low amount of money. With more interior room to work with, this General Motors classic allows you to replace more parts to create a luxury feel. Compared to earlier versions of the 224, some of which featured a convertible drop-top, these later models offer you a more affordable chance at restoring one of these classics.

7. Studebaker Lark (1959-1964)

The Studebaker Lark offers an excellent opportunity to find spare parts and update your technical understanding of classic cars. With such a massive stockpile of old parts that went to resellers after manufacturers halted production, it won’t be hard to find parts today at a reasonable price.

Though the Studebaker Lark is sometimes forgotten among car repairers, it exists in the same market as other compact cars like the Falcon, Chevy Nova and the Dart. The Lark has received a few makeovers throughout its run, with the first generations from 1959 to 1964 standing out among the others.

Why Restore the Studebaker Lark?

Restoring a Studebaker Lark can be a great conversation starter, as many markets don’t offer these cars fully repaired, and you may be able to find one in good shape. With a few thousand dollars in hand, you can purchase one in decent condition and find some extra parts to get started. This is a truly unique car to round out your restoration lineup.

8. AMC Rambler Marlin (1965-1967)

For those familiar with the Tarpon, the AMC Rambler Marlin has a similar style and frame, sitting a few inches higher with a 112-inch wheelbase. With a notable fastback roof, rear fenders and an iconic grille and hood ornament, the AMC Rambler Marlin seats six people and is known for its durable suspension and reclining seats.

Why Restore the AMC Rambler Marlin?

Restoring the AMC Rambler Marlin allows you to work with fastback glass and interchangeable engine capabilities. Because many Marlins have gone through engine swaps, it’s possible to try several mechanisms underneath the hood and see what happens. While there isn’t a big collector market for the AMC Rambler, this is your chance to build a following for the classic car and add a unique vehicle to your restored car collection.

9. Dodge Dart (1963-1966)

The Dodge Dart has seen five different body designs throughout its run but is most iconic for its four-door sedan, two-door sedan and two-door hard-top versions. From convertibles to station wagons, the Dodge Dart has three trim designs and a frame that’s overlooked compared to other classic cars. First-generation Dodge Darts are primarily known for their timeless three-box American design.

Regarding restoration, the Dodge Dart made between 1963 to 1966 has an appealing, unique look and a sophisticated feel unmatched by other versions. Because the Dart shares many parts and underpinnings with later vehicles, it’s easy to find the mechanics for the restoration process.

Why Restore the Dodge Dart?

Because the market for Dodge Darts is still relatively untouched compared to other muscle cars from the era, it’s easy to find extra parts for restoration. You can find parts for the engine or the car for under a few thousand dollars and many of the six-cylinder versions of the Dart for a very low price.

10. Pontiac GTO (1971-1972)

The Pontiac GTO is one of the last classic muscle cars from the era and has a lot going on in terms of engine power, style and performance. The V-8 engine is known to be reliable. The frame and design of the GTO have a very bold appearance that makes it stand out from other muscle cars. Many old advertisements claim that the Pontiac GTO is one of the fastest Pontiacs ever made.

Why Restore the Pontiac GTO?

Aside from being classic muscle cars, many models from 1971 and 1972 are affordable and easy to find. While this specific era might mean you miss out on the power of earlier Pontaic models, it still offers an excellent opportunity to update the vehicle. The GTO is known to be a popular and sought-after classic among restoration enthusiasts, so you’re sure to find the repair process rewarding even if you don’t end up selling it when you’re done.

Get the Right Parts for a Great Price From Raybuck

When you’re venturing into the restoration process, Raybuck Auto Body Parts is here to help you find a variety of reliable parts for a great price. Our company was established in 1985 and has since built a reputation for offering quality parts for restoration or replacement needs. Our reliable sales team can help you find the right products at competitive prices to help you maintain and restore your classic cars.

Contact us today to speak to a representative about our automotive parts selection or call us at 800-334-0230.