For those who want to start not just from ‘scratch’ when it comes to buying a classic, but from dent, hole, rust and missing as well, here are four restorable gems just waiting to be discovered… plus one fully restored and very rare car – to inspire you.
Porsche 356 Coupé: Asleep since 1969
This 1952 Porsche 356 coupé has been in storage for 44 years but, importantly, it’s said to be a ‘matching numbers’ car with a fully documented history, including servicing bills.
Buy this Porsche 356 in the Classic Driver Marketplace >>
Jaguar XK140 Fixed Head Coupé: Starting point
The bad news is that it’s missing its engine and transmission. The good news is that, as a result, the Californian seller doesn’t expect a high price for this elegant 1956 classic.
Buy this XK140 FHC in the Classic Driver Marketplace >>
Maserati Mistral: Looking to meet…
This time it’s just a bodyshell and two axles: no other parts at all. But we’re told the metalwork is in good condition so, if you know someone with a rusted Mistral that desperately needs a replacement body, hey presto!
Buy this Mistral in the Classic Driver Marketplace >>
Mercedes-Benz 300 Cabriolet D: Almost there?
If the thought of buying a car that hasn’t been touched for decades is a bit intimidating, why not acquire a part-finished restoration? Particularly one that’s had specialist input and that can – with a favourable wind – be completed fairly quickly? This 1952 Mercedes could be just the thing.
Buy this Mercedes in the Classic Driver Marketplace >>
Bugatti Type 57 Ventoux: The end result
To inspire you, here’s a fully restored Bugatti – and no ‘ordinary’ Bugatti at that (if such a thing exists). According to Artcurial, which is offering the car at auction on 10 June, this 1938 Ventoux was ‘one of the last 10 examples of this model to be built’ and ‘the last Bugatti delivered before the War’. With the best specialist restorers – such as master coachbuilder Henri Chapron from Levallois – involved in its rebirth, it demonstrates how stunning a finished car can be. And it’s offered at ‘no reserve’, too.
See this car’s auction listing on Classic Driver >>
Text: Charis Whitcombe (Classic Driver)
Photos: Classic Driver Dealers
