Q: Client asks: “I’ve purchased a rust free 1967 Sunbeam Alpine recently with the intention of restoration. It doesn’t need much; paint, carpeting, and soft top. I haven’t started on it yet, but would like to determine how much time I should devote to it because of the economic times we’re in. Whom would you suggest I contact to see what the value of the vehicle might be at this point?”
A: We use Hagerty’s Cars that Matter Price Guide. I can give you an idea of what it is worth. Obviously, we hope you’ll want to insure the car with us, and our customer service number for the insurance side is 800 922 4050. #3 condition (which is broadly what you are describing it as at this time) is $20,300; #2 condition (which it sounds like you ought to be able to bring it up to with perhaps $5000) is $28,700. According to those figures, it seems to be money well spent as long as you carefully manage the cost of the restoration and keep an eye on values. We always recommend that you buy the car you like and enjoy owning it. It’s very hard to make money buying cars and restoring them.