Inquiry

[buzz_42]

I have a question.

1953 Cadillac Limousine
1 Owner
Never Restored
Stored in a garage for 35 years.

Mint except for 1 tiny piece of rust... almost certain it is surface rust.

Original Paint, driveline, etc.

How rare is something like that? Would it be something to put some money in and completely restore, or customize. I am not into hacking up rare cars so I'd like to know. After it is restored could it be Barrett-Jackson material?

Would it be worth more with the original paint and the bit of rust, or new paint?


Thanks guys, I appreciate it.

[maxwedge]

This a complex question, check in Hemmings to see what a 53 is worth restored in any body style, then us this as a guideline, remember absolutely no repro parts are available for these cars.

[MagicRat]

IMO you will not get your money back on a resto.
This is a very rare piece. Probably its original condition makes it unique.

However, it is not particularly valuable. I agree on the suggestion, above, of doing some research. In a strange way, it may be more valuable as-is, in original considion.
Sure spending thousands will boost its value, but perhaps not enough to cover the expense of the work.

Personally, I think a good clean up and efforts to get the basic mechanicals (brakes etc) working would be worthwhile, just to show prospective buyers it will run and drive. Paint, body, chrome and interior resto would cost many thousands, though.