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Restoration budget planner

Lay out the whole project by area with your own numbers, plus a cushion for surprises. Copy the link to save your budget or share it.

Free, no sign-upUpdated September 2026
Your numbers
The car
Running gear
Finish and extras
Many restorers budget extra for what they find once parts come off.

Project total

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Car and parts
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Contingency
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Largest area
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Budget the body first

Body and rust repair is often the hardest area to estimate and the one that grows most once old paint and filler come off. Get it inspected on bare metal if you can.

Planning a restoration budget

Restoration costs depend on the car, its condition and how original you want it, so this planner doesn't guess. Fill in quotes and parts prices as you gather them and the total updates as you go.

Why a contingency

Few projects come in on budget. Hidden rust, missing parts and small hardware add up. A cushion of 20% or more keeps the project moving when those turn up. Use the link button to save your numbers and come back as your estimates firm up. The engine rebuild cost planner calculator can itemize the engine line for you.