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Restoration economics and cost

Mercedes-Benz 190SL (W121) · ownership

Commenters stress that a proper restoration routinely costs more than the finished car is worth — figures north of $100k and often over $200k are cited — with engine and body work by name shops (Metric Motors, F40, S&S Imports) especially dear. This underpins the recurring 'you can't restore one for what this sold for' argument on clean cars.