vauxhallviva.com

It depends entirely on your situation. If you can afford to do it, what does it matter if the money you spend doesn't go straight onto the value? It doesn't in a lot of cases - if you had an old E-type Jag, the work would probably be more expensive so even though the car is worth more, the result would still be the same.

It's only really an issue if you intend to dispose of the car shortly after you have it restored, or if you foolishly keep a detailed record of everything the car has cost you, and look at it ever again

In a way, it's good to hear of people who are prepared to spend a fair amount of money getting a proper job done. It does sound a lot, but even stuff like your location in the country will make a difference to that. I spent less than that having a lot more work done on the Firenza, and at the time it was 50/50 whether the value of the car would cover the cost of the work, though that's not the case any more. And because I paid for a good job to be done, it still very presentable (IMO) twelve years later.

Hi guys,
Just a quick note to thank all the contributors who took the time and effort to give me advice on my would-be restoration.
Having given much thoughtful and careful consideration - I have decided to get rid of the Viva as it just isn't worth the bother - JOKE!! Got you all going there a bit, didn't I...?!
Seriously, I sincerely appreciated all the comments! Based on them, I have 'shopped' around and have found a local Classic Car Restorer who is going to tackle all the rust issues including a 'few holes' next week! I tend to sometimes let my heart rule my head when it comes to making decisions in life - and using this guy might seem like another case in point - but I trust him to go a good job based on the work I've seen him previuosly undertake... He's quoted me what I think is a pretty reasonable amount.
I think it makes sense to get the car 'sound of body' before considering how far to go down the route of body respraying, etc.
I'll keep members informed with regards to how the 'rolling resto' goes over the next few weeks/months...
- I'm still loving the car. It is a real pleasure to drive - much more preferable to my homogenous 'modern' car.
- I watched a tv programme last week on 1977 (the year my car was buit) and was looking for inspiration for a name for him when there is was... 'SATURDAY NIGHT VIVA...' Gotta love that!!
John.

Excellent, still like some photos!!

Peter

Hi folks,

Well today I took my precious GLS to a local-ish chap for the start of what will be a very successful 'sort out' of the bodywork, have some small mechanical 'niggles' sorted out (hopefully) but best and most excitingly of all - to have a full re-spray in its original Ruby factory colour...

Keep watching for updates. My man has said around 4 weeks to do all the work as he has to fit around other work which suits me fine - although I will miss all of July's local classic car shows which is bit of a shame. He's said a can make weekly or so visits to see his progress and update the photos of the work unfolding...

I'm very excited!!

John.

I've just had mine resprayed. I hope all goes well. It's worth it when you see the finished job

Good news, keep us posted with photos etc.

Peter