Concours Restoration

Concours (from French "concours d'elegance" meaning "competition of elegance") represents the absolute pinnacle of automotive restoration—factory-correct in every measurable detail.

Concours standards require:

Authenticity:

• Numbers-matching drivetrain (engine, transmission, rear end)

• Date-coded parts (within weeks/months of build date)

• Factory-correct finishes (paint, plating, markings)

• Original assembly-line techniques replicated

• Period-correct fasteners and hardware

Condition:

• Perfect paint (zero orange peel, factory-correct application)

• Perfect chrome (no pitting, correct plating)

• Perfect interior (NOS or expertly restored originals)

• Perfect mechanicals (rebuilt to factory specs)

• Perfect undercarriage (correct finishes and overspray)

Documentation:

• Build sheet (factory documentation of original equipment)

• Marti Report (production database verification)

• Invoices and receipts (proving authenticity of parts)

• Restoration documentation (photos, notes, procedures)

Judging criteria:

• 100-point system (MCA, AACA, others)

• Points deducted for ANY deviation from factory-original

• Judges inspect EVERYTHING (paint thickness, spring tension, hose clamps)

• Winners score 98-100 points

• 95+ points is "excellent"

• Below 90 = not competitive

I've judged at local concours events. The level of detail is insane. I watched a judge deduct points because the brake fluid reservoir cap was correct but the date code was 6 months too new. Another deduction for overspray pattern on the firewall being 2 inches off from factory specs. These people are serious.

Concours restoration is for a very specific type of owner: someone who values absolute authenticity over drivability, cost, or practicality.

Who should do concours:

• Collector with rare/valuable car (Shelby, Boss, K-code)

• Enthusiast passionate about historical accuracy

• Someone wanting to compete at national shows

• Deep pockets (budget $80,000-$200,000+)

• Willing to trailer car to events (too valuable to drive)

Who should NOT do concours:

• Want to drive the car regularly (you won't)

• Budget under $80,000 (won't achieve concours standards)

• Want modern improvements (not allowed)

• Impatient (takes 2-4+ years)

• Value practicality over perfection

The financial reality:

• Concours restoration cost: $80,000-$200,000

• Resulting car value: $60,000-$150,000 (for most models)

• Financial loss: Common (except ultra-rare models)

• Emotional value: Priceless (to the right person)

The purpose:

Concours isn't about making money. It's about preserving automotive history to museum-quality standards. You do it because you love it, not because it makes financial sense.