quote:
Originally posted by BD:
My opinion is that if the Bronze Metallic is the original color you should paint it that color no matter what it looks like. To me, there is just something about an original appearing car in excellant condition that really stands out as a true classic. I debated about repainting my 71 the original red (one of the most common colors in 1971) or painting it a Ferrari red. I went with the original color and I am damn glad I did. I will admit there are better shades of red out there but to me the original color looks right. It was a beautiful car in 1971, why screw it up with an unoriginal paint job?[/B]
The important thing to remember is that everyone has an opinion, especially, it seems, owners of these beautiful automobiles. Just because a color was the original color doesn't mean it is a good color 30 years later. We are talking early 70's, a time of some of the most god-awful paint colors ever. Unless you are doing a full concourse restoration I would pick a color you are going to be happy with. The gentleman in the post above says he has that color already and loves it. Ask him to send you pictures or better yet, if he is not too far, invest some $$$$ and actually go see it. The thousands of dollars that a really good quality paint job is going to cost requires something that you will be happy with.
I have a friend who did a first class full concourse restoration on a 66 (I think) Mustang fastback who painted it the original factory Emberglow (which is a metallic bronze color) that is one of the finest technical restorations I have ever seen (I used to own a Mustang parts business so I have seen a few) never wins at any shows because the color was so unpopular. He has entered the car against his other 65 fastback that is an older restoration and the red 65 wins every time.
Hopefully, you intend to keep the car, but you may also consider how your choice might effect potential resale. Bottom line you should choose what makes you happy and definitely go base/clearcoat, whatever color you choose.
Good luck
Gary #06984