"Concours builds" versus Daily Driver "Resto-Mod" builds"... Our Attitude on restoration of the "People's Bus".
Updated: Sep 8
Concours VW bus restorations involve a specialized and meticulous process dedicated to the careful refurbishment of Volkswagen buses, especially the iconic Type 2 models, which have developed a cult following over the years. These restorations go beyond merely repairing an old vehicle; they embody a profound appreciation for automotive history, design, and culture. Enthusiasts and collectors often aim to restore these buses to their original state or customize them as "Resto-Mods" to uniquely reflect personal style while preserving the essence of the classic design.
Volkswagen certification for Concours builds and required authenticity is costly.
Thus, deciding between restoring to "Concours standards" and selecting a "Resto-Mod" restoration is a crucial choice. It necessitates considering feasibility, time, and the potential trade-off of modern upgrades for safety and aesthetics. This decision also demands a realistic evaluation of the project car and the likelihood of a return on investment after restoring the vehicle according to modern standards.
At Reborn Customs, we believe you need to meticulously assess each project car using expert insight and the knowledge gained through past experiences. By identifying potential issues before the dismantling and cleaning stages, one can can accurately estimate the time required to restore a vehicle to its original condition. This approach also helps avoid unexpected costs that could extend the project's timeframe and reduce profitability. We believe that "Concours builds" do not justify dedicating our resources for their proper completion within a reasonable timeframe. Most buyers, in our view, prioritize quality but not at the expense of safety. We can work on several project cars simultaneously in half the time it would take for a proper Concours restoration. Museum builds are demanding in terms of time and resources. Our goal is to produce vehicles that showcase quality while maintaining a reasonable market price.
The restoration process usually starts with a detailed evaluation of the bus's current state. This includes examining the body for rust, dents, and structural soundness, as well as assessing the engine, transmission, and electrical systems. Many restorers strive to retain as many original parts as possible, often requiring the sourcing of rare components from across the globe. Fortunately, Brasil offers an outstanding inventory of available parts, both original OEM and aftermarket manufactured. This reduces the time needed to search for and acquire quality parts, which have become increasingly scarce as fewer donor vehicles are available. This commitment to authenticity is a defining feature of Concours restorations, where the aim is to reach a level of detail and quality that would be recognized in a competitive show setting.
However, "Daily Drivers" are both more cost-effective and feasible to complete at a high-quality level while preserving value without sacrificing safety.
Once the initial assessment is finished, the extensive journey of competent restoration can commence. This often involves significant bodywork, known as the "metal phase," where rusted panels are either replaced or repaired. The entire exterior is stripped down to bare metal before being repainted in the original factory colors or custom shades that honor the vibrant history of the VW bus. Replacing the layers of bondo filler commonly used in restorations with metal not only enhances the bus's value but also prevents more severe chassis damage in accidents. Bondo shatters, metal doesn't.
The interior is a central aspect of our restorations. At Reborn, we consistently choose to reupholster seats, refurbish the dashboard, and restore the original fixtures to evoke a nostalgic ambiance that takes passengers back to the golden era of road trips and adventure...all while meeting modern quality standards.
And... we make all of our buses "like new" and uniquely individual.
"Original" is great if it's in decent shape and not in the throws of a disintegrating materials death spiral.Locating a project vehicle that is both authentic and in outstanding condition is challenging, and the ideal "barn find" is nearly impossible without considerable luck or a substantial budget.
(Or both)
Furthermore, proper mechanical restoration holds equal significance. This involves rebuilding the engine to ensure smooth and efficient operation while enhancing horsepower. It's crucial to revamp the transmission and braking systems. The original VW-engineered systems fall short in performance compared to the modern upgraded components found in today's vehicles.
At Reborn, we also upgrade specific components to boost reliability while preserving the vintage aesthetic, such as adding modern safety features or upgrading the suspension for better handling. Disc brakes and 3-point safety harnesses increase both the value and safety of our builds.
Our ultimate objective is to create a vehicle that is both visually striking and dependable on the road, ensuring that owners can enjoy their restored VW buses for many years, without compromising on safety with outdated 50's technology.
Concours VW bus and Resto-mod restorations foster a sense of community among enthusiasts. Car shows, meet-ups, and online forums provide platforms for owners to exchange tips, showcase their work, and celebrate the unique character of each bus. This camaraderie is vital to the restoration culture, as it encourages knowledge sharing and inspires new restorers to embark on their own projects. The passion for these vehicles extends beyond mechanics; it is about preserving a piece of automotive history that has brought joy to many individuals and families over the years.
In summary, concours VW bus restorations represent a complex mix of artistry, engineering, and community spirit. At Reborn Customs, we appreciate the "concours ethic" for its commitment to originality and authentic reproduction. However, we recognize that the typical buyer expects more from their purchase, and modern safety demands incorporate technologies that weren't available "back in the day."
At Reborn, we not only restore classic vehicles but also preserve the stories and memories linked to them, ensuring the Volkswagen bus's legacy endures for future generations.
Concours is "nice" if you're willing to pay the "price" and go through the intricate restoration process it demands.
We believe that "Resto-mods" largely adhere to the original factory designs while offering a degree of individuality that factory-style builds cannot achieve. Iconic VW buses are inherently unique, and we deliver distinctive builds for discerning buyers, ensuring safety and affordability are not compromised.
For us, the decision is simple: try to attain "Concours quality," while restoring buses that you can drive daily without the risk of significant loss that a Concours investment would incur if damaged. We help ensure the legacy of the ICONIC VW BUS remains intactand the individuality that always has accompanied it.
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