Classic Car Restorations

Reviews

Reviews are sorted by relevance, with the most helpful and insightful feedback listed first for easy reference.

  Aaron Emery
a year ago
Original thought was, "wow, the team here does a fantastic job," but thoughts change.Let's start with the good.I took the car in with the goal of making it start and drive every time. Brian took in my Trans Am when everyone else was booked solid. He squeezed me in when he could and minus supply chain issues everything seemingly went perfect. Even with finding items we weren't expecting we still stayed just under budget and the car runs like a champ! Visually when I got the car back it was stunning!Now the bad.I drove the car three times. Transmission leak so bad after third time that it's bone dry. Reached Brian and and first he was responsive, but now it's been two weeks with no communication back. Started looking at the engine closer. Paint peeling off, painted over rust instead of cleaning it. The deal was if he could reach it he would paint it in the engine bay. I see several areas this was not done.And now the ugly:Starter cable slips off with ease. Battery drain issue I was told about doesn't seem to have a reason for it. Melted cables where they were ran against the engine block. Disconnected horn (worked when it arrived), disconnected radio (turned on when it arrived). Tachometer doesn't work (worked when it arrived)$20,000, 7 months, this thing should be perfect, but nope. Looks like I have to have the entire car rewired! Guess who isn't getting my business!Services: Transmission, Painting, Auto engine tuning, Engine repair

  Travis Eldredge
2 years ago
Brian is one of the best. I feel fortunate to have met him after to moving to Sarasota. High quality, custom classic car building! Brian is one of the only guys I trust to work on my 68 Bronco!Services: Exhaust, Retrofitting, Classic car upholstery, Electrical, Auto engine tuning, Body & Trim, Engine repair, A/C installation & repair, Air conditioningServices: Exhaust, Retrofitting, Classic car upholstery, Electrical, Auto engine tuning, Body & Trim, Engine repair, A/C installation & repair, Air conditioning

  Justin Brantley
3 years ago
Brian and his Team did an awesome job on my 79 F150. I got the truck about a month ago and had some things I wanted to get done to the truck. I gave him a call and we met a few days later to go over what I wanted done to the truck. He did exactly what we discussed and kept me updated on what was being done. Great job. This is where my truck will be going for any future work.

  Kenneth Kelley
4 years ago
I looked all over this area to find someone that knew what they were doing and would do quality work. Brian has done a really good job on my 55 Cadillac(pictured on the website, green 55 caddy). He researched, ordered and installed everything to get my Dads car back on the road. It s been a journey bringing this car that is full of memories back to life. Brian was a great coach and provided suggestions based on what I wanted. I just love having a WORKING vintage family car!I recommend Classic Car Restorations. Thanks Brian!

  TheOneAndOnly Moni
3 years ago
Brian and his team are the best of the best! My 66 mustang needed some help and after 3 years of bringing it to local businesses with good reviews...I was still not seeing progress! One mechanic had her at his shop for a year and she was still cutting off. I kept searching and found Brian... from the first day I walked the shop I knew that this would be the guys to help me get my girl on track. Not only are they great at what they do but they include you each step of the way with pics and videos. Now I didn't have a big budget and my mustang needed all the help she could get.... Brian told what I needed and gave me options on how to get her back up and running! I drove her 45 miles back home after towing her there! NO OTHER mechanic had been able to get her starting in one crank, idling with ease and driving like a muscle bound dream! They even put on parts i had in my trunk and tightened any loose screws they found! I'll be back so they better save me a parking spot Services: Steering & suspension repair, General repairs & maintenance, Wheel alignment, Brakes

  brenda shawley
4 years ago
I have known and worked with Brian for over twenty years. He and his team built several custom motorcycles for me and he also works on our cars. With all the people in the automotive industry, I have not worked with many that have the depth of knowledge, talent and ability to provide a high level of customer service. I have trusted Brian to complete a lot of projects over the years and because of his honesty, timeliness and very reasonable prices, will continue to do so.

  Christy Peterson
5 years ago
Brian the owner was great!! His communication is wonderful every step of the way he kept me informed while my vehicle was there. He was so honest and didn't try to over change for anything. He actually saved us money after getting a quote from someone else that was way higher and they had repairs on there that we didn't even need done. He is great and his shop is great!! I have recommended him to anyone that I can!

  Chanse Horne
3 years ago
These guys did an awesome job! If you want it done right, bring it here. They took pictures as they were doing the job and sent them to me to keep me updated. Very professional. My next project will be coming here!

  Mary Kutz
5 years ago
I have known Brian for several years and would recommend him to anyone. He is the only person I trust to work on my cars! His prices are very reasonable and he is a perfectionist at what he does. He treats my cars as if they were his own. Don t use anyone else if you want quality at a great price!

  Jennifer Killikevc
3 years ago
I would highly recommend this shop . A huge thank you to Brian and his team, I was in from out of town and had some issues with my vehicle. Being an older vehicle a lot of places I called were not interested in the job. I called Brian and Classic Car Restorations told him the issues my vehicle was having. I let him know I was in from out of town and he had me bring my vehicle over right away. He was able to diagnose the problem quickly and efficiently compote work and quickly. He had me back on the road in now time before I had to make my trip back home. Thank you again for all your hard work and kindness it s greatly appreciated.Service: General repairs & maintenance

  Haley
8 years ago
I went through many mechanics looking for someone to work on bringing my 1964 Ford Falcon back to health. I was recommended EMD by some of the local classic car organizations, and I could not be happier.Brian and his team have been a godsend; this shop has the best all around crew I've come into contact with. Not only are they incredibly knowledgeable and honest, but they are clearly passionate about what they do. Each time I've brought my Falcon there, they've gone above and beyond what I asked to make sure the car was functioning properly. This is the first shop I've been to (and there have been many) that I feel is unquestionably fair and honest. Brian (the manager) is great about explaining all the details to me and even making money saving suggestions on what I can accomplish at home, and is awesome about working with my limited budget to get the best results.Everyone I've spoken to has been helpful, courteous and showcased their significant love and respect for classic cars. I recommend this shop to anyone and will keep coming back for the life of my car and any other classic I might own in the future.

  jim lawson
2 years ago
May 2021, Went back to CCR to have electronic power steering installed in my 68 no-power steering Vette. The difference is amazing and the car could now handle any autocross course with ease. The adjustable steering feature works great and I no longer struggle in tight spots or garages. I am very happy with the high quality work done by Brian and the team there.Brian did a great job rebuilding my 68 Vette original engine. I wanted it to appear original plus have a significant power boost from the 300hp original 327CI. Brian worked with me to design an engine with more HP and torque and I am very happy with the result.Service: Steering & suspension repair

  Bonnie Sullivan
4 years ago
I used Elite Motorsports + Design for the work on my C3 up grades. I worked with Brian with my initial wish list and budget. Following his recommendations for the new motor the work progressed. As with any restoration I new there would be unforeseen additions to the project. Brian always kept a running total of costs, this allowed me to add additional work as mu budget would allow. I have taken delivery and am now in the motor break in period and am very happy with the car. I would highly recommend Brian's shop.

  Noah Peterson
4 years ago
Brian is the best! Whether your looking for a complete restoration or just a simple repair his shop does it all! He's very honest and trustworthy and his work is top notch! Brian is the only one I trust with my vehicles and would recommend him to anyone!

  Terri Brusio
4 years ago
If you are looking for good quality workmanship don't hesitate on doing business with them.We had a custom chopper built by Brian and were over the moon with it.We discussed what we wanted and he delivered. The attention to detail was on point. I would highly recommend them .

  lyle place
3 years ago
After purchasing my 1933 Ford coupe I had a accident involving some major damage to the passenger side door. Brian and his team spent time to explain in detail all that needed to be done. In the process of the repair he discovered several other problems that needed to be repaired that I was unaware of. I had them take care of these also.Any future problems that arise will be taken care of by Classic Car Restorations. I highly recommend them for all your classic car needs.Services: Electrical repair, Painting, Classic car upholstery, General repairs & maintenance, Electrical, Body & Trim, Upholstery installation

  Frank Lugano
4 years ago
Brian does excellent work I got to know him when he was working on my 56 Chevy 210 wagon is very professional He was able to get my car back on the road. I also considered Brian As a new friend I would recommend him to anybody that wants to restore their old classic car.

  Lori Guidoboni
2 years ago
This place is incredible! I received a 1967 VW bus as my 60th Birthday present from my husband. What a great surprise. He could not have done this without the help of Classic Car Restorations. They put in all new carpet, power steering, touch-screen stereo and sound system, and checked over the motor. They serviced the brake system and rear hubs. It runs beautifully and thanks to them I am LOVING my "new" 1967 VW bus!!

  anthony abreu
3 years ago
This company calls itself classic car restorations but they bill you under elite motorsports. I had work done to my car back in October. My disappointment and anger was so great that it has taken this much time to calm myself to write this review. I was able to recoupe $1k from a charge back I filed due to the incompetence in my opinion performed in the mechanical work done to my vehicle. I could write about how my brakes went out on me driving 60 miles an hour after picking up my car, and how the owners response was to add a free temp gauge due to my inconvenience of almost getting In a car wreck . I could talk about the lower control arms that were never replaced ( I had another mechanic vet the work on this invoice ) , I could write about how I was charged $600 for ball joints .But alas I posted the invoice so the world can view what In my opinion is inflated pricing. The owner argued with me about a charge back I placed but with me paying the bulk of this invoice in cash I m sure he is happy that I paid the price of being naive , if i am able to save anyone from having the same experience I had then this review was well worth it. Thank you for taking the time to read this and for the owner of this business don t worry I m not going to ask you to warrantee your work.Elite Motorsports and DesignDUE 12/19/2020$15,270.40Print or savePowered by QuickBooksDear Anthony Abreu,Here's your invoice! We appreciate your prompt payment.Have a great day,Elite Motorsports and DesignTerms Net 30Brake Booster $610.00TBrake master cylinder and booster1 X $610.00Disk Brake kit $830.00TWilwood Disk Brake kit1 X $830.00Front Suspension $334.00TFront suspension kit1 X $334.00Steering Drag Link $338.00TSteering drag link1 X $338.00Control Arms $454.00TUpper and Lower control arms1 X $454.00Thermostat $17.00TThermostat1 X $17.00Radiator $350.00TRadiator1 X $350.00Antifreeze $55.00TCoolant1 X $55.00Stereo $1,200.00TBluetooth stereoKicker subFocal speakersWiring1 X $1,200.00Brake line $45.00TBrake line1 X $45.00Weather Strip $280.00TDoor weather stripping1 X $280.00Shocks $236.00TShocks4 X $59.00Rotella $32.00TRotella motor oil 15w401 X $32.00Spark Plugs $30.40TAutolite spark plugs8 X $3.80Ball Joints $608.00TUpper and lower ball joints1 X $608.00Tires $1,500.00TWide white wall tires P215/75R151 X $1,500.00Mount and Ballance $125.00TMount and Balance 5 tires1 X $125.00Alignment $225.00TFront end alignment1 X $225.00Labor $7,050.00TLaborStereo install and speakersFront steeringUpper and Lower control armsShocks front and rearDash lightsDisk brakes and power boosterBrake linesTiresSpark plugsOil changeWeather strippingRadiator and thermostatInstall on/off battery switch47 X $150.00Battery Disconnect $19.00TBattery quick disconnect1 X $19.00Subtotal $14,338.40Tax $932.00Total $15,270.40Balance due $15,270.40Print or saveElite Motorsports and Design2006 58th Ave Cir East Bradenton, FL 34203Services: Steering & suspension repair, Wheel alignment, Brakes

  Anne Casanova
5 years ago
After going through years of mechanical problems and investing more bad money after more bad money with the dealership service department and other mechanics, Classic Car Restorations was able to discover the base of and truly fix the problem with my Volkswagen CC Turbo Sport without bleeding me dry.Great work and very reasonably priced! True professionals!

  Alexander M
2 years ago
I recently had a couple of items worked on at this shop. I had Dakota digital gauges added, switched out shifters to a factory horseshoe look and a tune up on my Chevelle. So far so good. I have a couple more items that I want done before I enjoy for the car season.

  Richard Kitzmiller
3 years ago
I purchased a classic car and I needed an experienced shop to give it a thorough safety review. Brian and his team delivered exactly as promised at a great price.Services: Auto engine tuning, BrakesServices: Auto engine tuning, Brakes

  Robert Sherman
4 years ago
Brian built a custom chopper for me and the bike was a one off creation. Beautiful bike and was there for me whenever I had an issue. Highly recommended.

  Phil Novath
5 years ago
I have followed Brian from day 1. From custom motorcycles to custom cars, nothing but quality work. I would not hesitate to go to Brian for any future work needed.

  Amber Grace
3 years ago
Wonderful! Just simply wonderful! Brian was so helpful and nice. He listened to our concerns and helped us make the right decisions for us. Thank You for everything!Services: Tires, General repairs & maintenance, A/C installation & repairServices: Tires, General repairs & maintenance, A/C installation & repair

  Gene Macogay
3 years ago
Very knowledgeable, excellent attention to details and professional results. I couldn t be happier. Thank you to Brian and his team for taking such great care of my baby.

  rhino importsandexports
4 years ago
I was out in California when I came across a true barn find 1971 el camino ss and as a business owner out of the Sarasota Fl area I knew that if I could get this car I had a guy who could bring it back to it glory days that where the owner of classic car restorationBrian comes into play I have seen some of the great rides he s created or completely redone for people and couldn t think of anyone better to tackle this restoration I hand him the keys to a freshly shipped and filthy barn find that wasn t running and need some love in what seemed like no time at all I got a call that she was all ready to go and I walked right pasted it in his shop and never thought it could be mine figured someone else had a nice $70,000 dollar mint one and nope that was my barn find that looked and sounded amazingThanks again for everything can t wait for our next project car

  Angel Raymond
5 years ago
Excellent place, I took my vehicle to them, they were very knowledgeable and helpful. The turn around time was quick as promised. The selection of vehicles they were working on was outstanding! I will definitely be back!!!

  Donald Hosmer
3 years ago
I had small odds and ends that needed work and was pleased that they even took the job. They finished faster than I expected with great attention to detail. Easy to recommend

  Shawn Brown
6 years ago
These guys, really did a nice update/restore on my mustang. great work! I will be back!