The Art and Economics of Automotive Restoration

When you're restoring a classic or exotic vehicle, the journey isn't just about bringing a car back to life—it's an investment in craftsmanship, history, and performance. At Restorations by Sabra, every project is guided by a 25-step Vision-Driven Build Process, ensuring clients see exactly where their money goes—from design and development through final delivery.

FFP vs T&M in Restoration: What’s the Difference?

Fixed-Fee Pricing (FFP):

• Clients receive a single, upfront quote for the entire restoration.

• Offers predictability but lacks flexibility. Hidden issues like unseen rust or part delays can threaten quality or lead to change orders and compromises.

Time & Materials (T&M):

• Billing is based on actual hours worked and materials used.

• Delivers transparency, adaptability, and alignment with evolving restoration needs.

Restorations by Sabra exclusively uses T&M, precisely because restoration work is inherently unpredictable and deeply personalized.

Why Restorations by Sabra Prefers T&M

1. Accuracy and Transparency

Every task—from frame-off disassembly to final finish—is documented. Clients receive itemized breakdowns of labor and costs so there are no surprises, only clarity.

2. Customization and Quality

Each vehicle is treated as unique. The Vision-Driven Process allows adjustments on the fly, whether refining the chassis, adding performance upgrades, or fine-tuning aesthetics.

3. Risk Management

With FFP, contractors may cut corners to stay within budget; if unexpected issues arise, either quality suffers, or additional costs get passed to the client. T&M shifts this dynamic by billing only for actual work done—providing peace of mind that integrity and vision won’t be compromised.

The Drawbacks of FFP in Restoration

• A flat fee can't account for hidden complexities—things like rusted frames or missing parts can drastically inflate costs, forcing either compromises or costly change orders.

• Every restoration is unique. One-size-fits-all pricing inevitably risks underestimating effort, or overcharging for simpler jobs.

Why T&M Makes the Most Sense for Restorations

• Flexibility: T&M accommodates shifting needs without financial or contractual friction.

• Accountability: With regular updates and checkpoints, it offers exceptional transparency and client control.

• Speed to Start: T&M allows building to begin immediately. FFP often stalls at the scope definition and bidding stage—delaying progress.

Restoration Levels & Costs

Even without exact figures, the value of T&M billing becomes clear when looking at different types of restorations:

• Factory Correct Restorations: Historically accurate overhauls, often requiring hundreds or thousands of hours depending on vehicle condition.

• Restomods & Pro-Touring Builds: Projects blending classic aesthetics with modern performance. Costs vary dramatically, but T&M ensures no stage of the build—from hidden structural work to high-performance drivetrain installation—is shortchanged or overbilled.

In Conclusion

Choosing a restoration partner is more than picking a service—it’s investing in an experience where craftsmanship, clarity, and flexibility converge. Restorations by Sabra’s commitment to Time & Materials billing, reinforced by their Vision-Driven process, ensures your build remains aligned with your dream—and your budget. You’re not just restoring a car; you're co-creating a legacy.