Driving a vintage car is like traveling through time. Whether you own a ’60s Mustang, a chrome-laden Cadillac, or a rare European coupe, Jim Taylor Automotive treats every classic as if it were our own. Our family-owned shop has served Sarasota drivers for more than 15 years, and our ASE-certified technicians blend old-school craftsmanship with today’s precise tools. From the first inspection to the final road test, we protect your investment, your safety, and your enjoyment on every mile.
Why Sarasota Collectors Choose Jim Taylor Automotive
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Proven expertise. Our team rebuilds vintage engines, calibrates carburetors, and matches factory paint codes every week.
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Lifetime workmanship warranty. We back every restoration with the region’s strongest written guarantee—because quality lasts.
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Convenience first. Same- or next-day status updates, the largest fleet of loaner vehicles in Sarasota, plus free Uber rides to and from the shop.
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Flexible financing. Synchrony payment plans make a dream build possible without draining your savings.
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Local legacy. As a Sarasota fixture since 2010, we know the climate challenges—salt air, humidity, and sun fade—and how to shield classics from them.
Full-Service Classic Car Restoration Solutions
Our 12,000-square-foot facility on North Washington Boulevard houses everything your classic needs under one roof:
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Engine & Drivetrain – Complete rebuilds, machining, and break-in dyno testing.
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Body & Frame – Rust repair, panel fabrication, chassis alignment, and epoxy undercoating.
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Paint & Finish – Period-correct colors, multi-stage wet-sanding, and ceramic coating for Florida UV defense.
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Electrical Upgrades – Factory-spec wiring harnesses or discreet modern additions like electronic ignition and hidden Bluetooth audio.
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Interior Restoration – Original-pattern seat upholstery, wool carpeting, headliner replacement, and dash trim refinishing.
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Suspension & Brakes – Leaf-spring re-arching, bushing replacement, power-assist brake conversions, and authentic drum/shoe resurfacing.
Need a one-off service—say, a carburetor tune or a dent-free paint correction? We tackle partial projects, too.
Our Eight-Step Restoration Process
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Vision & Inspection
A 200-point evaluation sets the baseline. We discuss originality goals, drivability upgrades, and your budget. -
Detailed Estimate
You receive a line-item quote and realistic timeline—no surprises later. -
Disassembly & Cataloging
Every bolt, badge, and bracket is tagged, photographed, and stored in climate-controlled bins. -
Metal & Body Work
We cut out corrosion, fabricate panels, and test-fit gaps until body lines are flawless. -
Mechanical Overhaul
Engines, transmissions, and axles are rebuilt or replaced to factory spec—or stronger if you prefer. -
Paint & Finish
Epoxy primer, high-build surfacer, block sanding, color, and clear—baked and polished to a mirror shine. -
Interior & Trim
Seats, carpets, gauges, and brightwork are restored or sourced NOS (new-old stock) when possible. -
Road Test & Delivery
Multiple 50-mile loops verify cooling, braking, and electrical systems. You get a photo logbook and maintenance plan at hand-off.
Preserving Value and Driveability
A well-documented restoration does more than turn heads—it protects resale value and insurability. Jim Taylor Automotive supplies:
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Comprehensive photo record for auctions and insurance.
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Documentation of OEM part numbers or high-quality reproductions.
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Climate-controlled storage during every stage to prevent mold or paint defects.
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Ongoing maintenance plans—oil formulated for flat-tappet cams, yearly coolant checks, battery tenders, and ceramic coating refreshes.
We also educate owners on best practices for Florida’s coastal climate: rinse salt spray promptly, ventilate interiors, and schedule twice-yearly inspections before humidity peaks.
FAQs: Classic Car Restoration in Sarasota
How much does a full restoration cost?
Budgets range from $30,000 for a street-ready refresh to well over $120,000 for a concours, frame-off build. After our inspection, we provide a firm quote and payment schedule.
How long will my restoration take?
Most projects span 9–16 months, depending on parts availability and the level of detail. We send you monthly progress photos and invite in-person walk-throughs.
Can I add modern air-conditioning without hurting value?
Yes. We install compact A/C units that hide behind the dash and use factory-style vents, preserving originality while keeping you cool in Sarasota heat.
Do you work on muscle cars as well as European classics?
Absolutely. From big-block Chevys to British roadsters, our technicians understand multiple eras and marques.
What is a frame-off restoration?
We separate the body from the chassis, allowing us to access every inch of metal. It’s labor-intensive but delivers the highest structural integrity and paint quality.
Do you guarantee the paint?
Paintwork is covered by our lifetime workmanship warranty against flaking, bubbling, and peeling, provided recommended care is followed.
People Also Ask
Is classic car restoration worth it?
Restoring a classic often increases its market value and extends its lifespan. It also turns a sentimental heirloom into a safer, more reliable vehicle.
Can I daily-drive a restored vintage car?
With upgraded cooling, brakes, and ignition systems, many classics can handle daily commutes. We discuss your goals and build accordingly.
How do I maintain a restored car in Florida’s humidity?
Store it in a ventilated garage, keep the undercarriage clean, apply ceramic coating, and schedule bi-annual inspections at Jim Taylor Automotive.
What insurance do I need after restoration?
We recommend agreed-value classic car policies, which lock in your vehicle’s appraised worth rather than depreciated book value.
Start Your Restoration Journey Today
You’ve dreamed long enough—it’s time to see your classic shine again. Contact Jim Taylor Automotive or visit us to schedule your complimentary 200-point restoration assessment. With flexible financing, lifetime warranty, and a team that values craftsmanship as much as you do, we make reviving your vintage ride simple and stress-free. Reserve your spot on our build calendar now and drive the legend you love—reborn, reliable, and ready for the Florida roads.