Hello

I like both of these cars one a 1957 oldsmobile fiesta wagon and 1971 oldsmobile cutlass sx. Both need considerable work on paintThis would be my first restore and I know it be will a long process. Any opinion what be better car to restore for first time?

Thanks

 

They are both really nice cars but I think you should do cutlass first. There a lot more parts available, original and repop. Since this your first resto it would be a good way to get learn.
Good luck either way.
Love that 57

 

The Fiesta would be my pick to restore, however the '71 will probably cost 75% less to restore.

 

I like the Fiesta also, very unique. The SX would be the easiest and least expensive for a first timer.

 

Thank you for the input. I do like the 57 but I worry about getting parts. Since both cars are far do you have a recommended auto inspection service.

 

For a first car I would recommend the Cutlass and then do the Fiesta. While you are doing the Cutlass you should start collecting needed parts for the wagon because it is going to take some time. Good luck. Both are nice cars.

 

X2 as well as most of above

The sx is a cool car lots of repop parts over all less time hunting for needed parts.
You could hunt for years to get all needed and recondition hard to find parts witch is more money.
Most project depending on funds and time take 3-10 years to complete for the average garage build , yes some take less and lots take longer as life gets in the way.
Great bunch of cars to build have fun!

 

Mostly it depends on which one you like the best. That being said you could go the rest of your life and probably never see another 57 fiesta at a show you would be in, the Cutless not so much.

It would be harder o find parts for the 57 wagon if you need them but the hunt is a big part of the fun of building a car. Then again if you want a cookie cutter car you can always get a 57 chevy all you need is a check book. Its all relative to your patience ability and and desire. My vote would be for the wagon..Lost in the fifties ....Tedd

 

If you have the patience and determination, I'd suggest the '57. The Fiestas are so cool, uncommon and desirable that they command smiles and attention everywhere they go. It would be more of a challenge depending on the completeness and condition of the wagon. The SX models are also very nice, good lines, loads of power and an increasing awareness make them a good choice as well. I bought a '70 SX in '96, collected a hoard of options and parts with the intention of a full on restoration. After sixteen years of prep, I finally realized that it would be substantially less money to buy a fully optioned/restored car that my family could enjoy immediately. Had it been a drop top, I would have been more likely to follow through based on final value and my wife's desire for a convertible. I think a great deal of what you decide would be based on your budget, patience and skill set as well as long term intentions for the car and probably most importantly: What do you like the best!! Whatever you decide, try to have a plan and follow though. Once you tear it down, you are obligated to follow through or sell it as parts like another member on this site had done with a '70 SX some time back. Best wishes