Rebody A potential rebody 'virgin'

[Pond]

Hi peeps,
I am again looking at a Z3 rebody build. I have really wanted to do a 250 cali SWB since DNA released them around 7 years ago IIRC. I did make enquiries with Brian at DNA at the time and even sourced a really good 3 litre Z3. Just as I was about the purchase the Z3, DNA's 'problems' happened and it obviously went no further.

I thought the moment had passed and it would not be possible ever again, until I noticed on a thread on here that I may be able to still get a kit.

I have spoken to the kit supplier briefly on the phone and have been doing a lot of research (as much as I can as there is very little info available anymore from what I have seen).
As I have never done anything like this before, I am having serious self doubt as to whether I will be able to achieve what I want, or even complete a build for the following reasons:
Not sure I have all the skills required as am a complete novice. I am an engineer by trade and can turn my hand to most things but cars is a relatively new area!
I don't really have anyone to help with the two handed bits (other than the wife!).
I am struggling to find suppliers of many of the parts I will require.
I will need to ask lots of questions of people who have 'been there and done that'.
I will not do a 'that will do' kind of job; I would rather not do it at all. I have a vision of what I want and the quality I require; it has to be very close to that.

Apologies for the long and rambling post, but I suppose what I need is much encouragement and advice, or a 'don't bother you ain't gonna do it' kind of response.

I don't think it will help much but I have just sold a really good E89 Z4 which I did quite a bit of repair and maintenance work to!

 

[t-tony]

Where are you located? There could well be a member close by who may fancy being a helper.

Tony.

 

[Pond]

Where are you located? There could well be a member close by who may fancy being a helper.

Spalding (near you actually).

 

[IanA]

Which body kit are you considering?
Lots of experience on here.

 

[Pond]

Which body kit are you considering?

The one that a forum member is selling. A bit pricey but can't find any others TBH!

 

[Dxbolton]

The one that a forum member is selling. A bit pricey but can't find any others TBH!

That’s probably the last Cali remaining, and if it’s done right could be six figures when complete.

 

[Foglem]

I am an electrical engineer. Granted I've always worked on my own cars and am mechanically inclined, but I have never done anything like this before. My suggestion is to do as much research as you can and enjoy the problem solving process. The beautiful thing about these cars is that the sky is the limit and there isn't necessarily 'a correct way to do it'. I say jump in, do as much research as you can. When you can't wrap your head around something just ask. Everyone on here has been very helpful and positive. I would suggest joining the Facebook group if you have not yet.

Expect things to take longer than you think. (Reasons either technical problems or life...) There will be things you haven't thought of. Just be mindful that the enjoyment is the process. Once it's done you'll have an awesome car that will need maintence etc., so I'm learning the build is the fun bit.

 

[Dxbolton]

The one that a forum member is selling. A bit pricey but can't find any others TBH!

The 250 SWB convertible is still available if that’s an option for you. Classic Coachworks can supply this called an Isabella now, or deal direct with Tribute.

 

[Pond]

The 250 SWB convertible is still available if that’s an option for you. Classic Coachworks can supply this called an Isabella now, or deal direct with Tribute.

Thanks but that body is not a 250 'Cali' SWB. Just doesn't look right! Much cheaper, admittedly. If I am to do this, it has to be as 'right' as I can possibly make it.

I've been doing a LOT of research regarding parts, etc. My budget of £30k (including a really good 2.8 or 3.0 Z3) is going to be nowhere near enough. I think I will need at least another £10k on top.

 

[Dxbolton]

Thanks but that body is not a 250 'Cali' SWB. Just doesn't look right! Much cheaper, admittedly. If I am to do this, it has to be as 'right' as I can possibly make it.

I've been doing a LOT of research regarding parts, etc. My budget of £30k (including a really good 2.8 or 3.0 Z3) is going to be nowhere near enough. I think I will need at least another £10k on top.

The Cali’s are lovely but the interior can soak up a lot of cash on their own, you will always recoup your outlay when done nicely

 

[jaguartvr]

2.8 donor £2000 (after selling parts)
Basic kit £12500
interior panels £2k
Stainless bumpers & trim £3250
Chrome wire wheels , hubs, spinners & tyres £2000
replica door & boot handles £600
MGB seats, leather seat covers & vinyl trim £1200
steering wheel & boss £200
Lights indictors etc £500
Correct rear lenses £250

+£25k

Plus £5k for paint

2 have sold on the car and classic auction site recently, £70k & £77K

There was also the Florida build that sold for $267,000 fitted with a Corvette engine. The new owner spun it coming off a freeway and has totalled the front, mileage 8 miles! That's gotta hurt.

 

[Pond]

2.8 donor £2000 (after selling parts)
Basic kit £12500
interior panels £2k
Stainless bumpers & trim £3250
Chrome wire wheels , hubs, spinners & tyres £2000
replica door & boot handles £600
MGB seats, leather seat covers & vinyl trim £1200
steering wheel & boss £200
Lights indictors etc £500
Correct rear lenses £250

+£25k

Plus £5k for paint

2 have sold on the car and classic auction site recently, £70k & £77K

There was also the Florida build that sold for $267,000 fitted with a Corvette engine. The new owner spun it coming off a freeway and has totalled the front, mileage 8 miles! That's gotta hurt.

A good 2.8 Z3 is getting near £6,000 ATM. I don't want a high miler old dog. It doesn't make sense to me to spend lots of money dressing up a dog. I am happy to spend money dressing up a super model, though.
The money is not necessarily the issue, it's all the things (and bits) I am struggling to find as the market is non-existent.
BTW I will be in touch shortly.

 

[jaguartvr]

Look on facebook or eBay for a 2.8 there are a lot of cheaper cars available,3.0 tend to go for a lot more but don't overspend on one.
I have a 2.8 on the drive. 104k cat D (front bumper) adjustable front suspension £1700

If possible do try and get one with the polished alloy windscreen finisher. You can still buy them for about £200 from BMW but the windscreen has to come out to fit them.

 

[Pond]

Look on facebook or eBay for a 2.8 there are a lot of cheaper cars available,3.0 tend to go for a lot more but don't overspend on one.
I have a 2.8 on the drive. 104k cat D (front bumper) adjustable front suspension £1700

If possible do try and get one with the polished alloy windscreen finisher. You can still buy them for about £200 from BMW but the windscreen has to come out to fit them.

I will not buy another car from facebook marketplace. Been there, done that. And am still spending money on the POS just to keep it roadworthy.
I will not buy a 'cat' car, either. And it has to be under 80k miles. I would really like a 3.0l, as the M54 engine is superior IMO, but as you say, they are asking silly money. Cars like the Z3 (and Z4 which I am more familiar with) are starting to suffer pricewise (not before time IMHO), due to the current financial situation. It just seems that those selling them are not aware yet.
I am extremely fussy about cars (in fact I'm extremely fussy in general) and have to have the best available. It's just the way I am, unfortunately!

If I could find a 3.0l with full service history, 40k miles and knackered bodywork I would be in heaven. I found one once (it was £5k in 2017) but things went south with 'you know who' so never bought it.

The last 250 Cali sold on C&C last week for £70k. It looked like a good one, with lots of money being spent on all the 'right' bits.