How important is it that a car be painted it's original color?

[Olderisbetter]

I am often asked this question in regards to painting a classic car. "How important is it in order for a car to keep it's value that it be painted the same color as the original color"?

Any thoughts on this?

'Olderisbetter'

[drben]

Hi 'Olderisbetter',

I see no one has answered your question from earlier this week but I do have my thoughts. I am not sure about the value part of your question, so I encourage anyone who knows or has an opinion to post their answers. But I think, if at all possible, owners of classics should try and match the new paint coat to the original paint color. But then again, I understand that there is no right or wrong answer, probably just the preference of the owner.

Does any one else on the forum have an opinion? I am interested in seeing the responses to the 'value' part of your earlier question.

Dr. Ben

[T&TPerformance]

Keeping a car its original color is very important if the car has its original drivetrain, the term "matching numbers" refers to an original drivetrain in a classic car.