With all due respect, i have my own take on this.
FACT. These 123 Mustangs are around 40 years old. They were never designed to last 40 years. If you want to keep these cars in good looking, good running, roadworthy condition, then one way or another, you have to SPEND MONEY to make that happen.
FACT. Spending money.
To keep them running in good condition, you'll be spending money on parts and labor costs. Here's where there's a big difference as to where you live on the planet. If you live in America, that will be most of the battle, as parts and labor are still reasonably priced to the American public. Gas is still fairly cheap compared to the rest of the world too. Purchasing values for these cars are still realistic in America too. However, if you live in a foreign country, buying, importing, owning, running, restoring and maintaining these cars is quite expensive compared to America. Buying and importing these cars is expensive. Buying and importing parts is expensive. Paying for labor done on your car is expensive. ( i have all the paperwork to prove this) So to own, maintain in good condition, and drive one of these 40 year old cars in America is one thing, but is another thing money wise in another country. It's a whole lot more, and you'll need deep pockets to do it.
FACT. Money value.
In most cases you'll be blowing your money owning these cars, especially if you live in an overseas country. It is true that as collectables, these 123 Mustangs are slowly appreciating in value around the world as time moves on. However, if you add up exactly what you have spent on your car to keep it in top condition since you've owned it, you'll find in most cases owners have spent more money on them than what the car is worth selling on the present day open market. Saving on labor costs by doing your own repairs, modifications and upgrades, can make a big difference in saving your money, but don't forget, it's your valuable time you're giving up for the love of it all. I hope you are doing it for the love of it all. Remember, you can never compare a 40year old car with a new one, no matter how much money you spend on it to bring it up to scratch.
FACT. Conclusion. You own these 123 Mustangs because you love them, and you want the pleasure in owning and driving them around. Like most hobbies and things in life that bring genuine pleasure, they cost serious dollars. Owning these cars is no exception. So as the saying goes, what value do you put on things in your life that brings you genuine happiness and pleasure. You put a lot of value on them. And that my friends, is your money well spent, even if you don't get it back later on.
Greg.
