[Snakebit]

An interesting quote from Jay Leno. "I like to restore a car to a 100 points then drive it down to a 70." These cars are meant to be driven. Don't draft tractor trailers carring a load of sand. There are ways to protect the front areas and rear fender flairs with clear 3M chip guard film. I painted my own car. The cost for paint PPG base and clear was over $1500, not counting body filler, sand paper, guide coat, Epoxy primer, High build primer, thinners, paint prep cleaners, spray guns, compressor, water and air filters. resporator, masking tape, paper, tack cloths, paint suites, and more. $5000-$8000 for a paint job is worth every penny!

For what it would cost you to buy a good ERA 427 and have it repainted, you could have ERA build you one in the color you like.