What does a "YouTube Car Build" truly cost? Your Cost vs Mine.

Рет қаралды 117,864

Күн бұрын

If you want to support the StanceWorks channel and builds, here's the link to the patreon!
/ stanceworks
Be sure to check out www.sendcutsend.com/stanceworks and claim your 15% discount code for fast laser-cut parts!
Be sure to support our friends at H&R Springs for helping bring this Honda-swapped Ferrari project to life:
www.hrsprings.com
Check out Bamikaze Garage here!
/ @bamikazegarage-jv1pz
@BamikazeGarage
Last but not least, check out the rest of the gang that helps to make this project happen:
www.haltech.com
www.rywire.com
www.rsfuture.com
www.csfrace.com
www.garrettmotion.com
www.turbosmart.com
www.vibrantperformance.com

Пікірлер: 672

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

"Comparison is the thief of joy." This episode serves as a reminder that KZfaqrs aren't playing by the same rules as you are - so don't crush your own spirits comparing your own project, progress, or dreams to those you watch on the internet. It wouldn't be fair to say "it's all fake" on KZfaq, because it's not. But to call it reality isn't truthful either. I hope this episode shows that. 🙂

@anthonydavies6980 4 ай бұрын

It makes me wonder when, KZfaq and sponsored parts etc., will reach saturation. Like if I decide to start filming a project I'm doing with no recognition previously for doing anything will enough people watch and subscribe and then in turn would sponsors care to step up at all.

@tractioncontroldelete 4 ай бұрын

So much respect for this post!! Really appreciate you sharing the truth 💪💪

@Simpyspec 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing this...

@zappy7393 4 ай бұрын

I needed this episode, thanks mate.

@KeithHeinrich 4 ай бұрын

Truth, thanks for putting this out there. Years ago I took my car to a dealer to have everything mechanical replaced from the sump plug up under the car, brakes, suspension, everything. "The big job" they called it. We had the car about 17 years and it was well worth the investment. These days I doubt I could afford to do the same thing.

@benzina5917 4 ай бұрын

Golden rule in car building: Never add up your receipts.

@info1418 4 ай бұрын

And always cut the total in half before telling it to your wife.

@benbartow1239 4 ай бұрын

@@info1418😂

@Rawvicious 4 ай бұрын

W answer

@Dmytro-Shcherbyna 4 ай бұрын

I did. Why have I done this...

@tomshouse215 4 ай бұрын

Doing this will result in pain. And the surprising realization of how well non car people can afford to live.

@caseycrowncc 4 ай бұрын

I wish I could show this to some of the non car people who keep asking me when my car will be done. They don't realize how often I have to save up money for a part and then have to wait on that part.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

But also... maybe don't show them. They already think we're idiots 😅

@Shiny_Dragonite 4 ай бұрын

I get asked the saaaaame thing about my car all the time. "When's it gonna be done?" When I have the money saved up. I don't think a lot of non-car people realize how much parts and labor (if you can't do part of it yourself) actually cost.

@alman6581 4 ай бұрын

@@stanceworks And we may be all certifiable. But hey - what a great way to go.

@danielmiller6983 4 ай бұрын

Man that is exactly right

@SawDawify 4 ай бұрын

I had to wait 4 months for rod and main bearings, and almost a year to find the exhaust valves I was looking for on my volvo, not to mention machine shop time. its a loooooooong process doing a ground up build.

@johanvantongeren82 4 ай бұрын

Thank you very much for this episode. As a hobby car builder i watch a lot of youtube and always feel bad I cannot move as fast as the pro’s do, but seeing these numbers makes it a lot less painful. I have to earn my money during the day, keep up a household and then spend whats left over on a car. So time and money is tighter than a fulltime pro with sponsorships. I know that, but sometimes I forget that and that’s why content like this is awesome.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

I'm glad it resonates with you! Keep the spirits up and keep working. It makes the taste of that first drive in your finish project that much sweeter.

@ayoustin6077 4 ай бұрын

I'm sure this will get lost in the sea of comments, BUT as an owner of a small business that makes aftermarket automotive parts it's refreshing to see a content creator be so upfront and thankful about their partnerships. I often ask myself "Are the heavily discounted or free parts we're sending to so-and-so-creator/influencer even worthwhile to my business?" It's definitely a blow to the ego when some folks (certainly not all) hardly say thank you and our stuff barely gets mentioned in their content. This has become one of my favorite channels to watch since I found it, especially as I've had to put off my own passion projects the past couple of years to grow a business that sometimes doesn't feel like it'll ever pay off, but quitting isn't something I'm fond of and seeing Mike continue to pursue his goals regardless of the setback is definitely a massive inspiration. Keep up the awesome work dude, can't wait to see what else is in store!

@802Garage 4 ай бұрын

My friends and I are still relatively small in the automotive social media world, but when we get partnerships, we try to treat them like new members of our car family. The fact that they'll support us means our dreams continue and we want people to know that company has people working there that are helping make our content and everyone's builds possible. It can be hard to feel like we deliver enough value, but we try, and IDK how people can just take stuff and not care about that. Radium Engineering and Link ECU have been absolute game changers for us, for example, and I really hope we have a continuing relationship with both.

@notfred596 4 ай бұрын

I have a question, if you don't mind answering. Being a small business owner that does sponsor out some parts, how did that come about? Did the people come and say "Hey, I'll plug you if you give me parts" or did you discover, watch, and decide to offer to them? Thanks in advance and I hope your business takes off.. boy is it a struggle the first couple years lol

@ayoustin6077 4 ай бұрын

@@notfred596 It's a bit of both, we have had people approach us for sponsorship and I ask them to send me some examples of their existing content and data about their audience or their achievements in the automotive space. The people who are willing to take the time to talk with me and go into details are the ones that tend to be great partners. In other cases I've reached out to creators after finding their content and doing some research beforehand to see if a partnership makes sense. We make platform specific parts so that means I'm looking for creators with cars we make parts for because there is a good chance a portion of their audience has the same car. We've seen success and failure with both approaches so I wouldn't call one better than the other. Their amount of subs/followers doesn't really mean all that much in my experience, rather the creator's level of connection to their audience plays a big role in how well our products are received/looked at/talked about/bought. The guy with 400 followers who interacts and talks with his audience on a personal level at any opportunity has brought us just as much or more traffic than the guy with 400k followers who interacts with some followers/comments in the first hour of content being posted and then never again, doesn't respond or even look at most DMs etc.

@ayoustin6077 4 ай бұрын

@@802Garage being small isn't a bad thing for partnerships at all. We have worked with a few small guys who have been great to work with! Appreciation posts go a long way for building rapport with partners too.

@setitheyeti 4 ай бұрын

@@802Garagelove your channel keep it up

@info1418 4 ай бұрын

This is extremly valuable info for the people watching and wanting to do the same. Rare that youtubers show this.

@ChuckThree 4 ай бұрын

MASSIVE RESPECT for you doing this! Don’t think I’ve ever seen another silver playbutton auto channel lift the veil like you just did. I understand why KZfaqrs are reticent to discuss financials, especially auto build channels where partnerships and sponsors are so imperative to keep a project from stalling out. But in this age of social media the notion of “keeping up with the Jones”-ism has never been stronger and people are ruining their lives in order to flex post on Instagram or whatever. Folks gotta realize these successful KZfaq builds take a lot more support and coordination than the Average Joe gets. But it’s a win win win scenario. These companies have an interactive means to advertise their products that is way better than magazines and forums ever were. Content creators are able to complete new build series in a few weeks or months versus once every year or two (well, some CCs atleast 😉). And the consumers get to see a personality they like/connect with use these products hands on and in a practical manner. You’re one of the most unique creators in this KZfaq automotive scene and (even at +200k subscribers) criminally underrated. Don’t change. Can’t wait for some of that 5 cylinder goodness build to kick off in earnest.

@RandomGuyDan 4 ай бұрын

Tavarish did a nice breakdown of what he spent on his blue McLaren ($450k iirc) and Hoovie is pretty transparent about what he spends on the cars he buys. What Mike did here that I haven't seen anyone else do is provide the retail value of the sponsor parts and a genuine estimate from a shop on the labor value.

@neukin 4 ай бұрын

Mat Armstrong @MatArmstrongbmx usually always has a white board showing costs. Nothing weird about it. Very important and Great info on how to save money too.

@geoffwatches 4 ай бұрын

Yep

@larrylawrence2222 4 ай бұрын

This is pretty spot on. I just resto-modded an International Scout with an LS swap. My frame off restoration came in at about 65k.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

That's a pretty fantastic deal for a frame-off, to be honest! Nicely done.

@TylerRogersUSA 4 ай бұрын

Rad. Looking at doing something similar with my scout. That price tag is spooky. Did you keep the stock suspension? What trans did you end up running?

@larrylawrence2222 4 ай бұрын

@@TylerRogersUSA Its has a 4 inch lift, but is still on leaf springs, and has a rebuilt 4L60e.

@cordite7207 4 ай бұрын

I figured you'd be one of the guys to be transparent on this kind of stuff. There is a lot of downplaying on just what sponsorship, networking and favors some relative fame can afford a car builder

@joeracer302 4 ай бұрын

Or that $5k sponsor fee for slinging some shitty sunglasses or frozen meals, every single episode, that plenty of YT channels get, even on their podcasts.

@user-zn2ll3xr6y 4 ай бұрын

I did my S54 swapped E30 in 2018 and it totalled about 50K at that time. I figured you had about 30K into that swap but glad to see sponsors helping out. I always get a kick when people ask the cost to do a swap properly like this and they are expecting 8-10k.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

I think that's one of the average car enthusiasts' greatest shortcomings: underestimating the cost of the project in front of them. Doing it *right* always costs more than planned, every time, no matter what.

@Boz196 4 ай бұрын

@@stanceworks Whenever I come up with a cost to do something I just double it so that I'm not surprised when I see the actual cost.

@MrPrajitura 4 ай бұрын

I remember asking one of the guys on the E46 M3 Touring FB groups whether his build cost more than 15k (in all honesty I knew it was way more than that) and his reaction was “you’re joking, right?” 🤣

@chrishuyler3580 4 ай бұрын

Numbers check out. I restored an AW11 MR2 a few years ago. Buying parts cars allowed me to convert time into budget money while at the same time obtaining parts I needed. It's a lot of work stripping junkers, posting stuff for sale, and packaging things up and shipping them out, but it turned what would have been a $20k build into a $10k build without having to live stream the process. The key is to buy the nicest one you can afford that only needs repairs you are capable of doing yourself. Had you needed to do a ton of body work and paint, you'd be looking at doubling your all in figure unless a body shop was willing to sponsor you too.

@802Garage 4 ай бұрын

AW11 is supreme. Fix and flip or parting out cars can be crazy lucrative. Good for you.

@samchristian665 4 ай бұрын

As great as all your builds are, it's your honesty that sets your channel apart from a lot of others. It might crush some people's dreams to see the reality of building a car, but it should also make people appreciate the builds out there. And the labour value can not be stressed enough either! A project can easily easily take 200 hours, that's a lot of money.

@monolithmotors3802 4 ай бұрын

I guessed 50K retail and 30K for Mike. - being a youtuber helps more than I thought on cost, but of course you put a ton of labor into making and editing content and lots of behind the scenes work. Thanks for sharing the costs.

@dachine86 4 ай бұрын

Yeah, and he also forgot to add in all of the profits that he made from the build videos. Those would most certainly drop the cost of his build to $0.

@andrewharding4763 4 ай бұрын

This is why Stanceworks is the best channel on KZfaq. Mike, don't ever change your formula.

@RogueViirus12 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing a breakdown like this Mike. Definitely helps set some things into perspective. Sure, you can get some better deals than full retail through patience and part hunting, but at the end of the day it still won't be close to the YTuber discount. Your content still makes me want to build a car though. Just makes me realize I need more cash for what I have planned.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

I didn't take into consideration that this episode could dissuade folks. That's kind of a bummer to think about. I just want to educate folks about what really goes into this stuff, and to remind people KZfaqrs aren't playing by the same rules.

@coreymoranda4845 4 ай бұрын

@@stanceworkspeople won’t be dissuaded if the passion is strong enough. Patience is a virtue and people are responsible for keeping themselves in reality. You did a service on this episode and me and many others I’m sure appreciate it.

@AnttiBrax 4 ай бұрын

@@stanceworks Dissuading is a strong word for saving someone from financial ruin. 😅

@richardallen1629 4 ай бұрын

@@stanceworksI wouldn't worry about that. Providing good, honest information just gives people a better base to make decisions from. People are still going to chase unrealistic dreams and make them happen in spite of dollars and sense! Thx for your honesty.

@Dcastkid 3 ай бұрын

@@stanceworks the cost comparison here brings up a question. You were able to build connections and skills that brought a $45k-$65k project down to $20k. As you point out, ain't exactly pocket change. Ignoring startup costs if you don't have tools & assuming retail costs, how much project can $20k get you if you can DIY? What if you can't?

@hurst_luke 4 ай бұрын

So you are telling me I need to start a KZfaq channel, work my backside off like you for years, build up a substantial following and then I might get some freebies for my car project.....if it was easy everyone would be doing and that is why you deserve it!

@joshflint4636 4 ай бұрын

Great to hear a KZfaqr being honest about cost. We all have those questions, and it is refreshing to have someone with the gall to make a video like this. You produce my favorite KZfaq channel, and I’m always excited when there is a new video to watch. I think a big part of being a fan of StanceWorks is seeing your willingness to take a risk on showing aspects of a build that some merely pass over or are worried to show (I.e. mistakes), but your approach shows the complete picture, at least as much a possible in the world of KZfaq. I look forward to watching what you have planned for 2024.

@TheKoolaidekidd 4 ай бұрын

I rebuilt my 1989 E30 over a period of a year and it cost me 30K doing all of the work except rebuilding the engine, which I had shipped out. I replaced and upgraded everything that could be. I've worked on my cars since I was 16 when I got my first car. I only started doing it because I couldn't afford to have it done by the shop, LOL. What was done: Apex Wheels 8X17 235/17 40 tires Ground Control Coil Overs custom weighted Stainless steel brake lines Willwood Brakes with larger Master Cylinder Replaced all bushings with poly E36 Steering rack Engine rebuilt by Metric Mechanic 1) 3200 Sport Build 2) Pulse Chamber Intake manifold 3) Lightened Flywheel 4) Deep pocketed ported Pistons (No more worry about timing belt breaking issue) 5) H Beam Rods Aluminium radiator Repainted all trim in black Replaced carpet Corbeau sport seats SuperSprint Exhaust UNC Short Shift Kit

@jasonhodrinsky2612 4 ай бұрын

Man, I’ve violated the golden car rule myself and tallied up costs before so I figured I at least had it in the ballpark of $16/$32k but was real off on the top end. Kudos for you for doing this… it’s a real service to younger car folks to peek behind the curtain and know what things really cost.

@fsl4346 4 ай бұрын

It's like with any car company. You have the passionate engineers/designers, and then you have the bean counters. Keep them away from each other. Don't count your receipts, enjoy the hobby. 😂😂 Well done, Mike. 👍🏽

@mkstewet2 4 ай бұрын

I think you miss the point, at your cost and knowing you have exactly what you want I would say you are in the car for a really sane amount. The chances of finding a car that is dead on for what you dream of is quite rare to say the least. You also gained so much knowledge in your builds that adding in what it gained you later really makes some of your projects actually deals. Keep up the good work, you are certainly a role model for many young people to see what getting up and getting dirty can really turn in to.

@mikesweet5848 4 ай бұрын

Bought an '89 last week for $400. Got a used head locally, and got it fired up today. Still have less than $1000 into it. Needless to say I'm pretty stoked.

@1truzilla458 4 ай бұрын

I tried to grow my KZfaq channel with my 2 builds a RB30/26 Nissan Skyline R33 GTR Vspec and 20b FD Rx7(both builds on my channel). But never got it to take off. And I was doing it back in before most of these channels grew. I've owned both for most of my adult life buying the first (RX7) in 2006. (Skyline) 2013. Truth be told, I cannot keep up with other KZfaqrs because I'm paying everything out of pocket. I also believe there are additional factors that play a part in channel growth. This was a good video.

@NevadanNomad 4 ай бұрын

You’re brave for adding them up. I have all the receipts for work I’ve done on my project and just doing quick math in my head is sure to cause a headache. Was also stoked to see a Tuesday episode! Always look forward to your videos.

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

Fingers crossed we get a Friday Ep out too! Thanks for watching :)

@andywest1788 4 ай бұрын

Appreciate the transparency! 👏

@damenh85 4 ай бұрын

Great episode, thanks for sharing!

@boostben 4 ай бұрын

I recently finished building/restoring my Civic from high-school. It's basically a track car with plates but fresh pretty much everything. I had to have the car appraised for insurance as it's technically a classic car, so I went through something like in the video. It wasn't too crazy and the appraiser was actually over my figure which was nice, but wow! It adds up quick and doesn't include 4 years of weekends and weeknights

@TougeTouring 4 ай бұрын

Love the transparency, thank you Mike!

@RobClubley 4 ай бұрын

It’s great to see a KZfaqr being open and honest about this stuff. I think we all know that a lot of stuff is sponsored and that’s fine when you’re doing it as your job. My Rusty Urquattro project had a very optimistic 1 year timeframe and $15k NZD budget. It took 7 years and multiples of my budget, but I got there and can now daily the car. Channels like this are my inspiration and kept me going when it seemed I was over my head, both in mechanical skill and budget. Keep up the great work mate.

@MrPrajitura 4 ай бұрын

Labor costs can get insane with just regular maintenance, let alone on building a car or restoring it. I feel this is something that gets overlooked the most. Everybody knows youtubers are plugging sponsors, what I’m thinking is “yeah, but what would that have costed in labor?” . So even more respect for touching on that aspect.

@massimilianopisaneschi9701 4 ай бұрын

Great content! Really appreciate your approach in sharing and being transparent 👏🏿

@TurbineResearch 4 ай бұрын

Any ~5k used classic bmw will probably need 10k just to get it to the point where it’s daily drivable and fully reliable with all the rubber and consumables replaced imo

@pageophile 4 ай бұрын

Props to you! The honesty is very much appreciated and puts more than a few things in perspective. Big fan of the channel and continue to be impressed 👍

@billcunningham8485 4 ай бұрын

Interesting video. Thanks for making it. I tracked my expenses on my last project car. The reasons why I did it two fold, 1) if I ever sell the car the new owner will know exactly what was done, what parts were used, where they were purchased from and the miles and date the work was completed. The second reason is my sanity. This was the fourth car in a row that I rebuilt. I sort of kept track with guy math on the others that I flipped but not to the penny. I am confident my profits on the previous two paid for my current car… just the car. I can tell you I have $ 9,960.44 total into the car… not including any labor costs outside of the weighted four wheel alignment I had done. I am okay with this amount as I am confident I can sell my 49,000 mile 2006 Mini Cooper S with modest and reversible modifications made for more than I have invested into it. I have it insured for $15K which is about what it would cost to buy the same car with similar miles and condition without the mods.

@russelltaylor3282 4 ай бұрын

Boy, I need to be hanging with you. Good Job!

@CharlesCrawfordIV 4 ай бұрын

Props. Love the transparency.

@jermelescalera4566 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing. I assumed fifteen grand on parts and another ten on a shop doing the work. With the right knowledge and budget three years and fifteen to stay around your price. Great job.

@damianstiep8415 4 ай бұрын

Awesome job! Love your channel. It’s great you do this so people have a more realistic idea into what it cost to build or restore an older car. I’m on the finishing end of my classic mini and it’s been a wild ride. Keep up the good work. Your an inspiration to us all car enthusiasts!

@davidm.d.hyskell8983 4 ай бұрын

I absolutely could NOT love this episode and its transparency any more than I do. This may be one of the best “what did it cost” videos I have ever seen. Content and production quality are simply unmatched in KZfaq by a channel this size and even bigger. Mike, I genuinely enjoy watching every week. Blessings to you.

@justinsellsreo 4 ай бұрын

great vid. nice to see the clarity on build costs for something "simple" like an E30. first time i've ever seen it broken down in such a clear and concise manner.

@jeffcarrington7411 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for keeping it real with the breakdown, helps put things into perspective. Currently building an e28 myself.

@jeffporter7478 4 ай бұрын

Well done, Mike. This brings it home with real clarity.

@williamking576 4 ай бұрын

Excellent video. It was a shocking eye opener!

@ScottCiulei 4 ай бұрын

Thanks Mike, I enjoy hearing about the numbers.

@designsbymas1800 4 ай бұрын

Love transparency videos like this. Even people revealing their mod lists. Really informative to what can be done to these cars.

@k-dog7013 4 ай бұрын

This video is very refreshing to see. The shop labor is the biggest hurdle for me and many other people. Everyone says “just do it yourself”, but not many people have a garage full of tools to work on a project car; or even a garage to work in with how bad real estate is.

@kevincrocker8206 4 ай бұрын

Appreciate the transparency

@RobFromRI 4 ай бұрын

I like this topic and wish more KZfaqrs would do the same. Appreciate the honesty.

@BlackOnBothSides-kw4mx 4 ай бұрын

A phenomenal episode! Your honesty, storytelling and transparency are deeply appreciated in an internet of filtered realities. Thanks for leaning in towards reality as much as you do.

@grrvaes Ай бұрын

Got to know the channel for a different build video but saw this unit on the background and imediately fell in love lol Nice that you have a full video like this. Love it, insane build.

@jonyrho 4 ай бұрын

It's amazing that you put this video together and are transparent to all your viewers Mike. Thanks for sharing the details of the costs which puts it into perspective for the average person.

@paulsinnett85 4 ай бұрын

This is awesome thank you makes me realize what I'm really in for on my build

@andyupsidedown 4 ай бұрын

Insane! Thanks so much for the insight, I think it's really important to hear about this stuff!

@greg19606 4 ай бұрын

It's awesome for you to share this! On the other hand while you saved on the parts with "KZfaqr" connections, it's a ton of work to produce these videos and it's hard to factor that into bottom line. Even taking it as a enjoying sharing the content, the additional work to film/edit the product beauty shots and scripting/approvals from sponsors does start to even the costs out pretty quickly. I was floored by how low the ballpark for labor on that build was, compared to the state of the world that seems really reasonable.

@clausmadsen6754 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for this. Fantastic episode.

@iamchrisg1494 4 ай бұрын

This is an amazing episode. Thanks Mike for showing this. Also really appreciate you doing this on what is essentially a build that can be done with the E30 using "off the shelf" parts unlike the Ferrari (which is all custom) . It really puts into perspective the builds that us normal guys do on our driveways and how much time it takes to save up for that one part that we really want. Glad to see the channel doing well and keep it up.

@ciscovip1 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing that. It really put the perspective on it. Like the car 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾

@sanddrifterjb 4 ай бұрын

Good info. and this is one of the best channels out there IMO. I have an e30 that I am restoring and I feel much better after watching how fast the costs add up. Luckily I have done all of the labor which as you mentioned, is a huge savings and also you will be able to answer any questions because you did the work! I found many of my parts at salvage yards, and although it takes time, I think it has paid dividends. I am a bit fortunate to have raced for some solid companies over the years, so getting a discount or even free parts has been a blessing. I am stoked to have an e30 in my possession and not only are they fun to rip around, but these cars are great to wrench on too. Keep the content coming ......

@rickfresh7959 4 ай бұрын

Love the transparency ,I wish other car tubers would do this , glad I subscribed

@nissan2002 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for being transparent 🙏

@lWZFl 4 ай бұрын

I enjoyed this video a lot, as a person that is constantly thinking about going on KZfaq since I have very interesting cars like a MB 190e 2.3 16v Corsa GSI Mitsubishi Pajero, etc, it was interesting to see the real costs of going into something like this. KZfaq is definitely not all roses, it takes a lot of work and initial investment to start something like this. It was great that you addressed such a tabu topic like this but I’m pretty sure it helped a lot of people understanding the reality of the business. The more videos I see of you the more I realize you are just built different, a total gem in this crazy KZfaq world, it really looks like you are just a regular guy like us, trying to make it out there and also helping everyone of us with as much explanations as possible about the things you do. It’s a pleasure being able to enjoy your videos, really, keep up the good work 👍🏽

@DrNoseWater 4 ай бұрын

Love the transparency!

@stevencapriglione 4 ай бұрын

This was actually a super helpful episode as most people keep this close to the chest, giving the rest of us no idea how to budget for a build, and end up throwing money we don’t have at the project. I wish a video like this would’ve come out sooner

@anthonyboyd1071 4 ай бұрын

thanx, for the transparency, love watching these build shows, but known body reveals the bottom line, so I really appreciate that, and what you are doing. Only wish I had money and space to do my own

@coleBlap 4 ай бұрын

Hot damn, thanks for showing the real cost it takes to build these beasts, I really do respect the transparency a lot of KZfaqrs almost basically refuse to talk about how much they pay versus people who aren’t as fortunate or connected.

@cesarmoran7433 4 ай бұрын

I'm glad you got help and God you got sponsors. Love your channel. I've been following and joining your channel when you started the Ferrari build and I became a fan ever since

@metalmaniac-mu9kt 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for the transparency, it's a rare thing these days. The upside of spending that much is it's "done", as you've mentioned before it's hard to not keep modifying/ improving a project but at least you can have some fun and really enjoy it now. I can't seem to ever finish a project anywhere close to this, mostly due to budget constraints and more than one project at a time. My hat off to you sir.

@DoItYourDream 4 ай бұрын

thanks for the honesty and including labor cost is also fair info

@OliverFoote 4 ай бұрын

Great video on transparency!

@ssenssel 4 ай бұрын

Great video. Everybody loves cost break down content. 👍👍

@am55255 4 ай бұрын

I really appreciate the honesty of this video.

@markmushypeas313 4 ай бұрын

Love the honesty. thnx

@ThoitPremium-bh8kb 4 ай бұрын

Just love that you are so transparent. You see that you just love what you do and don’t do this stuff for more likes etc. Offcourse that’s also import for you, but you do it more “human”. You’re just living the dream!

@ballzbob 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for doing this.

@injeepingwetrust9159 4 ай бұрын

I love your channel. Obviously I’m a jeeper and have built a handful rigs. The truth is I love all builders. You do amazing work. I appreciate you being honest about things cost because I know how things can spiral out control but as far as I’m concerned, it is worth it!!!! Nothing better than driving, racing, or wheeling something you have touched every bolt …. You are awesome keep it up!!!

@DirtSweatGears 4 ай бұрын

I appreciate this transparency. Since my channel isn't monetized yet, I've only gotten a few freebies from friends and car communities that I've been a part of for decades. I wouldn't say this is discouraging, but it does certainly temper expectations. Since I don't have the kind of viewship & clout you do, I just have to accept that my projects will take longer and I'll be spending money that I earn from my day job as a software developer to make it all happen. Will doors open in the future? Maybe. But in the meantime, as long as I'm doing this for the right reasons (NOT for the views) then my time & money is not wasted.

@GrindhousePerformance 4 ай бұрын

It's important to point out that there are also tens of thousands of KZfaq channels that don't get this kind of treatment, and that you've also spent years building and fostering these relationships with your sponsors. You saved $25,000 from continuing to deliver on your promises to these companies over and over again

@gouldnj 4 ай бұрын

Love this Mike. Just sent it to my son who think he can build an E30 with S14 swap for $10-12k. This is after I showed him receipts for his brother’s ‘89 CR-X with B16B that ended up costing me $18k with me doing most of the labor during Covid. Kids, you can’t just stuff them back in…

@stanceworks 4 ай бұрын

He’d be hard pressed to get the S14 by itself for that price, these days! A full S14 swapped car done correctly would cost at least another $15k on top of mine. Bare minimum. That’s if you find a cheap engine and rebuild it yourself.

@MrBluePoochyena 4 ай бұрын

I'm already about 700$ into modifying my 2004 Accord Tourer (EU market Wagon on same chassis as 1G TSX), and am looking at bare minimum of 3000€ to spend just to finish turboing it. And that 700$ estimate is only for a 3" Stainless exhaust system with 200CPSI Hi-Flo Cat, Vibrant Bottle Res & basic ass 3 inch straight through muffler that i welded together myself. If i did include the maintenance during the ownership, well into 1300$ territory total not including the car itself. Cars are one of the most expensive hobbies you can have. At least the 1 benefit i have compared to most others is that I can get my stock ECU tuned for free as i know a Honda stock ECU reverse engineer & tuner which also means i can use the stock ECU even after Turboing. Already running a simple reflash with the new exhaust which with just my buttdyno tells that i have maybe +20hp more than stock now

@mitchriter570 4 ай бұрын

I'm currently wrapping up some bits of my m52b28 swapped e30 touring. I'm more or less into the M52/ZF for free after parting out the rest of the 328, but between buying the car and refreshing the whole motor, clutch, cooling, etc, I'm easily 20k+ into the swap, and I still haven't done the suspension and interior stuff yet. It adds up so quickly, even when wheelin' and dealin' parts with friends an such. I think it's important to see the difference in numbers you shared, and how it may play into some of these other youtuber's builds or collections.

@TheHooniverse 4 ай бұрын

Excellent concept for a video - nice work, Mike

@collinstankard8505 4 ай бұрын

HUGE thank you for this video. It brings a lot of things into perspective. I dont even dare add up the cost of restoring my e30 but what I took away from this is that hard work pays off if you have to pay for everything. I think the current wave of influencers can really lower spirits of car enthusiasts, myself included. But this made me feel much better so big props!

@piasprojects 4 ай бұрын

It is a subject some are hesitant to discuss. Everyone isn't lucky enough to have sponsors but with time and patience they can get costs down. Doing everything yourself is the biggest cost savings for sure. I know I have continued to learn and I work on my projects. My recent decision to start a YT Channel wasn't to get sponsors but mostly to just help document and share the progress of my projects. Keep it up, I like the things you work on and how you explain things!

@nicolelongneckergallery 4 ай бұрын

Great post. It's good to see the truth in pricing. Respect.

@TheSchoolCircle0311 4 ай бұрын

im in the process of rebuilding my e36 vert. prices hurt. i havent done any major work i just keep collecting parts. what gets me is the whole "while your in there". I try not to half ass anything. Its really cool to see a channel drop some serious truths. these cars we all know and love will just keep getting more and more expensive. thanks for what you do. keep it up.

@billbrisson 4 ай бұрын

Great breakdown I have 9K into a 47 Jeep CJ2A and verry little is actually complete! (I have all the engine machining done, parts to reassemble, and transfer case is rebuilt) but still have a lot of things to but (New guts for the T90 Transmission, brakes on all 4 corners, suspension and body....plus plus plus... it doesn't take long to pile up!

@kowalskitk4 4 ай бұрын

Thank you for being honest. I appreciate.

@Frankschtaldt 4 ай бұрын

Thank you fir this video!

@distantcomets 4 ай бұрын

I love this video, actually! Really appreciate the transparency, and for those of us that start to get deluded by what you do into thinking may we need one of these projects in our lives, it's a really helpul warning/heads up. Would love to see this for some of the other star projects on your channel and from other Auto KZfaqrs in general!

@xX_DrgnSlyr69_Xx 4 ай бұрын

I always appreciate transparency on budget for KZfaq builds. So many people nowadays will use crazy numbers as clickbait and what not. Being a KZfaqr is a business like another and I like seeing people being honest about it.

@Shaquille796 4 ай бұрын

Love these type videos from this channel

@bobabreath5097 4 ай бұрын

Refreshingly honest breakdown of cost was awesomely brutal, even for you, I could hear it in your voice. Subscribed. 👍

@mattcook3801 4 ай бұрын

This is a great video. I was in the ballpark but, watching you do this made me want to build one. Then I priced everything and decided to be happy with my F80 M3, because it’s all of a sudden really good value. I think videos like this are important, as much as the build videos themselves. Inspire people to build something themselves, but also be real about the investment required so people don’t jump in then find out later and the world ends up with more half finished projects.

@SentenzaSenpai 4 ай бұрын

That's honorable to you to talk about money on this type of project. 2x difference is not a huge surprise for who knows price of Eurocars (Germans to be fair) parts, and i'm French lol. Where i'm more curious (i don't want to know but it's an amount of money to take count of) is the amount of youtube money that series brings to you. Huge respect for your purism!

@TheWesman45 4 ай бұрын

60k is in the ballpark of what I would expect, if not a bit more. Engine swaps and rebuilds are no joke.

@MarkMyWordsXx 4 ай бұрын

Thanks for doing this

@piotrfriedberg8659 4 ай бұрын

thank you for this episode, this is so true. I am just finalizing very similar built right now, but mine was more complex as I did all the bodywork and full painting of the car. Agree with the cost that you presented here.

@mikeybee4358 4 ай бұрын

I love that you made this episode and are as transparent as you are.

@markevans5596 4 ай бұрын

I'm about to start my restoration of an Audi I've owned for 18 years, until now I just kept the car on the road but over the last year I have amassed everything (hopefully) to achieve a really nice restomod. One thing I would say is that I don't compromise on part quality (eg my parts list includes H&M, AP, OZ, 034 etc etc) but I spend time researching prices, snap up sale offers and almost always ask for a discount if buying several parts. Cool video, hi from Europe 👍

@jaioxung 4 ай бұрын

Appreciate the transparency. It illustrates the immense privilege that visibility and an audience provides someone and why a regular person is better off buying than building.

@jimgerock9190 4 ай бұрын

Thank you! This is something most folks don’t understand- especially labor costs.

@bernardkealey6449 4 ай бұрын

I’m not a car guy, I watch a lot of car restoration vids for the creative buzz. The figures don’t surprise me, and was really pleased to see this breakdown as it puts the whole process into perspective. Kudos to you for your transparency, not only is it a good thing for your viewers, it’s also a much better service to your sponsors than most KZfaqrs perform. And yeah - the biggest ticket item is the labor, can definitely understand that one.