If you’re retired, the definition of free time becomes something that changes dramatically. You no longer have to head into work at 8 AM, and you can spend as much time as you want relaxing at home or doing whatever you want. The only limitation to how much free time you have is your own desire to do something different than what you’ve been doing for decades every day.
It’s cheaper than buying a car
When you are retired, money isn’t as easy to come by. This means that if you want to buy something, it will have to be something sensible, like a boat or an RV or property on the beach. But there’s one exception and that is the project car. Just because you are retired doesn’t mean you can’t still indulge your love for cars in different ways. That’s where a project car comes in. It allows you to use what little resources you do have for buying parts or tools, and it also lets you bond with other enthusiasts who share your passion. It might not give you the same thrill that driving around town did when you were younger, but there’s nothing quite like owning a piece of automotive history. In addition, working on a classic car gives you more of a sense of accomplishment than simply cruising down the highway in a new ride. And finally, after all that hard work and sweat equity, you get to drive it every day!
It takes your mind off stress
I think some people are surprised when they retire and find themselves bored because they didn’t make time for hobbies before retiring. I’ve always had an interest in cars, so I started restoring one in my retirement. It’s been really satisfying to take on this hobby with no time constraints because I do it mostly in the evenings after work or over the weekend. Since it takes my mind off any stress that’s happening, its great to have that little outlet to get away from work and just have fun. I also enjoy sharing what I know about cars and seeing the reaction of others. Being retired has definitely given me a new outlook on life, but having this project car has made things even better!
You meet new people
One of the benefits I found in having a project car after retirement is that you meet new people. Since my interest in cars is more obscure than most, it brings out people who share similar interests and may not have been around otherwise. My favorite experience with this was when I went to an annual Porsche event and we had drinks together. It’s fun being able to converse about cars without someone feeling like they have nothing in common with me.
I also met up with a friend from work and he helped me restore some parts for my car. He lives five hours away so I didn’t know him well before then but now we text regularly.
It gives you something to do when you are bored
Starting a new business or project can be exciting, but it’s also hard work. You’ll have to deal with difficult tasks such as fundraising and starting from the ground up. Retirees often face boredom and depression, which is why having a project car for when you’re retired can provide additional fulfillment and purpose. A side gig will give you something to do while not working full-time and add some excitement into your life. Not only that, but it will keep your brain sharp by solving problems, learning new skills and boosting your self-confidence. If you are feeling lonely and want to meet new people, this might be the perfect way to do so too!
Perfect project cars can be found anywhere
You might be asking yourself, Why should I spend time and money on restoring a car that is going to end up in the garage? And we have heard this question before. But we always come back with the same answer: just do it. It can give you that sense of pride and accomplishment, plus it’s fun! Besides, if you’re looking for a project car after retirement then there are plenty out there waiting for someone to take them on and fix them up. We recommend picking something off your bucket list like restoring an old muscle car or truck so when you get tired of the project it will remind you of all the good times spent working on it together as a family.
The satisfaction of finishing your own project
This satisfaction is what I seek when choosing a project car. I enjoy the journey as much as the end result. I love knowing that I can learn new skills, such as welding or engine rebuilding, and share those skills with others through my work. Plus, I know that my hard work will pay off in the end when people look at my finished project car and say wow. The benefits are great for me, but there are also many benefits for other people. My friends often come over to help me out on the weekends because they love the experience too. It’s amazing how a project car can bring so many people together to create something special. There’s something about being able to sit back and admire your creation that makes it all worth it!
