it is really not fair because I have a 67 cuda that is a big block car and it was in pieces when I got it and there was no build sheet and I think the fender I got with it might be the wrong one. no documents on the one car I have that I would like to have it .....yet
on the other hand I have this big brown wagon that was a 318 car (WP45F8 ) and its a mutt of a car and was never really worth much compared to pedigree cars yet I have the numbers matching driveline (318/904) and build sheets and fender tag and glove box full of history.
this is not fair....i wish it was the other way around
Unfortunately, that's usually the way it works.
People that bought "hotrod" cars (even used ones), tended to be a bit crazier, and less concerned with keeping things.
People that bought sedate and/or utilitarian cars tended to be more concerned with keeping them neat, unmodified and documented.
I know it's "profiling", but that's just the way it goes.
...also for every 100 "utilitarian" cars where people didn't care...there is probably
one "hotrod" where the owners (or owners), kept everything and documented everything.
My RL21G3 (318 ) Satellite had all the paperwork, multiple build sheets, service records for 10 years, and only five modifications from stock (CB, R134, dual exhaust, Keystones, sway bars).
My WP29P2 (400-4 ) Charger is a complete mess with two repaints, rusty quarters, roof, and fenders, collision damage, and wonderful dice lock knobs, among other things.
My WH23G6 (383-4 ) Coronet has dents on nearly every body panel and the K frame, despite being nearly rust free.