[josephvman]

The cost of parts and service has definitely gone up significantly, even before this latest general inflationary cycle we're in. It also seem to me that there are a lot more shops that "specialize" in air-cooled cars, but many young, inexperienced techs who have a lot more enthusiasm for the cars than actual knowledge or expertise. There are more places to bring these cars, but the reality is that there are probably fewer really qualified and experienced guys turning the wrenches.

It also seems like a proliferation of backdated custom builds, and while original collector-grade cars will always bring the big money, I'm surprised at how much people will pay for wide-body builds with RSR wheels and Singer-inspired details.