A rare Lexus LFA, one of only 500 models ever produced, recently sustained significant damage when the driver lost control in wet conditions and crashed into a fire hydrant. However, due to the car’s higher current market value, the decision has been made to not salvage but instead to undertake the expensive and lengthy repairs. This article elaborates on the accident and discusses the imperative restoration process, despite the damage and high repair costs.
The Accident and Damage Assessment
The owner of the Lexus LFA recounted, having lost control of the vehicle at a car event in Georgia back in January, hydroplaning on wet surfaces and colliding with a fire hydrant. The superficial damage to the vehicle is extensive. The carbon fiber on the passenger door appeared shredded, the tail lights and areas of the rear bumper were missing, and the driver’s side rear quarter panel was heavily damaged as well. Additionally, the wheels were bent, the glass broken, and the high-performance triple-exit exhaust system significantly damaged. Interestingly, however, the airbags remained undeployed and the interior, as well as the engine bay, seemed to be in fine condition.
The Peculiarity of Lexus LFA’s Repairs
The Lexus LFA isn’t your typical car where you can buy cheap replacement parts from a junkyard. Since only a few of these supercars were manufactured, its replacement parts are exclusive and harder to find – meaning the repairs won’t be cheap. Based on the owner’s assessment and current condition of the vehicle, the estimated repairs are projected to cost between $400,000 and $500,000. The door alone would cost around $40,000 to replace.
Economic Logic for Repairing
If the car had an estimated worth approximately to its original price tag of $375,000, it would probably be sold for parts at an auction. Presently, the auction prices for this rare model range between $800,000 and a million dollars. With this in mind, it is more economical and makes more sense to repair and restore the vehicle instead of selling it. The actual value of such a car is significantly higher than the price of a new Ferrari 812.
Time Frame for Repair Process
Due to the severity of the damage and the rarity of parts required, the repairs on this Lexus LFA are predicted to take upwards of a year. Even though the repairs are expensive and take some time, it is a logical decision.
Significance of the Restoration
It’s always heartbreaking to see a supercar involved in an accident, especially a rare and legendary model like the Lexus LFA. The commitment to restore such a vehicle is a testament to the inherent value and reverence for such a machine. It will be intriguing to see this wrecked supercar restored to its former glory. Every effort taken in this direction also contributes to preserving the legacy of such iconic models.