Building a custom car is a labor of love, a fusion of art and engineering that requires immense skill, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of automotive design and mechanics.
When it comes to custom car builders, few names carry as much prestige as Martin Brothers Customs, the star of the hit TV show “Iron Resurrection.“
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the world of custom car building, exploring the intricate process, the factors that influence cost, and what you can expect to pay for a one-of-a-kind creation from the masters at Martin Brothers.
Factors That Impact the Cost
The cost of a custom car can vary significantly depending on a multitude of factors. Here are some key considerations:
The Starting Point
- Is it a ground-up build from scratch or a restoration project?
- The condition and rarity of the donor car (if restoring)
- The complexity of the desired modifications
Design and Engineering
- The intricacy of the custom design and fabrication work required
- The need for specialized skills and expertise (e.g., metalwork, upholstery)
- The time and effort required for computer-aided design (CAD) modeling
Materials and Finishes
- The quality and cost of raw materials (steel, aluminum, chrome, etc.)
- The type and complexity of the desired paint job or exterior finish
- The materials used for interior upholstery and trim work
Performance Upgrades
- Engine modifications, rebuilds, or complete swaps
- Suspension and chassis upgrades for improved handling
- Braking system upgrades for better stopping power
Exclusive Features
- Integrating cutting-edge technology (e.g., touchscreens, advanced safety systems)
- Incorporating rare or custom-made components
- Adding unique aesthetic touches (e.g., one-off badges, emblems)
Time and Labor
- The total hours required for the build, which can range from hundreds to thousands
- The hourly rate of the shop and individual craftsmen involved
Overhead and Profit
- The shop’s operating costs, including rent, utilities, and equipment maintenance
- The desired profit margin for the business
The Price Range for a Martin Brothers Custom Car
Given the vast array of variables involved, the cost of a Martin Brothers custom car can span a wide range. According to industry experts and customer testimonials, a typical build from Martin Brothers Customs can cost anywhere from $100,000 to well over $1 million.
For a straightforward restoration project with modest modifications, you can expect to pay in the range of $100,000 to $300,000. However, if you’re looking for a ground-up build with extensive customization, cutting-edge technology, and high-end materials, the cost can easily surpass $500,000 or even reach into the millions.
Martin Brothers Custom Car Pricing: What to Expect
While the final cost can be staggering, it’s important to remember that you’re not just paying for a car you’re paying for a work of art, a rolling sculpture that embodies the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship. Martin Brothers Customs is renowned for their attention to detail, their ability to bring even the wildest visions to life, and their unwavering commitment to quality.
When you commission a build from Martin Brothers, you can expect:
- A collaborative design process, where your ideas are meticulously translated into detailed CAD models and renderings
- The use of top-quality materials, from high-grade steel and aluminum to premium leathers and exotic wood veneers
- Cutting-edge fabrication techniques, including CNC machining, TIG welding, and precision metalwork
- Skilled labor from master craftsmen with decades of experience in automotive restoration and customization
- Thorough testing and quality control at every stage of the build process
- A car that not only turns heads but also delivers exceptional performance and reliability
Iron Resurrection
No discussion of Martin Brothers Customs would be complete without mentioning the hit TV show “Iron Resurrection” which has brought the world of custom car building into the living rooms of millions of viewers worldwide.
How Did Iron Resurrection Get Started?
“Iron Resurrection” was born from the partnership between Joe Martin, the founder of Martin Brothers Customs, and the team at Velocity (now MotorTrend). The show’s premise was simple: take classic, often forgotten cars and transform them into stunning, one-of-a-kind creations that blend old-school charm with modern engineering and design.
What is Iron Resurrection About?
At its core, “Iron Resurrection” is a celebration of automotive ingenuity and craftsmanship. Each episode follows the Martin Brothers team as they tackle a new project, from sourcing the perfect donor car to conceptualizing the design, fabricating custom parts, and finally unveiling the finished product.
Along the way, viewers get an inside look at the challenges, triumphs, and personalities that make up the Martin Brothers Customs family. From the meticulous attention to detail required for metalwork and upholstery to the engineering feats involved in engine swaps and suspension upgrades, “Iron Resurrection” offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of custom car building.
Cost of Having a Car Built by Iron Resurrection
While the show itself doesn’t delve too deeply into the financial aspect of each build, it’s clear that the cars featured on “Iron Resurrection” are far from budget projects. Based on industry estimates and the level of customization involved, it’s safe to assume that most of the builds showcased on the show likely cost anywhere from $200,000 to $500,000 or more.
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Can You Visit Iron Resurrection?
For fans of the show who want to experience the magic of Martin Brothers Customs in person, the good news is that the shop does offer tours. Located in Texas, the Martin Brothers facility welcomes visitors who want to see the skilled craftsmen at work and get a behind-the-scenes look at ongoing projects.
Tour prices and availability can vary, so it’s best to check the Martin Brothers Customs website or contact them directly for the latest information.
What Happened to Manny from Iron Resurrection?
One of the standout personalities on “Iron Resurrection” was Manny Duarte, a talented fabricator and fan favorite known for his no-nonsense attitude and exceptional metalworking skills. Sadly, in 2021, Manny passed away at the age of 62, leaving a void in the Martin Brothers Customs family and the hearts of fans worldwide.
His legacy, however, lives on in the countless custom cars he helped create and the countless lives he touched through his passion for the craft.
Iron Resurrection Cars for Sale
While the cars featured on “Iron Resurrection” are often commissioned by private clients or kept as part of the Martin Brothers Customs collection, there have been instances where some of these one-of-a-kind creations have been put up for sale.
These rare opportunities allow automotive enthusiasts and collectors to own a piece of automotive history, a rolling work of art that showcases the finest in custom car building. Prices for these vehicles can range from hundreds of thousands to millions of dollars, depending on the level of customization, rarity, and demand.
Martin Brothers Customs Hourly Rate
One of the key factors that contribute to the cost of a Martin Brothers Customs build is the hourly rate charged by the shop and its skilled craftsmen. While the exact rate is not publicly disclosed, industry estimates suggest that Martin Brothers Customs likely charges anywhere from $150 to $300 per hour for their labor.
This rate reflects the immense skill, experience, and attention to detail required for each project, as well as the overhead costs of operating a world-class custom car shop. It’s important to note that these rates are not set in stone and can vary depending on the complexity of the project, the specific skills required, and the overall scope of work.
Who Owns Martin Brothers on Iron Resurrection?
The driving force behind Martin Brothers Customs and the star of “Iron Resurrection” is Joe Martin, a passionate automotive enthusiast and entrepreneur. Joe founded Martin Brothers Customs in 1994, initially focusing on automotive upholstery and interior work.
Over the years, the company expanded its services to include full-scale custom car builds, restorations, and fabrication work, quickly gaining a reputation for exceptional quality and attention to detail. Today, Martin Brothers Customs is a family-run operation, with Joe’s sons and other relatives playing key roles in the day-to-day operations and project management.
Understanding the Craftsmanship
At the heart of every Martin Brothers Customs creation lies a deep respect for automotive craftsmanship and a relentless pursuit of perfection. Here’s a closer look at some of the key aspects that contribute to the unparalleled quality of their work:
Design and Engineering
The design process at Martin Brothers Customs is a collaborative effort, where the client’s vision is meticulously translated into detailed CAD models and renderings. These digital representations serve as blueprints for the build, ensuring that every component is carefully planned and executed with precision.
The engineering team at Martin Brothers also plays a crucial role, ensuring that each custom creation not only looks stunning but also delivers exceptional.
Materials and Finishes
The choice of materials and finishes is an integral part of the Martin Brothers Customs experience. From high-grade steel and aluminum to premium leathers and exotic wood veneers, only the finest materials are used in their builds.
One of the hallmarks of a Martin Brothers creation is the impeccable paint work and exterior finishes. Their team of experienced painters and detailers use state-of-the-art techniques to achieve flawless, show-quality paint jobs that can range from classic solid colors to intricate custom designs and graphics.
Inside, the attention to detail is just as impressive. The upholstery team at Martin Brothers Customs is renowned for their ability to create stunning interiors that blend modern luxury with classic automotive styling. From hand-stitched leather seats to custom-fabricated dashboard and door panel inserts, every element is crafted with meticulous care and precision.
Performance Upgrades
While aesthetics are undoubtedly a major focus, Martin Brothers Customs also excels in the realm of performance upgrades. Their team of skilled mechanics and engineers can transform even the most modest classic car into a modern performance powerhouse.
Engine rebuilds, swaps, and modifications are a common occurrence, with the team expertly integrating modern powerplants and fuel delivery systems into classic chassis. Suspension and chassis upgrades are also a specialty, with custom-fabricated components and adjustable coilover systems designed to improve handling and ride quality.
Braking systems are not overlooked either, with upgrades to larger discs, calipers, and performance pads ensuring that these custom creations can stop as well as they accelerate.
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Exclusive Features
One of the hallmarks of a true Martin Brothers Customs build is the incorporation of exclusive, one-off features that set each creation apart from the rest. From cutting-edge technology like touchscreen infotainment systems and advanced safety features, to custom-made badges, emblems, and aesthetic touches, no detail is too small to be overlooked.
These exclusive features not only enhance the overall driving experience but also serve as a reminder of the level of craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into every Martin Brothers Customs build.
The Price Tag
With such an intricate and labor-intensive process, it’s no surprise that a Martin Brothers Customs creation commands a premium price tag. While the exact cost can vary widely depending on the specific project, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect:
- Modest Restoration Project: For a straightforward restoration of a classic car, with minor modifications and updates, you can expect to pay anywhere from $100,000 to $300,000.
- Ground-Up Custom Build: If you’re looking for a ground-up custom build, where every aspect of the car is customized to your specifications, be prepared to invest anywhere from $300,000 to $1 million or more.
- Ultra-Exclusive, One-Off Creations: For truly unique, one-of-a-kind builds that incorporate cutting-edge technology, exotic materials, and extensive customization, the cost can easily surpass $1 million.
It’s important to note that these figures are just rough estimates, and the final cost can be influenced by a multitude of factors, including the complexity of the project, the materials used, the level of customization, and the desired performance upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do the cars on Iron Resurrection cost?
Cars on Iron Resurrection typically cost between $50,000 to $200,000, depending on the level of customization.
Is Amanda Martin still married to Joe Martin?
Yes, Amanda Martin is still married to Joe Martin.
Who are the owners of Martin Brothers Customs?
The owners of Martin Brothers Customs are Joe Martin and his wife, Amanda Martin.
Why did Shorty leave Martin Brothers?
Shorty left Martin Brothers due to creative differences and pursuing new opportunities.
Does Shorty still work at Martin Brothers Customs?
No, Shorty no longer works at Martin Brothers Customs.
Conclusion
Commissioning a custom car from Martin Brothers Customs is more than just a purchase it’s an investment in automotive artistry a celebration of craftsmanship. It’s a testament to the enduring passion for automotive design and engineering.
While the cost may be steep, those who have had the privilege of owning a Martin Brothers creation will attest. The end result is a truly priceless work of art, a rolling sculpture that embodies the pinnacle of automotive craftsmanship.
Whether you’re a lifelong car enthusiast, a discerning collector or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life a Martin Brothers Customs car is a statement piece. It will turn heads and ignite passions for generations to come.
