How To Find And Buy Kindig-it Design Cars For Sale: The Ultimate Collector's Guide
For automotive enthusiasts and serious collectors, the name Dave Kindig represents the absolute pinnacle of custom car design and fabrication. Based out of Salt Lake City, Utah, Kindig-it Design has spent decades transforming classic muscle cars, hot rods, and vintage trucks into rolling works of art. Thanks to the massive global success of the television show Bitchin' Rides, the demand for Kindig-it creations has skyrocketed, making genuine kindig cars for sale some of the most highly sought-after vehicles in the collector car market.
Acquiring one of these automotive masterpieces is not as simple as visiting a local dealership. Because each build requires thousands of hours of meticulous, handcrafted labor, very few of these vehicles exist worldwide. Prospective buyers must understand the nuances of the custom car market, navigate premier auction houses, and recognize what makes a Kindig-it build worth its premium price tag. This comprehensive guide explores how to locate, evaluate, and purchase these legendary machines.
The Legacy of Dave Kindig and Kindig-it Design
To truly appreciate why these vehicles command premium prices, one must understand the level of craftsmanship that goes into every project. Founded in 1999 by Dave and Charity Kindig, Kindig-it Design operates out of a massive, state-of-the-art facility in Salt Lake City. Dave's unique design philosophy combines classic, elegant lines with modern performance, custom metal fabrication, and revolutionary custom components—such as his patented flush-fitting door handles.
Every vehicle built by the shop is treated as a unique canvas. From custom-built Roadster Shop chassis and bespoke EVOD wheels to flawless, multi-stage paint jobs using Kindig’s signature AkzoNobel Modern Classikk paint line, no detail is overlooked. The shop's ability to seamlessly blend vintage aesthetics with cutting-edge performance tech is what makes these vehicles stand out at prestigious events like the SEMA Show and the Grand National Roadster Show.
Because these builds are customized to the original owner's exact specifications, they rarely enter the secondary market. When they do, they generate massive buzz among high-net-worth collectors, classic car investors, and fans of the show who want to own a piece of automotive television history.
Where to Find Genuine Kindig Cars for Sale
Finding a authentic Kindig-it Design car for sale requires patience, networking, and a keen eye on the premier collector car markets. Because of their value, these cars are almost never found on standard classified websites. Instead, they circulate through highly specialized channels.
Premier Collector Car Auctions
The most common place to find a Kindig-it car for sale is at high-end collector car auctions. Dave Kindig and his team frequently showcase completed builds at major events, and previous clients often use these platforms to liquidate their collections. Keep a close eye on the run lists for these major auction houses:
- Barrett-Jackson: Known as "The World's Greatest Collector Car Auctions," Barrett-Jackson frequently features Kindig-it builds, especially at their flagship Scottsdale, Arizona event.
- Mecum Auctions: Another massive platform where custom restomods and high-profile television cars frequently cross the block.
- RM Sotheby's: For highly exclusive, award-winning custom builds that border on fine art, RM Sotheby's is a prime venue.
Direct Commissions and the CF1 Series
If you want a brand-new vehicle built directly by the shop, you can contact Kindig-it Design to commission a custom build. However, the waitlist for a full "one-of-one" custom build can stretch several years. To meet the high demand, Kindig-it launched the CF1 Roadster series. The CF1 is a custom, carbon-fiber-bodied tribute to the 1953 Corvette, featuring a custom Roadster Shop chassis, a massive Lingenfelter LS7 engine, and bespoke interior styling. Purchasing a CF1 directly from the shop or finding a build slot is one of the most reliable ways to secure a brand-new Kindig creation.
High-End Custom Car Brokers
Occasionally, specialized exotic and classic car brokerages will secure a Kindig-it build on consignment. Establishing relationships with reputable brokers who specialize in pro-touring and restomod vehicles can give you early access to off-market deals before the cars are publicly listed or sent to auction.
Supercharged 383-Powered 1949 Chevrolet Pickup by Kindig-It Design for ...
Cost Analysis: What Does a Kindig-it Build Cost?
Owning a vehicle of this caliber requires a significant financial investment. The cost of a Kindig-it car depends heavily on the build's complexity, the donor vehicle used, the level of custom fabrication, and the car's historical significance (such as being featured on Bitchin' Rides).
The table below provides a realistic comparison of what buyers can expect to pay for various categories of Kindig-it builds compared to standard high-end custom builds.
| Build Type | Estimated Price Range (USD) | Key Features & Specifications | Primary Sales Channels |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kindig-it CF1 Roadster | $350,000 - $450,000+ | Full carbon-fiber body, custom Roadster Shop chassis, Lingenfelter LS7 V8, custom wheels, bespoke leather interior. | Direct commission, specialized auctions. |
| One-of-One Custom Build | $500,000 - $1,000,000+ | Complete ground-up metal fabrication, bespoke chassis, supercharged LT4/LS9, completely unique interior, show winner. | Direct commission from Salt Lake City shop. |
| Pre-Owned Restomod (Classic) | $250,000 - $450,000 | Custom build from previous years, modernized drivetrain (LS3/Coyote), custom suspension, signature Kindig paint. | Barrett-Jackson, Mecum, high-end brokers. |
| Standard High-End Restomod | $150,000 - $250,000 | Built by other reputable shops, high-quality components, but lacks the global brand prestige and TV pedigree. | Classic car dealerships, online auction sites. |
The Pros and Cons of Owning a Kindig Custom Car
Before investing mid-six-figure sums into a custom vehicle, it is vital to weigh the advantages and challenges of owning a bespoke machine of this caliber.
The Advantages
- Unmatched Prestige and Pedigree: Driving a Kindig-it car instantly commands respect at any automotive gathering, local cars and coffee, or national car show. The brand recognition associated with Dave Kindig adds an intangible value that standard custom builds simply cannot match.
- Exceptional Build Quality: Unlike amateur builds, Kindig-it cars are engineered to perform. The integration of modern suspension systems, high-performance disc brakes, and reliable fuel-injected crate engines ensures these cars drive as beautifully as they look.
- Strong Investment Potential: Due to their scarcity and high demand, Kindig-it cars tend to hold their value exceptionally well compared to other custom vehicles, which often depreciate immediately after completion.
The Challenges
- High Cost of Maintenance and Repairs: Because almost every panel, bracket, and interior piece is custom-fabricated, replacing damaged parts is not as simple as ordering from an auto parts catalog. Repairs often require specialized fabrication skills or shipping the car back to Utah.
- The "Too Nice to Drive" Dilemma: Many owners find themselves hesitant to drive these vehicles on public roads due to the risk of rock chips, road debris, and accidents. Consequently, these cars often spend most of their lives in climate-controlled garages or on display trailers.
- Extensive Acquisition Timelines: If you choose to commission a new build or purchase a CF1, you must be prepared for a multi-month or multi-year waiting period as the vehicle is hand-built to perfection.
Understanding the Commissioning Process vs. Buying Secondary Market
For collectors who demand absolute perfection, commissioning a brand-new vehicle directly from the Salt Lake City shop is the ultimate experience. This process begins with an in-depth design consultation with Dave Kindig himself. Dave translates the client's vision into a stunning, hand-drawn rendering. Once the design is finalized, the team sources a donor vehicle or a custom chassis to begin the fabrication process. Throughout the build, clients receive regular updates and can watch their dream car come to life, sometimes even featuring on an episode of Bitchin' Rides.
On the other hand, purchasing a pre-owned Kindig-it car from the secondary market offers immediate gratification. There is no waiting list, and you know the exact final cost upfront without the risk of budget overruns. However, secondary-market buyers must accept the vehicle exactly as it was built for the original owner, meaning you lose the ability to customize the colors, drivetrain, and interior layout to your personal tastes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a custom car from Kindig-it Design cost?
A fully custom, one-of-one build from Kindig-it Design typically starts at around $400,000 and can easily exceed $1,000,000 depending on the complexity of the fabrication, engine selection, and interior customization. The semi-production CF1 Roadster series generally starts in the $350,000 to $450,000 range.
How can I verify that a car for sale is a genuine Kindig-it build?
Due to the high value of these cars, buyers should always verify authenticity. You can request build documentation, receipts, and photos of the build process from the seller. Additionally, you can contact Kindig-it Design directly with the vehicle's details to confirm if it was built at their Salt Lake City facility.
Can I buy the custom parts used on Kindig cars?
Yes. Kindig-it Design sells many of their custom-engineered parts directly to the public through their online store. This includes their famous patented flush-mount door handles, custom exhaust tips, and branded apparel.
Are Kindig-it custom cars street-legal?
Yes, the vast majority of Kindig-it builds are fully street-legal. They are built on modern custom chassis with headlights, taillights, seatbelts, and modern braking systems. However, emissions compliance can vary depending on your local state or country laws regarding classic vehicle registrations.
Secure Your Dream Custom Ride Today
Whether you are looking to turn heads at your local car show, add a crowning jewel to your private automotive museum, or experience the raw thrill of driving a hand-crafted restomod, a Kindig-it Design vehicle is the ultimate acquisition. While finding a kindig car for sale requires patience and financial readiness, the reward of owning a vehicle built by one of the world's premier fabrication shops is unmatched.
Begin your search today by monitoring upcoming docket lists at major collector car auctions, reaching out to high-end classic car brokers, or contacting the Kindig-it Design team directly in Salt Lake City to discuss a bespoke commission or a CF1 Roadster build slot. Take the first step toward putting a legendary, bitchin' ride in your garage.
