We have this discussion often in our motorcycle circles and it really boils down to personal taste. I once thought freshly restored bikes were the pinnacle of the vintage world but these days it's all about original for me. I love seeing the lifespan of the vehicle before me, all the stories it must have, where it's been and who's owned it. I'm old and battered myself, with stories to go along. I think if you restore it mechanically and clean every crevice it will look like a million bucks. Remember- it's only original once.