The first guy is giving an honest estimate of a job that will stand the test of time for the condition of the car that you describe. It may even be an exellent price for the work that sounds like needing to be done. The second does not understand what he is getting into. The third is just wanting the job and is doing as cheap, (lousy), a job as is available.

$10,000 actually sounds like a realistic price for this kind of work?

I want the car to look as good as new, and last many years, but it doesn't have to be a museum piece. How can they sell NEW cars for $8000 if it costs $10,000 to paint an old one.

I am not being sarcastic; I really AM trying to learn and understand.

Thanks,
Robert