Geez Grumpy, you seem to be quite negative. AACA is not only for those who spend mega bucks. There is no extra credit for over restoration! I had a 1964 T-Bird Convertible that we got Senior and Preservation awards back in the 90s. I did everything myself, except I paid a shop $4500 to paint it, and a trim shop to recover my front buckets with new white leather and install a new white top. My 70 Bonneville (owned 37 years), my 72 Cutlass Convertible and my 72 Cheyenne have all received 2nd and 3rd Junior awards in national AACA shows. All nice vehicles, but none perfect or trailer queens, but they are as correct as I can make them. If I invested in bias ply tires, each would probably be able to attain First Junior (5 radial tires is 25 point deduction).
My Bonneville has been just about completely rebuilt by me in my home garage over an on again, off again restoration over 12 years. I completely rebuilt the engine, brakes, front end, replaced all the fuel and brake lines and paid a shop $6000 to paint it. I have purchased bias belted tires and refinished the Rally II wheels. When I finish the interior, I am confident it will win a First Junior, then a Senior. Me? I am a retired office equipment salesman, not a professional mechanic and I am definitely not a wealthy owner who spends mega-buck to restore my cars.
Don't confuse AACA with shows that only $100,000 and up restorations have a prayer of winning anything.
www.aaca.org