Single-Stage Paint
A one-step paint system where color and gloss are combined in a single product. The way they painted cars in 1967—and the way you can still paint them today if you value ease of repair over Instagram-worthy depth.
What 'Single-Stage Paint' Actually Means
Single-stage paint (also called "single-stage enamel" or "acrylic enamel") is a paint system where the color pigment and the protective clear coat are mixed together in one product. You spray it on, it dries, and you're done—no separate clear coat required.
How it works:
- Color and gloss in one product
- Apply 2-4 coats depending on coverage
- Buff to desired shine level
- No clear coat layer
Compare to base coat/clear coat:
- Base/clear: Color coat (no gloss) + separate clear coat (all the gloss)
- Single-stage: Color and gloss together in one step
This is how Ford painted your Mustang at the factory in 1965-1973. It's also how many restoration shops still paint driver-quality cars today because it's more forgiving, easier to repair, and costs 30-40% less than modern base/clear systems.
I painted my Mustang with single-stage because I actually drive it. Rock chips happen. Door dings happen. With single-stage, I can wet-sand and buff out damage or touch up chips myself. With base/clear, every rock chip requires professional blending because the base coat looks terrible without clear over it.
Why It Matters for Your Mustang
Single-stage paint makes sense for specific builds and budgets:
Best for:
- Driver-quality builds - Cars you actually drive and park in public
- Period-correct restorations - Factory-original appearance
- Budget-conscious builds - 30-40% less than base/clear
- DIY-friendly repairs - You can touch up chips and scratches yourself
- Owners who value practicality - Less beautiful, more livable
Not ideal for:
- Show-quality builds - Base/clear has more depth and "pop"
- Metallic/pearl colors - These look better with clear coat
- Maximum gloss obsession - Base/clear wins on pure shine
- Trophy hunting - Judges prefer modern finishes
The practical difference:
Single-stage can be buffed to high gloss, but it doesn't have the wet, deep, layered look of base/clear. From 10 feet away, both look great. From 3 feet, base/clear has more visual depth. From 3 inches with a magnifying glass, judges can tell.
For a car you drive to work, single-stage is smarter. For a car you trailer to shows, base/clear is prettier.
Cost Impact
| Repair Type | Typical Cost (LA) | Labor Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Budget (driver quality) | $7,000–$10,000 | Single-stage vs $9,000–$15,000 base/clear (~30% savings) |
| Quality (show-ready) | $10,000–$15,000 | Single-stage vs $15,000–$22,000 base/clear (~33% savings) |
| Premium (concours) | $15,000–$20,000 | Single-stage vs $22,000–$35,000 base/clear (~35% savings) |
*LA labor rates: $110–$140/hour for paint work. Material cost difference: $700–$1,000 (single-stage $800–$1,500 vs base/clear $1,500–$2,500)
Ask me how I know these numbers.
Common Issues
Insufficient Gloss
Not enough reducer or wrong temperature = dull finish
Runs and Sags
Too much paint applied = drips that must be sanded out
Dust Contamination
Particles in paint during application = orange peel
Fading
UV exposure over years = color shifts (especially reds)
Oxidation
Neglected surface = chalky appearance
See This in Action
- Mustang Paint & Body Cost Guide
Complete single-stage vs. base/clear cost comparisons, timeline expectations, and decision frameworks
Want to Learn More?
Download the Mustang Restoration Starter Kit (LA Edition) for:
- Complete terminology reference guide
- Cost estimation worksheets
- Pre-purchase inspection checklist
- Shop interview questions
- Project timeline planning tools
No upsells. No bait-and-switch. Just the information Dorian wishes he'd had before he bought his first project car.