thanks for the inputs guys. i just left my car at regan's shop this wknd for a bare metal resto and repaint. i had talked to coupeking, as many have raved about his work, but he was well out of my price range.
anyway, regan will be sending me photos at each step along the way, so i'll plan to be posting them as they come in. i wish i could be there helping out in the shop, but i guess pictures are the next best thing.
now i just need to decide what color to go with...any of you know how to track down the original color from the VIN? other ideas?
original color aside, my top 3 choices would be (no particular order):
fjord blue (color it is now)
nachtblau (navy)
black