This is fine and dandy with racing cars which suffer mainly from paint blemishes and dents. For street cars, specially those of Italian origins which suffer from bad corrosion problems, it is more difficult and even unsafe to keep them untouched. I agree, A nice original even a bit weathered is always better than a restored car. Actually, these cars ALWAYS drive better than fully restored ones.
I know of a XK120 FH coupe which sat in a garage over here since the 60's, amazing, they cleaned the carbs, the gas tank replaced a few hydraulic items and the car drives amazingly. the moss box is like no other, amazing. New Hide, carpet and black paint, and this car is one of the nicest 120s' I have seen. Something to be said about Southern California's dry wheather. The wood is all original, not re-done, not re-varnished with a nice patina. I saw the car when it came out of the garage, just amazing.
If anybody is interested:
http://www.heritageclassics.com/jaguar/53xk120blkfhc/Page.html Emmanuel[8D]