You have it right but I do not think the battery is the reason. The battery, while heavy, is mechanically simple. Suspension bushings, springs, and shocks have

You have it right but I do not think the battery is the reason. The battery, while heavy, is mechanically simple. Suspension bushings, springs, and shocks have a long life but, by the time the battery needs changing, are probably worn out. The wheels have been bashed enough to at least need straightening. The driver's seat padding and upholstery is probably shot. If it has a steel body it has dings and the corrosion protection and paint will need at least a touch up. The windshield is pitted. This means it's not just a job for the local mechanic. They don't do paint. The paint shop doesn't do upholstery. Wheel straightening is a speciality shop. The only place to do all this in one place is either a bespoke restoration shop, or a purpose built remanufacturing facility.