[DW42]

My estate was resprayed 2 and a half years ago, and is still perfect. But I agree, it's not quite as good as a factory finish -- there are minor differences in the finish in difficult to reach spots, and a couple of small runs. The cost is lower if you do the prep work. A nice paint shop will guide you through it, and judge your prep work if you do some of it before stripping the car.

I can't comment on paint job prices in the UK -- it's a more common operation here in sunny Queensland because the sun kills paint. My silver saloon needs paint, and I'm considering a colour change. Maybe even sparkly bits in it.