What does a project like this cost, on something like a la pavoni or other lever machines. If I were to just restore it to perfect functioning state regardless of appearance.

I've done this with a Pavoni and several Creminas. The Creminas are vastly more satisfying to work on. Ratty Creminas show up on eBay with some regularity, from $400--$700. If you're lucky, all that will be needed is a full gasket set from Orphan Espresso, around $62. If you're less lucky, you might also need Cremina parts---switches, drip tray, boiler cap, portafilter, etc.---these aren't cheap. Cost of refinishing depends on how much you can do yourself---sanding, stripping, painting. I was lucky and found a local powdercoater who would use powder I got from eBay and apply it for $25.

Good luck!

found these two, http://www.ebay.ca/itm/La-Pavoni-Europi ... 2235192376 http://www.ebay.ca/itm/mini-gaggia-leve ... 2318133342

That Mini Gaggia is certainly interesting.