This hobby has turned for the rich only

[SS1156]

I am at the point of aggrevation. All the 2nd Gen camaros that I have found that are in restoring cond are priced out of site. These people are trying to retire of the sale of an old car. I don't expect to find one for $500 or something but $5000 is ridiculus for a car that is going to need another 30k worth of work. I have seen cars right now on ebay that need frame rails, rt & lt qtrs, fenders and everything else with a reserve of $6500!!! That is unreal, does this idiot think some is going to pay that?!?! It is almost to the point that only the rich can enjoy the car hobby. I'm not that old and I remember when the average guy could build a nice local show piece or a nice driver without getting a second mortage on his house. This hobby has pushedout the average guy like myself and now I have to admire from a far, it's just sad. I used to love working on cars. I guess I will just have to pick another hobby that the average guy can do like collecting stamps. Have fun guys because I am ending my search for a car to build. I really do appreciate all the info and suggestions that were given to me on this site. You guys seem like a great bunch of people.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

shoot.. youre buggin.


come get this

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/cto/1087289001.html


or this!

http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=54012

bam!

[phillym5]

I just bought a CHERRY project 68 mustang damn near ready for paint... not one spec of rust INCLUDING a 400 hp 351 with less than 5 hours on it, custom 5 speed trans... ect. All was missing was a hood, trunk, and interior...

$3k.:thumbsup:

[rjsjea]

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/cto/1085468116.html

[TreySmith]

Dude, start getting into the 74-81 Trans Am's, and Camaro's before it is too late. Prices are low and rust free street legal cars can be had for around $3000.

[T_Raven]

I agree that classic car prices have gotten a bit ridiculous compared to 13 years ago when I first got into this hobby. But if you are going to spend $30k-$35k to build a car then is an extra $2k-$3k for the initial purchase really a big deal? Just spread the extra cost over the couple years it will take to build and look for deals on parts.

[TreySmith]

You can also negotiate people down also.. Money talks :thumbsup:

[Northeast Rod Run]

I agree that the late 2nd gen F-bodies are still real reasonable to buy.

I have to say that if I didn't buy my '69 almost 20 years ago, there is no way I could afford to buy one now.

[coolwelder62]

This hobby is what you make of it. You can spend 6figures or build on a budget. My last car was built by myself in my garage for less than $45,000.00. And I used some really nice parts.I traded labor for the rusted out shell I started with. This latest camaro is a $500.00 car. I have been hard at work searching for the parts I will need to build a nice car. On this car I am going to build all the suspenion parts my self. My budget is 20,000.00 For the whole car.So I am working every angle I can to get deals on the parts I need.That whats makes this the greatest hobby in the world.Scott.

[Steve1968LS2]

Maybe it would help if you didn't have champagne tastes on a beer budget... :shrug:

[jcal87]

If it makes you feel any better i spent 15500 on mine and will prolly put a 100 thousand into it befor i die :lol: there is no instant gratification in this hobby keep looking youll eventually find something:thumbsup:

[nvr2fst]

I'm not that old and I remember when the average guy could build a nice local show piece or a nice driver without getting a second mortage on his house.

IMO The cost of a car build now is equivalent to where it was 5- 10yrs ago. Comparing the value of dollar vs dollar from one era to another is about the same. (Im talking parts, not fuel) In todays economy there are some great deals out there on cars and parts. Your not looking hard enough.

These cars are built over time with funds contributed over time. The rich can just get them built quicker or you can take out that 2nd mortgage you mentioned but find I bank that will give you one!

[Hdesign]

Don't get discouraged! There are great deals to be had if you're patient and look in the right places. www.searchtempest.com (formerly Craig's Helper) is how I found mine. I was looking nationwide and ended up finding a great deal on my 70 Camaro an hour away! It took me months to find that car and it took me years to find the bargain 70 Nova I had before that.

The other comments are right on though about investing more for the purchase of a nicer car that'll save you much more than that over the course of the build. Also, like Steve said, be realistic about what you can actually afford. It's very easy to get discouraged when the entry fee for a top-value, project car SHELL is double what a lower-value respectable driver is.

Plus, it's always cool to do a non-mainstream car. It'll stand out! :thumbsup:

[zbugger]

Maybe it would help if you didn't have champagne tastes on a beer budget... :shrug:

That's kinda my problem. Although I already had the car. Then again, beer budget might be outta reach for me at the moment too. I;d say I'm at the stealing water out of the garden hose budget still.

[andrewmp6]

Yeah there is cheap rust free cars out there look hard and everywhere.If you want one bad enough you can even go out of state to get it.I been looking for a 78-81 trans am for a while every one i find it a t top car or rusted but i don't give up easy.Yes some people ask some high crazy numbers for cars are not worth not even half that.There has been a 3rd gen camaro for sell here for months first it was 10 grand now its 7,200 but its really work like 3 grand maybe 4.Its a 383 and a fresh paint job.Or you see a car on 24s or bigger for high dollars i laugh hard at those adds.

[Josh@KYTP]

I was under the same assumption about the Pro Touring Car's. Way to much $$$$ for my budget. I decided to give it a go anyway. Prove that you can still build a sick ride for less than the cost of your first Home.

I scored a Rust free 1970 Camro for less than $3000. Going to pick it up this week. Got a 396 BBC engine with the car. Deals are out there. You just have to find them.

I mean really, what is the purpose of the full tilt auto cross/Open track style suspension on alot of these cars? Its all about a comfortable ride and killer stance. You dont have to spend $12000 on your front and rear suspension for that. I am not taking away from the cars that have it all. They are insane looking rides, but how many of them are gonna get beaten on hard?

[Young Gun]

Supply and Demand. The demand keeps going up and the supply keeps going down. That means prices go up. A lot. If you dont want to pay 5k for a project car, thats okay, somebody will. Does it suck? Yes. Can you do anything about it? Nope. So is it worth getting frustrated about something you cant control? I dont think so but who gives a rats @ss what I think. Cruise craigslist and see what you can come up with, ebay is not the best place to look for cars anyways, everybody thinks they have gold.

[Cread01]

you dont have to spend what some people do to have a nice car. just do as much work as you can yourself and be realistic. I have had my car for about 15 years and have gone through many phases. just start out where you can and go from there. no one says you have to buy a car and put 100k into it the next day you buy it.

just my 2 cents

[Flash68]

Supply and Demand. The demand keeps going up and the supply keeps going down. That means prices go up. A lot. If you dont want to pay 5k for a project car, thats okay, somebody will. Does it suck? Yes. Can you do anything about it? Nope. So is it worth getting frustrated about something you cant control? I dont think so but who gives a rats @ss what I think. Cruise craigslist and see what you can come up with, ebay is not the best place to look for cars anyways, everybody thinks they have gold.

Supply and demand..... people throw these words around they actually understand economics.

Demand is going down down down for pretty much everything... haven't you noticed? They are desperate people out there who cannot afford play things like weekend cars and such because their ATMs (read: house equity) is gone. Long gone.

Keep looking and be resourceful. Don't just look at ebay, craigslist, etc. Look in your newspapers and all those little regional classified car mags like AutoTrader, etc etc etc.

[awr68]

Take a drive threw the country....you never know what you might see in or near a barn!

[Scotch]

If budget is your primary concern, build a 3rd Gen.

Best performance per-dollar car you can build right now. Plenty of great parts out there, and you can get a good one dirt cheap.

You don't have to rich to enjoy this hobby, but it'd sure help!

[Flash68]

If budget is your primary concern, build a 3rd Gen.



This is a good call.

[Young Gun]

Supply and demand..... people throw these words around they actually understand economics.

Demand is going down down down for pretty much everything... haven't you noticed? They are desperate people out there who cannot afford play things like weekend cars and such because their ATMs (read: house equity) is gone. Long gone.




for the most part it is... but there are still plenty of people with money to burn... so demand is still going up per say, the supply is just dropping much quicker. That right at least?

[Flash68]

for the most part it is... but there are still plenty of people with money to burn... so demand is still going up per say, the supply is just dropping much quicker. That right at least?

I dont know what "plenty" amounts to, but the number of people willing to shell out money for discretionary items like muscle cars, or commit to an expensive build, has been decreasing by the day as our economy falls on its face. A lot of people are selling these types of cars out of necessity as food, mortgage/rent, bills, etc become harder to take care of. Millions of jobs have been lost recently, and you can bet not just a handful of those people have/had or were planning to have a muscle car. Well that is on hold.

I am an example of one of these people. I started a build 2 years ago when my business was doing well, and now it is not doing as well, so I may be forced to sell it upon completion. And one of the buyers I have been talking to who WAS looking for a 75-100k pro-touring Camaro probably is not in the market anymore due to the stock market falling off a cliff. There are many more examples of this....

As far as supply, sure, every year it becomes somewhat harder to find a decent 60s/70s muscle car to being a project with. But it's not like they built 100 Camaros/Novas/Chevelles/whatever every year. They built thousands and thousands of them and they are around..... you just have to look a little harder I guess.

But I will submit that demand is falling off a cliff along with our economy while supply slowly slowly diminishes.

[class67]

Believe me....the deals are still out there!

Just yesterday I scored a 70 Duster with a straight body and rust free, it has a blown motor but the guy threw in a 360/727 combo. The guy just wants it gone so he said take it outta here $0.

I wasn't looking for a car at all, but I figured I would build it for my wife as she had a 70 Duster in HS that she loved.

[Flash68]

Believe me....the deals are still out there!

Just yesterday I scored a 70 Duster with a straight body and rust free, it has a blown motor but the guy threw in a 360/727 combo. The guy just wants it gone so he said take it outta here $0.

I wasn't looking for a car at all, but I figured I would build it for my wife as she had a 70 Duster in HS that she loved.

Dude, that is a score!!!!

[class67]

Dude, that is a score!!!!


Yeah, It was quite a fluke, it just came up in casual coversation and I figured what the hell.

Guess I'll be looking for parts next weekend in Pleasanton...lol

[Flash68]

This dude just got a 70 Chevelle for $1700. There are deals to be had.

http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=53999

[jst8a5.0]

There is a local guy that I do a lot of work for. He deals in older cars and is definitely not your typical used car salesman. He's a real car guy and he has a 70 Challenger R/T in the showroom along with various other things. If anyone is in southern AZ, the drive to see their new showroom is worth it. The name is Richardson Motor Company. Just google it and it will give you contact info. He is really good on finding things. It's mostly older H.A.M.B. stuff but try him anyway.

[jcal87]

ss1156 what exactly are you looking for? what year? does it have to be a camaro 2nd gen? or are you willing to go another route im located in san diego and due to the climate out here theres not alot of rusty cars and theres planty of muscle out here tell me what exactly you are looking for and ill help you search so shoot me that info on here or a PM and let me know your price range as well.

[Bow Tie 67]

Take a drive threw the country....you never know what you might see in or near a barn!

( Deliverance music playing in background )

[SS1156]

shoot.. youre buggin.


come get this

http://atlanta.craigslist.org/cto/1087289001.html


or this!

http://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=54012

bam!

You don't find stuff like this in FL. Both of these cars would be around $5000 to say the least.

[XcYZ]

This same cost/supply/demand debate could be applied to anything, really... Real Estate for instance...

[jy211]

You don't find stuff like this in FL. Both of these cars would be around $5000 to say the least.

Depends on what part. I sold a 72' camaro complete car, for $2K a few months back. You can find them, you just have to turn over lots of stones...

[SS1156]

I really do appreciate all the info and advice, I really do. If anyone knows of any of these cars for sale that are in my budget ($1000 to $2000) please shot them my way. I am looking through that search site that someone put a link to (Thank you very much). I have put out the feelers here in my neck of the woods. I'm really pissed at my ex-gf that was gonna sell me her 72 Camaro for $900 that was all there just needed to be restored. I guess that is why I am disgusted. I found a good deal and lost it due to whatever her problem is, thats why she is am ex, and I am trying to find another. I would even entertain a 70-73 Firebird too. You guys here are really good bunch of people and I'm sorry if I went off on a rant. It just seems that this hobby is getting out of reach for and average working stiff like me. Oh I AM THANKFUL to be working believe me. Again, thank you for all your info and advice.....Mayo

[BonzoHansen]

As these guys have shown, deals are out there. Right now there is a solid 73 BBC RS Camaro in my garage that my friend bought for $3500. You might have to look harder than you are now. Plus what Mr. Rupp said about wants vs. wallet. A nice 70 Camaro is much more than an equal condition 75-81 car.

Also, I don’t know if you are looking to restore or modify (given you are here I assume the latter), but you may find it a lot cheaper to buy a solid 'done' car for $8000 than a total project car for $1000. I see very nice driver stuff, paint done, metal solid, all the time in the 5000-10000 range. Modify to your liking and you are good to go. Plus then you can go in stages, especially if paint is in driver or better condition.

Where are you? Update your location, you never know when someone else might see something and remember you. Happens all the time. Sometimes it is who you know….

[jcal87]

http://dallas.craigslist.org/sdf/cto/1087711883.html

heres one

[rich-allen]

Mayo,

$1000 - $2000 budget for an early 70's camaro? That's a bit unrealistic.

If you find a car in that price range, chances are it will be rusted completely through costing you twice as much to fix up.
You can't expect to build a PT project without having a realistic budget.
It's not about being rich, it's about having a plan and budget within your means.



Good luck with the project,

Rich

[Vegas69]

I have to agree....you are looking for a solid car for less than they were new. The economy is in the toilet but inflation still exists. At least your not buying a 1st gen. Prices still seem very reasonable on 2nd gens to me.

[gearheads78]

Don't forget about 78-87 A/G body. Still dirt cheap and can be made in to sweet cars.

[rich-allen]

These early 2nd Gens are climbing in price. It's already doubled in the last 7 or so years.

[rwhite692]

Believe me....the deals are still out there!

Just yesterday I scored a 70 Duster with a straight body and rust free, it has a blown motor but the guy threw in a 360/727 combo. The guy just wants it gone so he said take it outta here $0.

I wasn't looking for a car at all, but I figured I would build it for my wife as she had a 70 Duster in HS that she loved.



Steve...Awesome Score! :bow:

[SS1156]

Don't forget about 78-87 A/G body. Still dirt cheap and can be made in to sweet cars.

Already went that route too. Malibu's have been plucked clean around here. They made sweet race cars and I think thats where most have gone. I guess since I am unrealistic in thinking I could purchase an early 70's Camaro or Firebird for $1000 to $2000 there is no sense me even looking anymore. I have to disagree with you on the value of these cars, but who am I? Thanks guys......

[byebye67]

i agree, it is what you make of it. i noticed that those who stick to resourcefulness, dedication, and an open mind are generally much more satisfied in the hobby, and gain fulfillment out of it.

[class67]

Steve...Awesome Score! :bow:

Thanks, Rob...I started a project thread.

[coolwelder62]

How about a 99% rust free 65chevy 2 dr biscayne.6cly powerglide 100% complete.It's a really nice car.$4000.00 If you are interested I will post some photos. Check out rad rides .com and the Hurricayne troy built. Scott

[Tom.A]

How about a 99% rust free 65chevy 2 dr biscayne.6cly powerglide 100% complete.It's a really nice car.$4000.00 If you are interested I will post some photos. Check out rad rides .com and the Hurricayne troy built. Scott

Someday I want another one of those cars. Mine was a '66 but always like the '65 tail-lights better.
http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x82/passperf/TomwheelsupNorton-1.jpg

[T_Raven]

Already went that route too. Malibu's have been plucked clean around here. They made sweet race cars and I think thats where most have gone. I guess since I am unrealistic in thinking I could purchase an early 70's Camaro or Firebird for $1000 to $2000 there is no sense me even looking anymore. I have to disagree with you on the value of these cars, but who am I? Thanks guys......

Dude seriouly....how much did you plan to invest into a $2k car? If you are going to put $30k+ into something then who cares if you have to pay an extra $3k to start with?

[deuce_454]

Don't forget about 78-87 A/G body. Still dirt cheap and can be made in to sweet cars.

dont... they are cool... and drive awesome (i should know) but the resale value is not like a camaro.... so if you ever tried to recoupe atleast some of your money, a mainstream car is far easier to sell

[SS1156]

dont... they are cool... and drive awesome (i should know) but the resale value is not like a camaro.... so if you ever tried to recoupe atleast some of your money, a mainstream car is far easier to sell

I think the 78-81 Malibu's are sick. Especially after the quad headlamp conversion. Don't get me wrong I really like the Bu's and like you said, they are still available out there. I thought about a Malibu or a Monte SS ( I had an 85 SS) but I just had my sights on an early 70's Camaro because I have had 3 of them already. That is my favorite car of all time, that's why I am wanting that car so bad. I don't care how much I put into it, because it will be over time, it's the initial cost. To put it simple, I don't have $3000 to drop on a car right now. You guys are busting my stones because I just can't go and drop $3000 $ $5000 on a restorable car.....I CAN'T and I really don't think they are worth that much. I can get a first gen for that much. I'm going to take the advice of some of the guys on here that have given advice and not thrown stones at me for voicing my opinion. I'm just going to be patient and keep looking. If I find one I find one, if I don't I'll collect stamps. No harm to any of you.

[2Bad4Ya]

My advice...
Stop looking locally!

Fla cars usually a last resort for a project for me due to all the salt water soaked coastal cars. I just don't even go there, not to mention a survivor car in Fla is always higher than a Alabama, Lousianna, Ga, car.

You can find 2nd gen camaros in the 3k range still but the problem is you have to be ready to buy when you find a deal. The guy who goes looking with no $$$ in his pocket is wasting everyones time. Go with cash, and go with a way to get the car home. If your tite on cash take a truck etc... or rent something, car hauling co.'s can add anopther 1-2k to your project cost.

[SS1156]

My advice...
Stop looking locally!

Fla cars usually a last resort for a project for me due to all the salt water soaked coastal cars. I just don't even go there, not to mention a survivor car in Fla is always higher than a Alabama, Lousianna, Ga, car.

You can find 2nd gen camaros in the 3k range still but the problem is you have to be ready to buy when you find a deal. The guy who goes looking with no $$$ in his pocket is wasting everyones time. Go with cash, and go with a way to get the car home. If your tite on cash take a truck etc... or rent something, car hauling co.'s can add anopther 1-2k to your project cost.

Thanks for the advice. I do have the cash (I'm still adding to the till) and I have my truck (Dodge 3/4 w/ a Cummins) with the use of several trailers. I'm going to take everyones advice and just be patient and keep looking but not to the point I'm disappointed. Like I said before, if I find one great! If I don't it just wasn't meant to be. Maybe I will settle for something else, but first I want to exhaust my efforts finding this car then I will settle. This way I know that I looked and couldn't find what I wanted. I do have an avenue of getting a rubber bumper car and I might have to go that way. I know there are deals out there.....I just have to find it!!!! Thanks guys for all your advice. I didn't mean to offend anyone or piss anyone off. I REALLY REALLY do appreciate all your advice and I will take it too.

[rich-allen]

I don't think anyone is throwing stones here. You titled the thread 'This hobby has turned for the rich only" and yet you expect to get something for damn near nothing.
I really hope you find the car your looking. Lord knows everyone loves a good deal.

If you can find a decent rolling 1st gen for $5K please post up the details.

Good luck on your quest, be sure to post pics of the cars you find.



Rich

[SS1156]

Thanks Rich I certainly will leep y'all posted.

[Mick Mc]

Yes, the first gen Camaro hobby is not for the shallow pocketed ones, BUT

Try craigs list, with the key word as 'project'. There are alot of deals out there, yes they take some looking and presistance. Tyler from ATS said he looked for years to find his current driver/track/budget Camaro. He was tooling it around during SEMA, Alcon brakes and smokey small block and I think a 3.08 rear gear.

Keep looking or dare to be different.
I just looked a 60's Stude (not a lark) small boxy and I bet a Camaro front sub-frame would fit in the front, add a wicked set of rollers and that car would be the attention getter at a show and a corner carver too. Not exactly a Camaro but alot of fun. No you can't open the DSE catalog without buying a grinder and since of imagination, but this is what Hot Rodding is all about.

Do you really want a Camaro?
or
Do you really want to be featured in a magazine?
or
Do you really want a vehicle that you can pour your time, money and creative-ness into, and have a good time too.


Yes, I had a beautiful blue 69 SS.
Yes, I just passed on a 70 Camaro, cheap, but it needed EVERYTHING.
Yes, the deals are out there, and sometimes it's about being in the right place at the right time. Sometimes its about seeing the forest for trees.
Are you looking for a Camaro or looking for a soon to be cool car?
You would not believe the number of people who ring my door bell and ask if my 64 Coupe de Ville is for sale.
You need to look around, drive thru some neighborhoods, visit some small towns, ring some door bells, don't peek over any walls or gates unless you like armed confrontation though.
Look around your neighborhood, I can't count the number of times, guys have told me they found this car right in their own backyard , not more than an hour away. Grab a bag of sunflower seeds and a Sunday afternoon and go for a drive, visit a part of town you haven't seen in a while. You never know what you might happen into.
Searching 'the internet' in some distant far and away place is never as much fun as going for a Sunday afternoon drive.

Good luck.
Keep up the search.

Persistance

"Nothing in this world can take the place of Persistance."

"Talent will not: Nothing is more common than unsuccessful men with talent"

"Genius will not: unrewarded genius is almost a proverb"

"Education will not: the world is full of educated derelicts"

"Persistance and Determination alone are omnipotent"




Mick

[TreySmith]

I don't think anyone is throwing stones here. You titled the thread 'This hobby has turned for the rich only" and yet you expect to get something for damn near nothing.
I really hope you find the car your looking. Lord knows everyone loves a good deal.

If you can find a decent rolling 1st gen for $5K please post up the details.

Good luck on your quest, be sure to post pics of the cars you find.



Richthere has been a few around here lately, when I get home I will try to post some links.

[2Bad4Ya]

another tidbit i think may help you...

1st gen cars, camaro will usually always be more than firebird 1st gen. If you do not mind a firebird 1st gen you can usaually run off with one for about 1/2 price of a camaro 1st gen. Also you hardly see many 1st gen firebirds compared to camaros so that adds to the uniquness i think.

[2Bad4Ya]

http://www.racingjunk.com/category/102/Chevrolet/post/1497918/1967-Camaro.html

http://www.racingjunk.com/category/31/Stock_Super_Stock/post/1501763/1967-Chevy-Camaro.html

http://www.racingjunk.com/category/1015/Chevy_Camaro_1967_1976/post/1498340/1967-CHEVROLET-CAMARO.html

http://www.racingjunk.com/category/18/Complete_Race_Cars/post/1480419/67-Camaro-Project-Car.html

/shrug 5 minutes on racingjunk.com looking in fla & alabama only and found 4 possible projects around 5k or and under.

[TreySmith]

http://houston.craigslist.org/cto/1083179645.html

Guess all the others have already sold.

[Dayton]

My buddy inherited this 1973 running car from his aunt. He had it on Craigslist several month's ago for $7k. No Takers. I would be willing to bet if you waved $5k in his face, it would be sold!

[TreySmith]

Here is an H/O SS for $5k

http://dallas.craigslist.org/mdf/cto/1089976625.html

[SS1156]

there has been a few around here lately, when I get home I will try to post some links.

Thanks Trey

[SS1156]

My buddy inherited this 1973 running car from his aunt. He had it on Craigslist several month's ago for $7k. No Takers. I would be willing to bet if you waved $5k in his face, it would be sold!

WOW....thats a nice ride. I wonder how much it would cost to ship a car to Florida?

[2Bad4Ya]

2 yrs ago it cost me 1k to ship from st. louis to charlotte nc, you can go to shipping site and do a online estimate usually for a ball park figure.

[BRIAN]

Not sure if it is for the rich but you are correct that solid rust free muscle cars are not cheap. If you buy the supposed low cost car in primer from a photo on the net be prepared to get what you paid for. A lot of guys have a fantasy that they can do all the metal work because they have a couple hammers and a $300 Home Depot welder. No going to happen. A rusty car will always be a rusty car.

A good solid true almost rust free 1st gen car will be easy $15k and probably worth every penny it will save you in metal costs. The problem with rusty cars is where do you stop cutting? I actually have a almost rust free 1st gen that runs and drives for about that money and it is a steal.

If you want a good deal in this market buy a car you know was built right and for is seriously for sale and not an owner testing the waters. There are plenty of deals out there but again these are no longer cheap cars.

For comparison a 1988 Testarossa goes for approx $45-50k for a low mile serviced car. A 930 Porsche in the high 20's to mid 30's. The market has changed and American muscle cars are now the higher priced cars.

$45 buys you a nice frame on car. $75 and up for a full on built car. They were 6 figures last summer.

[awr68]

You should have bought Curtis' car..........even though it wasn't a second gen it was a screamin deal.

[rlplive]

If this hobby is for the rich only I either need to change my name to Rich or I am screwed.

[SS1156]

LOL.....that's good stuff right there.

[ironworks]

Base on my thinking, I'm over my head into this hobby, So I guess that used to make me over my head in money. I think it is more like I used to be Rich before I got over my head into this hobby.

Man I wish I could get the same enjoyment out of Jogging as I do fighting to get some of my projects just so I can just push them around my shop. Can you imagine just going out and RUNNING? I could afford to buy the best running shoes I wanted with all the money I spend on cars, Heck 2 or 3 pairs. Shoot I could proabably afford to have someone build me my very own running path. I could even afford to pay people to have drinks to hand me every few miles like in the marathons.

But no only engine driven torque excites me and that is not cheap. Then I have to be the pickiest, most detail oriented car guy. Man I remember when a clapped out bucket of rust used to really get me going.... Not now, I will send 10 days making a new alternator bracket because the stock on is just not good enough.

So in closing this hobby is only for those that used to be "RICH".

:D

[LateNight72]

The days of going down to the used car lot and buying that GT500 or Superbird for $3000 is long gone, unfortunately.

Yes, it will take some money to get a decent car. But you have to look around. There are so many people who watch Barrett Jackson and see a COPO ZL1 Camaro roll across the block for $200k and think their 307 POS is worth lots of money.

There are still plenty of people who haven't not been swindled by Barrett Jackson, eBay, etc. and still sell these cars for reasonable amounts. You will have to weed out all the bull**** ads in order to find the deals, but they're still out there.

[TreySmith]

I just found a blue 69 Coronet nearby for $2500. Has some rust on the right quarter panel, but it is patchable. Also has some in the rear window.. But it is all there and still looks good and would make a nice super bee clone. So deals are still out there. If I had the spare cash, it would be a cool DD or make a badass Pro touring car and would definitely be the first of it's kind.

http://images.craigslist.org/3mf3oe3l2ZZZZZZZZZ93kbaf0869c8f9a1079.jpg
http://images.craigslist.org/3n73pc3lbZZZZZZZZZ93k90c73b84be6015ea.jpg
http://images.craigslist.org/3n93k23pdZZZZZZZZZ93k459f81489fce1d93.jpg

[SS1156]

The days of going down to the used car lot and buying that GT500 or Superbird for $3000 is long gone, unfortunately.

Yes, it will take some money to get a decent car. But you have to look around. There are so many people who watch Barrett Jackson and see a COPO ZL1 Camaro roll across the block for $200k and think their 307 POS is worth lots of money.

There are still plenty of people who haven't not been swindled by Barrett Jackson, eBay, etc. and still sell these cars for reasonable amounts. You will have to weed out all the bull**** ads in order to find the deals, but they're still out there.

My thoughts exactly. I'm not going to let the cat out of the bag just yet, but I may have found something. I know if I tell everyone I will jinx myself but come this weekend I will let you know. Hint... it's just what I'm looking for.

[98ssnova]

Good luck and don't wait if you like it buy it. :thumbsup:

[Josh69]

After my experience, I would buy something you can drive as is for a few years and save up for the start of the build. Maybe just put some nice wheels on it to start with and springs for the stance. Everything else can come later when that piggybank is a busting at the seams.

Good luck with your seach either way. I've learned quickly that picking the car and daydreaming about how it'll turn out is alot more fun that doing the work...let me tell you. But you have to enjoy the work too, or you'll end up in the looney bin....or is it the other way around? Crap.

Damn, I give great advice....sure as hell wish I followed it sometimes!:willy:

[10Seconds]

I think the key is save a bit, buy a decent car as a starting point then put money into it over time.

I have way more into mine that I could have ever done at once, but it was done a bit at a time.

If you are just an average guy, its going to be tough to get into one of these top supercar type builds. Have some reasonable goals and have fun with it, don't stress over what you cant do.

[camaro2nv]

This Hobby is just that, a Hobby! It takes cash to have a Hobby like this. Parts take money, cars cost money. Its just the way it works. If it was cheap EVERYONE would be building these cars.

[SS1156]

I'm not looking to build a supercar, luckily I work for a bodyshop and have friends that can do the paint work. I do all my own motorwork and mechanicals. The only hard part is buying the car. I'm on a mission this weekend......I will keep ya posted.

[SS1156]

Ok guys I can't hold it any longer. I just got off the phone with the guy and got some good info on the car I am going to pick up thid weekend, hopefully. The bottoms of the feners, one door, the qtrs and the lower rear valance are a little rusty. well he described them as having holes and would be better to put patch panels on them. The int is pretty much gone except for all the dash & a/c stuff. The car is rolling, but I didn't really car because i have a built small block or a built big block at my disposal. I want to go 5 or 6 spd, not sure which yet. The car has a lost title, but I have the vin and had a friend run it and I can get a title. All this for $1000, what do you think? I know someone on here or Pro-Touring told me that I would never be able to build one of these supercars, which that is fine with me. I have a pic of marc b's blue 71 Camaro which in my opinion is absolutely incredible. If I can build that my dreams would come true. I work for a very exclusive body shop here in Florida and have a good friend that works with me, he has offered to help me with all the body work. All I need to do is buy the parts. Please let me know what you guys think. Plain and simple, I cannot afford to buy a driver, one that is done (nor would I want to, you don't really know what you;re getting), or a $3000 half done one. I think this is a good buy.

[98ssnova]

Personaly I would not buy a car sight unseen but if you feel good about it and think the seller is honest then go for it. I would post up where it is maybe member can check it out for you if it's not in your hood. just my .02:cheers:

[Dayton]

look at the car before you send money. This is what a $1000 car on the internet can sometimes look like.

[Steve1968LS2]

look at the car before you send money. This is what a $1000 car on the internet can sometimes look like.

Hmmm.. I think I can fix that...

[SS1156]

I forgot to mention that i have already seen pics of the car and I am not sending the money before i get there. The guy is holding the car for me until I get there. If I don't like it......I don't buy it.

[98ssnova]

I forgot to mention that i have already seen pics of the car and I am not sending the money before i get there. The guy is holding the car for me until I get there. If I don't like it......I don't buy it.

Cool I hope it works out for you. I guess you are gonna be one of those rich guys now HUH:rofl:

[SS1156]

LOLOLOL........no just lucky I guess. I by all means am not rich. I'm just a working stiff in this rat race. I am very thankful to be employed too.

[rogue]

I think half the members of the protouring community are building luxury muscle cars instead of buying AMG Mercedes....

[Josh69]

A rusty car is a rusty car...so be very thorough in your evaluation. One those 2nd gens, I've ran across a few with pretty rusty dashes, check around the trunk and rear window...and it would probably be in your best interest to bring a magnet and a paint thickness indicator to look for the unseen. You may well be stripping it to the roof and cowl. If everything on the outside is rusty...chances are there is alot more inside where that came from.

I'd wait it out and find the most rust free shell you can....because that is really what you're buying, a shell. Rolling doesn't mean ****, chances are you're going to have to rebuild and replace 95% of what is there anyway. I bought a running/driving car...whoopdedoo....aside from the shell, the only parts I could re-use were the rear seat frames, engine block, sub-frame, spindles and lower control arms. The entire steering, suspension, drivetrain, etc. all was 40 year old worn out crap. That's what you get if it hasn't been restored, or is an amazing survivor. You should be aware that every part you have to buy, costs a helluva lot more than when it comes with the car.

[Young Gun]

look at the car before you send money. This is what a $1000 car on the internet can sometimes look like.

That'll buff right out...

[SS1156]

I'm not new to the car game. I have had a few 2nd Gens and I know where to look for the rust. If the car is as he has described it and what I have seen in the photos, it's not a bad deal. The car is basically a rolling shell (easier to load on the trailer anyways) that has the dash and a/c stuff still in it. All the rest of the interior is gone which I would be replacing anyways. Trust me when I tell you that I have seen A LOT worse for a lot more $$$, thats how this thread got started in the first place.

[elitecustombody]

I'm far from rich, but in Dec 07 I spent $10k on rusty 71 Cuda,needs roof skin,quarters,int. floor,trunk floor,trunk,rear body panel,deck lid,and much more, :willy: ,but I'm very happy cause otherwise it's a solid car ,no rust in doors,rockers,frame rails,firewall,cowl,fenders,aprons,e.t.c. even now it's hard to find a 71 Cuda with flawless grille for under 10k, Iam a distributor for AMD sheetmetal so replacement parts won't cost me much

[SS1156]

I'm far from rich, but in Dec 07 I spent $10k on rusty 71 Cuda,needs roof skin,quarters,int. floor,trunk floor,trunk,rear body panel,deck lid,and much more, :willy: ,but I'm very happy cause otherwise it's a solid car ,no rust in doors,rockers,frame rails,firewall,cowl,fenders,aprons,e.t.c. even now it's hard to find a 71 Cuda with flawless grille for under 10k, Iam a distributor for AMD sheetmetal so replacement parts won't cost me much

Damn, that's my favorite year Cuda. I love the 4 headlamps and the gills on the fenders. I think the 71 is the best looking Cuda. Good luck with the build and keep us up to date.

[ProTouring442]

That'll buff right out...

See now, some of you guys are always trying to make a mountain out of a mole hill... a little wax is all it needs, not a cut and buff! :rofl:

Shiny Side Up!
Bill