Morale Problem

Sounds to me that you are talking to the wrong people. Freinds are supposed to give encouragement, Maybe you should tell your freinds how you really feel about there negative comments. Let them know your serious about rebuilding your car. If they still rag you then just don't include them in that part of your life. Man, Just look at all of the positive feedback here!
Sometimes people want to see you fail just so it makes them feel better about their failures.
I say, If you really see this as something you want to do then the hell with everyone else. Build that car just as you envision it. It may not be easy and there may be road block after road block but, In the end you will be proud of your accomplishments and have something nobody else does.

good luck with your car which ever way it turns out. If not the Valiant.....maybe something else.