How much did it cost you?

my take. there are 2 type of cars, driver and the so called show poodle. perfect cars cost lots of $$ whether you pay someone for the work, or you do it, or u buy it already done. then take your expensive poodle to the car show, spend the $20 entry, and someone else drives home with the $5 plastic trophy, but many people enjoy this.
or find a driver quality car, that someone has done reasonable quality work, needs to sell, it a driver and buy it for a reasonable price. drive it and enjoy it. YOU learn how to improve it as time and $$ and the wife allows.
OR look for an early A body. out there and CHEAP if you look. yes YOU might have to pay transport to get it from the seller to you.