Early vs. Late dusters

i bought my basket case dart at 24 and I am now getting it restored. yes I droveit for a few years inrough conddition then decided to do the body and paint. being older I have the money for parts and I also collected alot over the years. but it took a long time,if i could go back a basket case i would steer away from. Just for more time driving instead of wrenching.