Looking For Budget Project Car Ideas

[MilesSpeed]

I'm brainstorming for an upcoming PHR story on budget project cars. I'm looking for hot-roddable cars with cool factor. Wanted to include cars from the early 60's through the early '90s.

I would really appreciate some suggestions!

So far here's what I've got:
Monza
Vega
3rd Gen Camaro
Fox body Mustang
80's Monte Carlo
Ventura

[MilesSpeed]

I suppose I could add early Mustang coupe to that list!

[justasquid]

I think your on the right step with the 3rd gen camaro/firebird platform. they are pletiful and still can be had for a decent price. But, I would also suggest the 2nd gen, late 70's early 80's camaro firebird platform. While the prices are rising for them, you still can come across decent deals.

Also, early 80's oldsmobiles or buicks. Regals and Cutless tend to be a fairly popular mod-able car. Even something along the lines of a chevy malibu of the late 70's early 80's.

Honestly though, I really want to see a latter year Fiero modded. they are light, look good and from a base start point, they have a lot going for them. Maybe a v-8 swap or a 3.8 liter turbo car, and for the most part, can be had for very little initial cost.

[MilesSpeed]

Fiero! I almost forgot about those cars! I wonder what the production numbers were like.

[jackfrost]

of course I'm biased, but I think the g-bodies are a pretty underrated platform. the non-Chevy cars are pretty plentiful and cheap.

also, disco Novas?

I second the Fiero.

[jy211]

Monte Carlo SS.

[hdesign]

My vote is for the GM G-body cars, there's a bazillion still on the road and in great shape, parts are available and they're still pretty cheap if you don't get the hi-performance versions. 3rd Gen F-bodies are also a great idea.

Chevy-
Monte Carlo and SS
Malibu
Elcamino (or GMC Sprint/Caballero)

Olds-
Cutlass
442

Buick-
Regal
T-type

Pontiac-
Grand Prix and 2+2 aerocoupe
Lemans

Something wild I'd like to see is a Citation X-11 2door hatchback modded.

[1offwizard]

Early '90s V8 T-bird. Less commonly hot rodded than the mustang, independent rear, and I have a '97 I would love ideas on!

[CRCRFT78]

Liz if you do any G-bodies, 3rd gen F-bodies or anything else requiring a smog could you PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE include info on making these mods/swaps SMOG/CARB legal. A lot of mags do the swaps without any consideration for those of us that love these cars but still have to be compliant with government regulations. I hope this suggestion doesn't make you reconsider your project options and exclude them. Do a G-body wagon.

[ITLBTU]

I would love to do a pro-touring/auto-x lsx Vega....

[novaderrik]

I would love to do a pro-touring/auto-x lsx Vega....
make it a wagon- err, i mean "Kammback"- and it could be about the coolest low buck "pro touring" build ever.
there may not be a lot of them out there any more- but do it in the style of the Chevette that Magnante built with the Caddy 500 in it, only instead of going for all out straight line performance, set it up to take corners.
it's actually pretty easy to upgrade the H body- swap in G body spindles on the front and S10 rear axles in a Monza 7.5 housing with updated guts and it's ready for some fun.

[Twentyover]

Mercury imported a pile of Capri's from Germany between 1969 and 1977 (not that tragic Mazda derivative from OZ.) Starting with a V8 sized engine compartment and generally <2500 lb, I believe they can be made a quasi- bitchin ride

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/01/26825230921-1.jpg (http://www.fquick.com/garages/viewgallery.php?action=viewimg&id=230921)

[MilesSpeed]

your guys' input has been extremely helpful! thanks so much!

[SicMonte]

I will sell you my monte for $7000...good starting point. Already has great motor...trans...etc...just add your own flavor...

[Chicken Coupe]

Been thinking about a Ford Fairmont Futura for years now, 78-81, basically a large fox-body Mustang.

Pretty sure you could swap a full mustang power train into it and it wouldn't know the difference.

[The Stickman]

Fiero! I almost forgot about those cars! I wonder what the production numbers were like.


136K in the first year, and 367K total. The Fiero may be the most versitial car ever built. Alot of people will laugh but consider this. Fiero's have had all these engines installed in them but ordinary people. It came stock with the 2.5L 4cyl and 2.8L V-6. It has had ever variation of the 60 degree V-6(2.8,3.1 3.2 3.4, and 3.4DOHC) The 3.8L V-6(NA, Supercharged, and turbocharged), Caddy NorthStar, and Caddy 4.1, 4.5, 4.9. Olds 4.0 DOHC and Olds 455, BBC SBC 215 Buick, Ecotech, And my favorite the Pontiac Super Duty 4 cylinder, Here is mine.
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2008/12/Imsa_Coupe-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/100_01561-1.jpg

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/100_01641-1.jpg

[69LT1Nova]

Something wild I'd like to see is a Citation X-11 2door hatchback modded.

LOL! That was my first car!!

The "Iron Duke" 151 ci 4-banger was pretty laughable in the power department though... but I'd still race anything, being a dumb kid and all. The 4 speed was pretty fun.

I wonder what would happen if you stuffed in a 6 from a Baretta with a 5 speed... :hmm: :idea:

[Bad94]

Datsun 280ZX

I know someone with nice one to start with, he wants to build a protouring 280. Hes thinking about doing a LS1/T56, 3 link vette brakes, full cage.

He has another one what he used to run at mid ohio.

[Bill Howell]

What is a budget build? I guess I need to know that before I make any suggestions.
While I agree that camaros are the most overdone cars in the world at the moment and some of us beg to be different, to me a budget build should not be a fringe style car. Once you have bought the car, all builds are based on some sort of budget.
PLEASE, don't pick some oddball car just because it is cheap, then pour tons of money into it, and in the process mislead readers that that is a good idea! Some poor sap will then build similar car, and be sick when he gets his pocketbook handed to him on a platter when he tries to sell it. At that point, he has anything but a budget build, and we lose yet another car guy.
Like others have mentioned, G-bodies are cool, and are the next generation of cars that everyone will be redoing. There are so many parts out there that improve them and so many ideas that have not been tried. Pick any g-body, but I suggest a chevy, as in malibu or monte carlo, since those are the ones most will be looking to buy later.
Mustangs are cool, but how many more ways are there to build a fox body that we have not seen? I am old enough to remember the days of 55 chevys, and I don't think there is anything that can be done to one of those now that hasn't been done already.
Mopars are cool and parts are coming regularly now for them also, but, please, no 65 satellite 4 door because it was free.
Remember this, and please, don't take it personally.
You are in a position to do really cool stuff that many of us read about. Don't bore us with half ass cheap builds that anyone can do. You don't have to build a g-force cuda to impress us, but please, a Fiero???? Take a Fiero, spend $75K on it and I doubt many would stop in a parking lot and look at it twice.
So, please, think outside the box, but do it on something that will energize the masses.

[monza]

Man I wish I was not below Bill's post when I mention this next car but I have to, The Corvair.

[Bill Howell]

Man I wish I was not below Bill's post when I mention this next car but I have to, The Corvair.

LOL, you got to be kidding me! Corvair, LS3, I am feeling that. I saw one at Columbus Goodguys last year, very cool piece and had a crowd around it all day.

Hey, when Fieros first came out, mid engine, two seaters, I can remember dreaming of having one. Then once they hit the streets, what a POS. Over half of them burned to the ground because battery acid would eat thru the fuel lines and create a fire. Of course, I guess after looking on Ebay at "protouring cars" for sale you could always put a set of TTIIs on anything and call it a day....lol

[406 Q-ship]

2nd Gen F-bodys another cheap alternative, especially the 78 up Camaro. Even the early 4th Gen F-body is pretty reasonably priced. Early mustangs are kind of out of the budget of the blue collar guy, unless you go for a coupe for the 65 - 70 Mustang.......I just had an idea, what about a 71 - 73 Mustang (cheap and lots of interchange in the early 70's Fords). A 71 - 76 Torino would be a alternate to the Mustang. There is still AMC and Chrysler too, Hornet, Volare....stop laughing, Spirit, Gremlin....I said to stop laughing......et al. These are RWD that have potentual, all will absorb a V8 easily and are very close relatives to the beloved Muscle cars.

You could do a truck too......the posiblities are endless.

[Bill Howell]

2nd Gen F-bodys another cheap alternative, especially the 78 up Camaro. Even the early 4th Gen F-body is pretty reasonably priced. Early mustangs are kind of out of the budget of the blue collar guy, unless you go for a coupe for the 65 - 70 Mustang.......I just had an idea, what about a 71 - 73 Mustang (cheap and lots of interchange in the early 70's Fords). A 71 - 76 Torino would be a alternate to the Mustang. There is still AMC and Chrysler too, Hornet, Volare....stop laughing, Spirit, Gremlin....I said to stop laughing......et al. These are RWD that have potentual, all will absorb a V8 easily and are very close relatives to the beloved Muscle cars.

You could do a truck too......the posiblities are endless.

That black Pacer on the power tour a couple years ago was the bomb and fast too.
How about a AMX?

[The Stickman]

LOL, you got to be kidding me! Corvair, LS3, I am feeling that. I saw one at Columbus Goodguys last year, very cool piece and had a crowd around it all day.

Hey, when Fieros first came out, mid engine, two seaters, I can remember dreaming of having one. Then once they hit the streets, what a POS. Over half of them burned to the ground because battery acid would eat thru the fuel lines and create a fire. Of course, I guess after looking on Ebay at "protouring cars" for sale you could always put a set of TTIIs on anything and call it a day....lol


No offense Bill but that is complete and utter BS. All of it. The fires were because the first year they had a bad batch of connecting rods because of a subcontractor. After that the problem was solved providing the owner kept up on maintenance just like any other car. If You really want I can get exact specifics of how many burned. The number was surprisingly low. I have had 11 of these and never had a problem. As I posted earlier there were over 367K built. Now please don't tell me you think 180K burned?

[406 Q-ship]

More cars........71 - 74 B-body Satellite/Cornet, A-body Dart/Valiant, Duster/Demon

[Bill Howell]

Quite fleabay search found some possiblities
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/AMC-javelin-SST_W0QQitemZ260457465019QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Car s_Trucks?hash=item3ca47984bb&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1973-AMC-Javelin-P-S-P-B-A-C-Buckets-Console-NICE_W0QQitemZ220462057348QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Ca rs_Trucks?hash=item3354900784&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1975-AMC-PACER-COUPE_W0QQitemZ230363640959QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_C ars_Trucks?hash=item35a2be347f&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245

maybe even this
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1976-Gremlin-X_W0QQitemZ270438144651QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Cars_ Trucks?hash=item3ef75e9a8b&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245

But not these
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1979-AMC-Spirit-AMX-360-4-speed-No-Rust_W0QQitemZ260458022858QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Ca rs_Trucks?hash=item3ca48207ca&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245
http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/1977-AMC-HORNET-AMX_W0QQitemZ300334707953QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUS_Car s_Trucks?hash=item45ed57f4f1&_trksid=p4506.c0.m245

[406 Q-ship]

That black Pacer on the power tour a couple years ago was the bomb and fast too.
How about a AMX?

AMX unless you do an 71 up are expensive and hard to get parts. AMX Spirit?

1971 - 1974 Javalin

[Bill Howell]

No offense Bill but that is complete and utter BS. All of it. The fires were because the first year they had a bad batch of connecting rods because of a subcontractor. After that the problem was solved providing the owner kept up on maintenance just like any other car. If You really want I can get exact specifics of how many burned. The number was surprisingly low. I have had 11 of these and never had a problem. As I posted earlier there were over 367K built. Now please don't tell me you think 180K burned?

I am talking about the fires caused by battery corrosion of fuel lines. The lines were close to the battery or ran directly under the battery. Maybe it was just in Macon, Ga they had the problem and maybe that was because of poor owner maintenance, but I was in the towing business at the time (1986-1996) and it was a regular accurance. I am sure I am overboard with the 1/2 number but hardly ever did other models have the same issue.
Sorry, I am sure you and others loved those cars, and that is cool, but thinking of them as a cool protouring project, I just don't see the masses running to Books-a-million to get the latest copy of PHR.

[The Stickman]

AMX unless you do an 71 up are expensive and hard to get parts. AMX Spirit?

1971 - 1974 Javalin


Since you are talking AMC's the Gremlin actually won a few championships road racing in IMSA RS series. They competed against cars like BMW 2002, RX2's And Dutsun 510's

[The Stickman]

I am talking about the fires caused by battery corrosion of fuel lines. The lines were close to the battery or ran directly under the battery. Maybe it was just in Macon, Ga they had the problem and maybe that was because of poor owner maintenance, but I was in the towing business at the time (1986-1996) and it was a regular accurance. I am sure I am overboard with the 1/2 number but hardly ever did other models have the same issue.
Sorry, I am sure you and others loved those cars, and that is cool, but thinking of them as a cool protouring project, I just don't see the masses running to Books-a-million to get the latest copy of PHR.


the fuel lines don't run under or close to the battery. The tank is dead center of the car. The battery is on the passenger side and the lines run from the tank up the driverside.

[Bill Howell]

OK, you win. Seems it was 1 in 508 that had fire issues that first year.
http://books.google.com/books?id=Q5QfVZuQs9UC&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=Flaming+fiero&source=bl&ots=CE16-LPQDK&sig=SqV5IHm046Akrb_BwJOMMNaHdMw&hl=en&ei=eBN6SrKbEKewtgeLkN2WCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10#v=onepage&q=&f=false

Then there were the other fire issues
http://www.epinions.com/review/auto_Make-1984_Pontiac_Fiero/content_295832227460


The number of 69 camaros produced is about 1/2 of the total number of Fieros produced in what? 5 years of production? There must be a reason the quit making them?

I must be wrong about the cause of the fires, and honestly, didn't care then or now. I know, like most models that fade away, there is a cult like following for these cars, but the point is, and reason of this thread is what is a good idea for budget build. I don't see a Fiero as fitting that build, just me. Lets agree to disagree:)

[Damn True]

I'd stay away from the late 2nd Gen Camaro. Or anything after 1976 for that matter. If you try to do anything serious with the engine you may not be able to smog the thing.....[cough-cough]....seems like a big can-o-worms for a "budget build".....unless you do an LSX swap or some other very new OE crate motor.

That said.

Bill,
Do you remember the BF-Goodrich Racing AMC Spirit's?

http://www.hemmings.com/mus/stories/2005/02/01/hmn_feature17.html


If it were me, I'd do an early 510 track/auto-x car. Tons of them around still in drier states. Parts are plentiful and it wouldn't take much additional power to make one really honk. Pop in a GMPP ecotec crate motor and some suspension bits and have a ball wheels and tires in those sizes will be dirt cheap to boot. Unlike a late 70's Camaro, you might actually get a good chunk of money back out of it. Finished 510's sell well.

[Steve1968LS2]

The truth is that it costs the same to build a '69 Camaro as it does to build a '75 Laguna

The only difference is in the initial car price and that $$ will be made back when the car is sold.

In fact one could say it's almost cheaper and easier to build a popular car since there's a TON of aftermarket support.

If I were being odd I would build a Corvair with a turbocharged Ecotec engine.. lightweight and FAST.

[The Stickman]

OK, you win. Seems it was 1 in 508 that had fire issues that first year.
http://books.google.com/books?id=Q5QfVZuQs9UC&pg=PA107&lpg=PA107&dq=Flaming+fiero&source=bl&ots=CE16-LPQDK&sig=SqV5IHm046Akrb_BwJOMMNaHdMw&hl=en&ei=eBN6SrKbEKewtgeLkN2WCQ&sa=X&oi=book_result&ct=result&resnum=10#v=onepage&q=&f=false

Then there were the other fire issues
http://www.epinions.com/review/auto_Make-1984_Pontiac_Fiero/content_295832227460


The number of 69 camaros produced is about 1/2 of the total number of Fieros produced in what? 5 years of production? There must be a reason the quit making them?

I must be wrong about the cause of the fires, and honestly, didn't care then or now. I know, like most models that fade away, there is a cult like following for these cars, but the point is, and reason of this thread is what is a good idea for budget build. I don't see a Fiero as fitting that build, just me. Lets agree to disagree:)

Well we can disagree. And like I said it was only the 1984's as both of you articles mention. One year then the problems were adressed. And as to the thread it's about budget builds. These are good cars that can be had cheap and modified cheap. And can be made to do great things. I know people with 383 stroker motors putting out 600+hp in a car that is less than 3000lbs. Now if that isn't fun I don't know what is. Hell I bought my IMSA wide bodied full race engined Fiero for all of $2500.

[dcozzi]

Being a rookie with an unfinished car, take it easy on me.

How about an S-10? You can do a V-8 conversion for the price of a motor and about $800 in parts and some labor. If you could overcome some of the extreme front weight bias, brace the frame and use a decent overdrive trans. it could be fun. Lots of those trucks for dirt cheap and easy to work on in a normal garage (no lift and regular hand tools and a welder). Single 3" exhaust, 350HP and some suspension goodies (that are plentiful as well) and you could have a fun budget ride. A short bed with a truckarm suspension in the rear would be quick and dirty.

[Hartz]

You know, I don't post much, and I respect the hell out of Bill, but I have to completely disagree.

In the interest of full disclosure, I've owned a V8 Fiero, and I currently own a juiced V8 Miata.

But you say don't build something odd, and then eliminate Camaros, Mustangs, '55 Chevys, etc. etc. Hello! Anything else IS odd because you just named all of the most popular cars!

And I don't have $75K in ALL of my cars combined, let alone any one of them. Yet they're decent enough looking, fun as all get out, and yes - different.

I have WAY more fun with my V8 Miata than I do my '67 Camaro. You know why? Because no one looks twice at it. Sometimes it's fun to catch people by surprise. Sometimes it's fun to mess with people's perceptions of what is and is not a hot rod.

I say show the guy who has a limited budget that he doesn't have to go out and spend big bucks on a Camaro or Mustang in order to be cool. Build an 11 second Fairmont for under $11K. Stuff a 350 TPI in to the back of a Fiero. Throw $15K at a Volarie and make it the nicest in the world, heck - go crazy and put a Quad 4 in an Opel GT - whatever. There are lots of choices. But make it budget friendly and cool and I'll be right there with you.

[Damn True]

^^^ a v-8 Miata would be very cool! ^^^

All you need, right here: http://www.flyinmiata.com/

Get yourself a set of asbestos undies though. The 'necks will go nuts with the hate mail.

[joemac]

Early '90s V8 T-bird. Less commonly hot rodded than the mustang, independent rear, and I have a '97 I would love ideas on!

This is the one that gets my vote. You can pick a factory supercharged v6 or a v8 model that either has the sbf or mod motor. Your choice. Ford drivetrain parts are plentiful and you see very few tbirds of this era even though they are cheap, plentiful and easy to mod. The only drawback to this platform is there are little to no aftermarket rear suspension components, so to get the rear to handle big power they would need to be custom. Then again, Pro Tourning isn't necessarily about making big power. There are irs cobra guys running 9's through a mostly stock irs that is very similar.

[FULMNTE]

First Gen Montes (70-72) are still affordable (compared to Chevelles)...

[Bill Howell]

Gawd, I love to stir emotions and make people think! lol

[The Stickman]

Being a rookie with an unfinished car, take it easy on me.

How about an S-10? You can do a V-8 conversion for the price of a motor and about $800 in parts and some labor. If you could overcome some of the extreme front weight bias, brace the frame and use a decent overdrive trans. it could be fun. Lots of those trucks for dirt cheap and easy to work on in a normal garage (no lift and regular hand tools and a welder). Single 3" exhaust, 350HP and some suspension goodies (that are plentiful as well) and you could have a fun budget ride. A short bed with a truckarm suspension in the rear would be quick and dirty.


I actually built an S-10 for AutoX and road racing. Only thing is I kept the V-6. While it didn't have the power other cars had I could eat them up in the braking zones and cornering. was actually quite simple build. But I wouldn't call it cheap because I boght the truck new and then did this to it. But now they can be had cheap and built easy.

[CRCRFT78]

Hey Liz what about your 510?

[CRCRFT78]

If you try and do anything serious with the engine you may not be able to smog the thing

I have to agree and disagree with True. This issue needs to be addressed. All of the smog vehicles are the next affordable cars/projects. Yes it can be costly to make these vehicles compliant with regulations but someone has to step up. How are we supposed to continue this hobby if we don't advance to the next level? SMOG & CARB regulations will only get stricter as time goes on and in order to preserve these vehicles we need to comply with them. The technology is there so how about some info on making them compliant.

G-bodies are just a few of the cars that can easily be modified, along with 2nd/3rd gen F-bodies, B-bodies and so on. What good is swapping an LSX/6 speed combo in them if the government is just going to force us to tear them apart because they don't comply with government standards.

Where would some of the cars/projects we see on these websites be if the government enforced smog laws on all of them?

Sorry for the rant I just hate to see this being ignored.

[andrewb70]

There have been numerous guys that have successfully been able to get 2nd and 3rd gen RX7s with LS1 swaps to pass smog in California. As I understand it, the rule is that the engine has to be stock and must retain all emissions that were standard for the year of the engine. The engine must also be from a newer car than the chassis.

A stock LS3 in a lightweight 79 Monte Carlo would be great. It would be totally smog legal as long as it had stock exhaust manifolds and catalytic converters.

Andrew

[Steve1968LS2]

I have to agree and disagree with True. This issue needs to be addressed. All of the smog vehicles are the next affordable cars/projects. Yes it can be costly to make these vehicles compliant with regulations but someone has to step up. How are we supposed to continue this hobby if we don't advance to the next level? SMOG & CARB regulations will only get stricter as time goes on and in order to preserve these vehicles we need to comply with them. The technology is there so how about some info on making them compliant.

G-bodies are just a few of the cars that can easily be modified, along with 2nd/3rd gen F-bodies, B-bodies and so on. What good is swapping an LSX/6 speed combo in them if the government is just going to force us to tear them apart because they don't comply with government standards.

Where would some of the cars/projects we see on these websites be if the government enforced smog laws on all of them?

Sorry for the rant I just hate to see this being ignored.

Yea, but the truth is that there are LOTS of affordable pre '76 cars out there to build.

But more stories on doing "smog legal" engines or swaps would be cool. Like how to drop in an LS engine and make it through CA's referee process.

[Steve1968LS2]

Gawd, I love to stir emotions and make people think! lol

I still think they missed your overall point that it costs the same to fix up a unpopular car as it does to fix up a popular car...

[brownz]

I vote Corvair. but that later 60"s those are sweet. but they arnt the cheapest car out if you get a nice one but not many ppl do them.

[Zee]

I love the Vair idea but I'm thinking it should feature primarily bolt ons from your advertisers rather than a lot of custom work from one shop. My first vote is a thirdgen with a tubular K frame, air ride or coil overs, TKO and maybe an LSX. C5/6 brakes and a 4th gen rear end could be added on a budget. Second choice would be a nasty BBC or carb'd LSX disco nova. I remember a lowered yellow one with a six-pack hood painted flat black would terrorize my old hood. It had black wheels on it before they were cool. I believe the chassis is the same as the 2nd gen F-body so C5/6 brakes, tubular control arms and swaybars are reasonable and redily available but that may be too close to a Laguna.......unless that is the point.

[Hartz]

Regardless of the vehicle chosen, I'd recommend a clear budget and goal. A lot of magazine project cars are interesting, but I sort of wonder what the point is. If you do a Fiero - make it out perform a Lotus Elise for half the price of a nice used one. Do a Chevette and make it out perform a new Mini Cooper S. Do a Malibu and have it out perform an M3. I don't know. But make it tangible and real. Include not only quarter mile and handling stats, but include MPG and aesthetics and reliability.

An odd ball car CAN cost as much as a popular car to build, but it doesn't have to. Don't buy a crate LS3 and a set of 18 inch billet wheels and put them on an Olds Omega. That's silly. Be creative.

[The Stickman]

I still think they missed your overall point that it costs the same to fix up a unpopular car as it does to fix up a popular car...


With the exception that the popular car costs more to buy initially. Camaro's, Nova's Mustang's or whatever cost more to buy than say a Maverick, Fiero, Gremlin or whatever you want. And in the end that should be taken itno account. Now as far as the emmisions go alot of what we do is suspension related so there is no reason why the stock engine can't be retained and modified within the law.

[CRCRFT78]

There have been numerous guys that have successfully been able to get 2nd and 3rd gen RX7s with LS1 swaps to pass smog in California. As I understand it, the rule is that the engine has to be stock and must retain all emissions that were standard for the year of the engine. The engine must also be from a newer car than the chassis.


Yes you can pass smog and still do a swap. My 78 with the LT1 passes and has a stock LT1 with cats, O2 sensors and stock manifolds but there is more to it than that. If I had to go to a referee I would be screwed.


the truth is that there are LOTS of affordable pre '76 cars out there to build.


That is correct but what type of "budget build" are we talking about? Pre 76 cars don't require smog which in turn would have no affect on your budget. Anything after that would require the vehicle to be compliant with the law. Which in turn affects your budget. Just don't present a build without covering all aspects of it. Don't smog a car with a stock v6, drop in a juiced 455 afterwards and present it as done. Magazines have done this. Go through the complete process for the vehicle chosen so those readers that want to attempt such a build have some indication of what they're getting themselves into. Again sorry for the rant.

[PT Sportwagon]

I tend to agree with what others have been saying about popularity of the car vs cash outlay. On thing is how many of us have gotten more for there cars then they put into it?

Ideas I have thought of:

Any of the Fox body cars: fairmont, zepher, mid size LTD
3rd gen camaro
any of the Panther platform cars: Crown victoria, grand marquis, Etc. ( just look at the patrol cars, they haul a$$$ and handle quite well, The 03-04 Merc Marauder is one bad a$$ ride)
The other A-bodies, Cutlass and Skylark
How about a wagon.

On thing you may want to look at is the cars the youth of today are getting given to them. sometimes from grandma or grandpa, mom, and Dad etc.
Doesn't emission standards have to meet the standards the car came with???

Tim

[CRCRFT78]

Doesn't emission standards have to meet the standards the car came with???

All that changes with engine swaps like Andrew stated. The motor has to be newer than the chassis its being installed in and it has to comply with the emissions standards for that year motor. Crate motors I'm unsure of. For instance my 78 Malibu has a 1996 motor in it, so legally I have to comply with emissions standards for that year motor. Please correct me if I am wrong because I would like to have the correct info if I'm misstating anything.

[Takid455]

what about the mid 80's dodges daytona, chargers or a ghls omni. dirt cheap and for a few bucks can break 12's.

[Damn True]

I have to agree and disagree with True. This issue needs to be addressed. All of the smog vehicles are the next affordable cars/projects. Yes it can be costly to make these vehicles compliant with regulations but someone has to step up. How are we supposed to continue this hobby if we don't advance to the next level? SMOG & CARB regulations will only get stricter as time goes on and in order to preserve these vehicles we need to comply with them. The technology is there so how about some info on making them compliant.

G-bodies are just a few of the cars that can easily be modified, along with 2nd/3rd gen F-bodies, B-bodies and so on. What good is swapping an LSX/6 speed combo in them if the government is just going to force us to tear them apart because they don't comply with government standards.

Where would some of the cars/projects we see on these websites be if the government enforced smog laws on all of them?

Sorry for the rant I just hate to see this being ignored.

Yes it "can" be done. But at what cost and to what audience? The intent is to do a budget build in a National mag. The difficulty and expense of meeting CA specific goofball smog requirements don't matter to the guy building a monte carlo in Utah. The end result wouldn't offer the power that one could make in other states AND it would likely cost more to create less.

[Damn True]

There have been numerous guys that have successfully been able to get 2nd and 3rd gen RX7s with LS1 swaps to pass smog in California. As I understand it, the rule is that the engine has to be stock and must retain all emissions that were standard for the year of the engine. The engine must also be from a newer car than the chassis.

A stock LS3 in a lightweight 79 Monte Carlo would be great. It would be totally smog legal as long as it had stock exhaust manifolds and catalytic converters.

Andrew


Winner winner, chicken dinner.

This is the key is to not screw around with the boat anchor in the post-smog crapcan, but to put a new engine into it and make it a more desirable crapcan. Hence my suggestion of the ectotec 510.

[JV69z/28]

How about a rubber bumper C3 Corvette - reasonable buy in - a ton of aftermarket support - and by todays standards it's easy to work on?

[tymbom]

I second the vette idea...

[dj3]

Do you ever watch the show Gearz and see what he did with a Mazda Miata, it looks like a fun and cool looking car.



http://www.gearztv.com/projects/banshee.html

[Steve1968LS2]

An odd ball car CAN cost as much as a popular car to build, but it doesn't have to. Don't buy a crate LS3 and a set of 18 inch billet wheels and put them on an Olds Omega. That's silly. Be creative.

No, an oddball car costs EXACTLY the same as a popular car provided you do the same level of work to each car.

For the same quality paint job.. with the same amount of bodywork what costs more to paint.. a Camaro or a Vega?

[Steve1968LS2]

With the exception that the popular car costs more to buy initially. Camaro's, Nova's Mustang's or whatever cost more to buy than say a Maverick, Fiero, Gremlin or whatever you want. And in the end that should be taken itno account. Now as far as the emmisions go alot of what we do is suspension related so there is no reason why the stock engine can't be retained and modified within the law.

But's it worth MUCH more in the end...

How do you build a $10k Monza (or vega, or ventura, or etc)... spend $30k.. lol

Now buying a Vega for $2k and putting another $8k into it is cool.. putting $20k into it not wise unless it's your dream car and you're gonna keep it forever.

In other words if you go oddball then you need to spend as little on the build as possible/reasonable.

[novaderrik]

forget about setting a budget- they mean nothing in magazine builds, anyways, where a "budget" Laguna build has probably $30k in it and a "real world" mid 70's Camaro that probably has more than the Laguna invested.
just get a long term project and do a little here and a little there, while keeping it on the road the whole time with minimal downtime. it doesn't matter what it is, as long as the readership can relate to it and actually try to emulate some or all of the stuff that is done to it. call it "project Y", since you know, it is the letter after "X"..

[The Stickman]

But's it worth MUCH more in the end...

How do you build a $10k Monza (or vega, or ventura, or etc)... spend $30k.. lol

Now buying a Vega for $2k and putting another $8k into it is cool.. putting $20k into it not wise unless it's your dream car and you're gonna keep it forever.

In other words if you go oddball then you need to spend as little on the build as possible/reasonable.


I don't build cars thinking about what they will resell for. I build a car for me and only me. I also didn't see where the article would even consider that. It's about a Budget build. Getting the most out of the least. If one only has X amount of dollars, is it best to spend alot of it on the car and only be able to accomplish some of their goals? Or spend much less on the car and make it do most all of what you want?

[larknut]

Build a Buick, Skylark or Apollo.

What is the budget anyway?

[Hartz]

No, an oddball car costs EXACTLY the same as a popular car provided you do the same level of work to each car.

For the same quality paint job.. with the same amount of bodywork what costs more to paint.. a Camaro or a Vega?

No question - the same quality paint work would cost the same regardless of the vehicle the spray hits. But the point is that for a cheap odd-ball car, you don't do that. If I have a numbers matching 396 RS/SS Camaro - that's a car that's worth doing right, and I probably don't feel bad about spending $10K on paint. If I'm building a 3800 V6 Chevette, I spend well less than 1/10 of that amount on paint.

[MonzaRacer]

Why cut corners? I have had to build on near zero budgets, beg and borrow to get some parts and simply built cars that I drove till I couldnt or they got damaged/wrecked/sold.
I have seen $10k paint jobs that i would put $2k paint jobs against.
As for me Ill build a great car, and spend time for good body work and then worry about paint. A lot of decent cars run around with the $2k to $3k paint jobs. If it takes $10to $15 k to impress well I guess I wont impress.
My Monza will get as straight a body as I can give it, and as many coats of paint as I can afford. And Ill try to keep it straight.
I can do a lot of block sanding and detail work on my own.

Dare to be different used to be a motto, and budget builds used to be what we had a passion for, then as the ones with vision and drive got cash and credit we wind up back in the $20k to $100k+ car builds. Thats fine for companies that can justify it for advertisement, but why do WE as a community have to?
Let me show you how a budget build goes, I dont think you will ever believe what can be done, on a budget, but I do.
Because I have done it.
Hopefully my Monza will impress someone, even less the $15k paint job

[derekf]

I don't really have a dog in this race as I let all my car magazine subscriptions lapse years ago.

However, if the goal is to do a "budget build" and you want to get my attention enough to pick up a copy of the magazine do a true budget build. I don't CARE what body it wears, but the budget builds I'd seen in the magazine where "we bought part x from such and such, and part y from so and so" aren't so much budget. How about one where every part short of consumables (belts, hoses, plugs) comes from a salvage yard, where the parts are adapted to fit old-school hotrodding style?

[joemac]

Interesting, like a challenge to see how fast you can go with modified stock parts?(in reference to the above post since I didn't qoute it)

[The Stickman]

That's a good idea. Make it a budget build where nothing can be bought from a vendor or suppier. Everying must come from either parts already on hand, on the car or bought local and used or from places like craigslist or ebay. Same for the car. Set a price for a car ahead of time before the type of car is chosen then look for one local that meets that price.

[Twentyover]

Reality is, advertisers subsidize our subscriptions. To get advertiser support, you need to promote advertiser's products. Reality of the game. Only real exceptions I've seen are GrassRoots Motorsports 200X challenge, and Practical Performance Car's 999 pound challenge (sorry, I don't know the ascii for British pound sterling)

So while it's likely they may start w/ a budget body, don't anticipate cheep stuff on the car

[Steve1968LS2]

I don't build cars thinking about what they will resell for. I build a car for me and only me. I also didn't see where the article would even consider that. It's about a Budget build. Getting the most out of the least. If one only has X amount of dollars, is it best to spend alot of it on the car and only be able to accomplish some of their goals? Or spend much less on the car and make it do most all of what you want?


Well that's good and all.. but some people like to think they can get a good portion of their $$$ back if they sell. Some don't care. But either way people need to consider it.

And again with the budget deal.. did you know the US has a "budget".. yep, it's trillions of dollars. lol --- I would think a better term woud be "low buck".. after all, even Riddler cars have a budget.

My only point was that once you have the car all the rest costs exactly the same. I don't know why that a tough concept. I never said "Don't buy car X" Buy the car you like, just don't have the misconception that because the car is an oddball that it somehow will be less expensive to modify.

[James OLC]

My suggestion - Early 80's Mercury Capri - cars are cheap, parts interchange with Mustang bits, you don't see a lot of them and they are not bad cars either.

[Bryce]

I havent read all the posts yet. but a lincoln mark VIII. would be awesome.

4.6 4cam motor. so drop in a ford GT 5.4 super charged motor. independent rear suspension with air bags on all four corners. and really cheap for a 94 model. look in to it.

[GrabberGT]

I scanned this thread looking for Maverick to be suggested. Didnt see it so here it is. They are cheap to get into and most all the parts from your current Street Fighter Project will bolt right up to it with little or no modification.

To Steves point though, (not sure that discussions relevance to the original question as I didnt read much of it) dont expect to get out of it what you put in.

Please do a Maverick build.

I think I copied this concept from ModMav71
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/sinister20mav-1.jpg

[BADNBLK]

3rd gen Camaro vote again (Of course I would). Would really like to see a budget 6.2L VVT engine with T56. Make it pass CARB, and see what type of fuel mileage the swap can offer.

[JayR]

Hey Liz, How about alternate A-Bodies? Any aftermarket A-Body part bolts right onto all of them which cost about half as much as a Chevelle.

For instance, my Skylark project https://www.pro-touring.com/forum/showthread.php?t=57251

[Steve1968LS2]

I scanned this thread looking for Maverick to be suggested. Didnt see it so here it is. They are cheap to get into and most all the parts from your current Street Fighter Project will bolt right up to it with little or no modification.

To Steves point though, (not sure that discussions relevance to the original question as I didnt read much of it) dont expect to get out of it what you put in.

Please do a Maverick build.



I suggested a Maveric when I was at PHR.. I got shot down. Jody over at lat-g had a mint one for cheap.. would have been so cool. So I ended up doing the Fairlane.

[justasquid]

Concerning the comments that a build is going to cost the same no matter what car it is. I have to disagree. that was the whole reason I was suggesting a Fiero. It will take a lot more money to make an old heavy car handle as good as the fiero does stock. You are dealing with a lot less weight in the fiero, so any minor changes you make, are going gain a bigger difference than a heavier car would show. Plus being light, a lower hp engine can be dropped in to get the same result that a much higher hp engine would have to with a heavier car. to put the cars on the same level, the Fiero will cost less.. At least I think it would.

The V-8 Miata that was mentioned would be a great car too. I know there are a few companies out there that sell kits to make it that much easier. Nothing like a modern day Cobra.

[GrabberGT]

I suggested a Maveric when I was at PHR.. I got shot down. Jody over at lat-g had a mint one for cheap.. would have been so cool. So I ended up doing the Fairlane.

You know, mine has been mistaken for a 2nd gen Camaro on more than one occasion. Maybe a Mav project could find a home in your Mag. LOL
Better check with PHR before running with it though. I talked to them first. :eek:

I'm a little ashamed to say it but I know someone with an LSx in his Mav if that will make you feel better.

[jackfrost]

I'd just like to see something different.

early alternate A-bodies. Olds Omega? Olds Jetfire?

[jy211]

what about a duster?

[Damn True]

Liz,

Take your 510 and put a GMPP turbo ecotec crate motor in it. 260hp and great mileage in a light car that handles well, and has a prolific performance aftermarket for suspension bits.

Or a V8 Miata. Nothing has a performance aftermarket like Miata's do. Nothing.

[TonyL]

Man I wish I was not below Bill's post when I mention this next car but I have to, The Corvair.

LOL. I woulda said Corvair too. Talk about "budget". Thing is, there's nothing in it for a magazine. I DARE PHR to build one. Thing is, they'd have to do it themselves There aren't piles of vendors clamoring to give them any parts, because their just isn't any. Big brake kit? lowering springs? crate motors? interior kits? Good luck finding a vendor making some.

These cars require a true budget build. One that means research and development, and hard work. Not dialing up the phone to get someone to donate time and parts.
The vair would be the cheapest project car ever done by a magazine. It'd be good timing too, thanks to our 20+ mpg on a hopped up motor, cheap cars, and cheap parts. You want handling? Drop a vair, set it up properly and see why they still win races and autocross events today with the stock suspension parts.

It'll never happen though. Corvairs are just to weird to 90% of hot rodding book readers. They dont make the right sound, and the engine is in the wrong end of the car.

The most logical choice for PHR? G body. Hands down. readily made parts and services exist.

[Bow Tie 67]

G-body, C3, or C4

[MilesSpeed]

man this thread exploded! there's no set budget for the car, just looking for something more affordable than the chevelle, camaro, mustang fastback family.

[novaderrik]

That's a good idea. Make it a budget build where nothing can be bought from a vendor or suppier. Everying must come from either parts already on hand, on the car or bought local and used or from places like craigslist or ebay. Same for the car. Set a price for a car ahead of time before the type of car is chosen then look for one local that meets that price.

the only problem is that the magazines always seem to just happen to have a set of big flowing aluminum heads and a matching intake and carb "just laying around the shop". they also seem to always have premium aftermarket suspension parts and expensive wheels taking up space, too.
just get whatever car can be had for cheap, and do it the way Car Craft would have done it 15 years ago..
trans mount broken? no problem- grab some hose clamps.
driveshaft hitting the trans tunnel? grab a hammer and clearance it.

[cantvalve16]

Relating to the budget thing, why not build something mainstream, but on a tight budget? As many stock parts as possible. Nothing trick. Just stuff that really makes a difference.

Guess that wouldn't sell much add space though.

[CRCRFT78]

I know your asking us for suggestions but why not have a list of say maybe 10 or so vehicles that aren't popular (Camaro, Mustang or Cuda) and let the readers decide by voting on the PHR website. Then build that as your budget project. You've already got a nice list of suggestions.

[Steve1968LS2]

the only problem is that the magazines always seem to just happen to have a set of big flowing aluminum heads and a matching intake and carb "just laying around the shop". they also seem to always have premium aftermarket suspension parts and expensive wheels taking up space, too.
just get whatever car can be had for cheap, and do it the way Car Craft would have done it 15 years ago..
trans mount broken? no problem- grab some hose clamps.
driveshaft hitting the trans tunnel? grab a hammer and clearance it.

Man, we never have "stuff" just laying around... I need to go work for this magazine!

[ADaughen]

'78 Pinto Cruisn' Wagon... FI 302, T5, 3.73 posi, 8.8", 16" wheels, Grenada 11" rotors... I have ~$1500 into the car. I need paint, body work and odds 'n ends (maybe another ~$3000 with paint).

THAT is a budget build. ;)

[ADaughen]

the only problem is that the magazines always seem to just happen to have a set of big flowing aluminum heads and a matching intake and carb "just laying around the shop". they also seem to always have premium aftermarket suspension parts and expensive wheels taking up space, too.
just get whatever car can be had for cheap, and do it the way Car Craft would have done it 15 years ago..
trans mount broken? no problem- grab some hose clamps.
driveshaft hitting the trans tunnel? grab a hammer and clearance it.


My wife's uncle just happened to have two built 8.8" posi-traks laying around... He gave me both, along with a bushing kit and some other SBF stuff. :D

[Steve1968LS2]

My wife's uncle just happened to have two built 8.8" posi-traks laying around... He gave me both, along with a bushing kit and some other SBF stuff. :D

What magazine are you with since it would see this only happens to magazines and not "real people".. lol

[ADaughen]

What magazine are you with since it would see this only happens to magazines and not "real people".. lol


"Adam's crappy cars that spend more time on jack stands than on the road"

I have two subscribers. :1st:

[bbcc]

Two years ago I decided to do an s-10 blazer. Cheap, easy to find parts, relativly light, and unsuspecting. Finaly found one other guy who had the same vision as I do. His is done, and I like to say this is how I've always invisioned mine.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img19.imageshack.us/my.php?image=27277017567d07a54384b.jpg)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2728882587beb0bde8a4b.jpg)


I'll have my own take on the asthetics of course. But just plain knarly imo.

Here's a buddy's miata. The car regularly kills vettes and proches at the local track.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/IMG_2841-1.jpg


Ryer

[ADaughen]

Two years ago I decided to do an s-10 blazer. Cheap, easy to find parts, relativly light, and unsuspecting. Finaly found one other guy who had the same vision as I do. His is done, and I like to say this is how I've always invisioned mine.


https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img19.imageshack.us/my.php?image=27277017567d07a54384b.jpg)
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif (http://img14.imageshack.us/my.php?image=2728882587beb0bde8a4b.jpg)


Exactly.

My uncle has a LT1 powered 1st gen S10 he paid $5000.

I'd love to do the same with my sister's 91 Blazer. Turn it into a Cyclone-clone.

[larknut]

I'm sure this will get shot down but how about a Chevy fullsize squarebody truck, of the '73-'87 years. Of course it won't be the fastest and most agile thing out there but it's definatly different. And again there is always a Skylark or Apollo.

I say forget the budget and just build something out of the ordinary. It'll be refreshing.

[joemac]

I havent read all the posts yet. but a lincoln mark VIII. would be awesome.

4.6 4cam motor. so drop in a ford GT 5.4 super charged motor. independent rear suspension with air bags on all four corners. and really cheap for a 94 model. look in to it.

This is essentially the same thing under the skin as the same year thunderbird or cougar except several hundred lbs heavier. Now a thunderbird with the mark viii powertrain would be interesting and pretty cheap.

[79-TA]

If you're worried about saving some money, how about some basic tuning articles? That is, working with what you already have. The G-28 is the antithesis of this idea as it keeps getting different suspensions and powertrains, but is never actually tracked enough to get sorted out.


Maybe write some articles on what it takes to make a car trackworthy. I'm not talking hardcore, just reliable, safe, and fairly quick. And if you do, don't go with radical (read expensive) transformations. In the case of brakes, avoid complete brake kits from Wilwood or Baer; just get decent pads, rotors, and lines. In the case of suspension, hold off on the A-arm kits and drop spindles. Just see what shocks, springs, and swaybars can do. Just a thought . . . perhaps more appropriate for Grassroots Motorsports Magazine.


Last idea: Lincoln Mark VIII. Not the car necessarily, but some of the parts. The car comes with what is essentially an underbuilt 5.4 Cobra engine. That should be a good starting point for many different Ford-based projects.








The number of 69 camaros produced is about 1/2 of the total number of Fieros produced in what? 5 years of production? There must be a reason the quit making them?




It's not fair to quote the '69 production numbers. We all know that the second gen Camaro was delayed, so 1st gen production was extended (or perhaps not cut off early is another way to look at it) all the way through '69.








No, an oddball car costs EXACTLY the same as a popular car provided you do the same level of work to each car.



For the same quality paint job.. with the same amount of bodywork what costs more to paint.. a Camaro or a Vega?



That is until said oddball car needs custom headers for the V8 you stuffed in it etc. Even headers for Olds equipped (stock engine!) Trans Ams are hard to find.








I don't really have a dog in this race as I let all my car magazine subscriptions lapse years ago.



However, if the goal is to do a "budget build" and you want to get my attention enough to pick up a copy of the magazine do a true budget build. I don't CARE what body it wears, but the budget builds I'd seen in the magazine where "we bought part x from such and such, and part y from so and so" aren't so much budget. How about one where every part short of consumables (belts, hoses, plugs) comes from a salvage yard, where the parts are adapted to fit old-school hotrodding style?

Car Craft much?

[67autocross]

I'm sure this will get shot down but how about a Chevy fullsize squarebody truck, of the '73-'87 years. Of course it won't be the fastest and most agile thing out there but it's definatly different. And again there is always a Skylark or Apollo.

I say forget the budget and just build something out of the ordinary. It'll be refreshing.


Do it!!!!!!!! Mine works better in the real world ( pot holes, speed bumps and gravel cover streets ) than most cars/

[BADNBLK]

I'm sure this will get shot down but how about a Chevy fullsize squarebody truck, of the '73-'87 years. Of course it won't be the fastest and most agile thing out there but it's definatly different. And again there is always a Skylark or Apollo.

I say forget the budget and just build something out of the ordinary. It'll be refreshing.

Hot Rod mag has been builiding one for a little while now. Don't remember the name. Carbed lsx? and air bags.

[derekf]

Car Craft much?Not sure what you mean.

[79-TA]

They're one of the only magazines consistently doing junkyard crawls and throwing out ideas for using salvage yard sourced parts.

[novaderrik]

there is an '87 Toyota Supra with no motor or trans for sale on the Fargo Craigslist for $200..
ad says it even has a title..
jam a junkyard sourced 5.3 out of a newer truck in it backed with a manual trans, and it would be one fun little rocket..

[MCMLXIX]

late 60's Volvo 2dr sedan.... 122s

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[MCMLXIX]

There is also the 1959-1960 American Rambler

Lowered w/ 18's - LS2/T56

before .. https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/ramblercars1-1.jpg.. after .. https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[larknut]

Hot Rod mag has been builiding one for a little while now. Don't remember the name. Carbed lsx? and air bags.

Yea, but that one is just for straight lines. Everyone does bagged trucks too. I'd want to see coilovers or the like.

[pimtina]

I'm thinkin' "disco" era Nova. Cheap to buy, odd but not too odd, and really not to hard on to eyes! Keep it real world - LS powered, 5-speed, 'Vette brakes etc. Try sourceing(sp) used parts as much as possible while still keeping your advertisers happy!
Just my 2 cents worth - or your could finish the car in my sig:idea:!!

[67autocross]

Next up for me is this 67 Dart Post I have sitting in the shop, like my short box Chev truck the buy in on these type of cars is low so your not broke before you even start the project. You can make these cars very good with the factory front end (with some up grades)and leaf spring rear. No other cars made in the 60's or 70's can be made handle better then these cars for the money.

[davisrg117]

You never see any pro-touring Javelin's. I, personally am a big fan of the 1970 and below Jav's and would love to build a pro-touring one.

[ajjones44]

How about a slow-touring project. A big bodied 69-70 LeSabre,Caprice, or Impala would be different. Those vehicles are not high priced and the build could focus on some suspension upgrades, brakes, and wheels. Hell....depending on whats done I would be willing to purchase it.

[OLDFLM]

Liz,

FWIW I'm digging the idea of using your 510 with an EcoTech or building a Corvair! The Corvair's just can't be beat on a budget really! Stuffing a Grand National V6 Turbo into a Chevette is appealing too! AND I'd build the entire project sourcing everything off Craigslist!

HTH

V/R,
Ty

[MilesSpeed]

ooo ecotech 510! thats something to think about!

[Damn True]

Do it!

[OLDFLM]

ooo ecotech 510! thats something to think about!

Go for it Liz!!! You know the 510 has the aftermarket support in the handling department and the Ecotech would make it fly while remaining very balanced!!
:6gears:

[TonyHuntimer]

My list:
510, Vega, or Pinto 2 door wagons...LSX or Ecotec. Valiant, Duster, Maverick, Fairmont, Javelin, Falcon.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/pt/2009/08/vwagon74ErikAskjem045a-1.jpg


http://www.autabuy.com/Vehicles/Details.cfm?VID=315093&Year=1977&Make=CHEVROLET&Model=VEGA

[class67]

How about a 70-73 Duster.

[MCMLXIX]

http://lasvegas.craigslist.org/cto/1320363586.html

69 Datsun 510, 2 door project car. 280z struts and brakes, 200zx rear brake callipers, subauru LSD, New inbox BMW M3 headlights, 2 dash boards, 2 guage clusters, all wiring is there, stock engine does start, straight body, little rust

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[FoxGranadaChuck]

This is the one that gets my vote. You can pick a factory supercharged v6 or a v8 model that either has the sbf or mod motor. Your choice. Ford drivetrain parts are plentiful and you see very few tbirds of this era even though they are cheap, plentiful and easy to mod. The only drawback to this platform is there are little to no aftermarket rear suspension components, so to get the rear to handle big power they would need to be custom. Then again, Pro Tourning isn't necessarily about making big power. There are irs cobra guys running 9's through a mostly stock irs that is very similar.


Plus there is the issue of tires and wheels. MN12 Fords have a rather odd 5 X 4 1/4 wheel bolt pattern. Not many aftermarket wheels can be had in that diameter.

[joemac]

Plus there is the issue of tires and wheels. MN12 Fords have a rather odd 5 X 4 1/4 wheel bolt pattern. Not many aftermarket wheels can be had in that diameter.

The mn12 chassis cars can easily adapt the mustang hubs. The front is a direct swap and then you can use any aftermarket mustang brakes and the cobra hubs also swap on the rear, rear brakes are a little harder just need a custom caliper bracket. This allows the use of nearly all mustang wheels.

[ADaughen]

My list:
510, Vega, or Pinto 2 door wagons...LSX or Ecotec. Valiant, Duster, Maverick, Fairmont, Javelin, Falcon.




There was a really good looking custom late 70's Vega panel wagon, chopped, louvered hood, LT1, 15" wheels, the next town over in '99. I had a '78 Pinto Crusin' Wagon and LOVED it.

I still have my '78.

https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

I really like the Pre-77 model panel wagon
https://static1.pt-content.com/images/noimg.gif

[tracar91]

Early third gen Z28 (82-84) with a ecotec and 6 spd sourced from a solstice or sky. 100+ more horses than stock and way better gas mileage. Plus, imagine the looks you'd get opening the hood on cruise night!

[Rocco]

Being a road racing enthusiast, I've always been interested in mid-engined designs and I'm sure many of you have seen the mid-mounted smallblock Chevy Corvairs (originally created as a conversion kit in the late sixties by Crown). These cars varied in build quality but the best of them were very impressive - and light weight. Now a while ago I had seen an article in HOT ROD mag about a Viper V10 going into the front end of a Karmann Ghia, but wouldn't it be better to put a lighter V8 in the middle of one of these little cars. They sit low, with very small frontal area, are easily streamlined and are lightweight. (Of course you would pitch the stock suspension, etc.)

[MonzaRacer]

The yeloow car had a 355, TCI thm350, 3.42 geared S10 rear on swing arm suspension. 15x8.5 Outlaw IIs 275/60/15s and 15x7 w/225/50/15 fronts.S10 front brake conversion from V8Monza.com.
The blue one will have 283 with either the thm 350 or maybe a 4l60/4l60e.
Newer idea will be custom designed (also will be for sale) 4link bolt on rear kit with Air Rides CoolRide .
Up front will be SC&C SPC upper control arms, may try for some type of tubular lowers if I like design and most likely a set of Air Rides ShockWaves as front has little extra room.
Front brakes with ZQ8 spindles upgraded to C5/C6 brakes and may look for Blazer 8.5 and either with stock rear disc or adapt Vette or Fcar rea disc or some other incarnation.
My hope is to be able to add small To4b Vtrim turbos later on.
Cost cutting ideas will be Megasquirt (I will not spend over $1000 on complete FI set up, ever, unless building for much richer people thzn me).
The blue car will have some subtle low buck ideas like my own modified bucket seats(take 4 make 2 to fit)simple interior mods, reasonable (ie built on near zero budget) yet LOUD and sound good stereo.
I dont inted it to have cubic dollar paint job, maybe even drive way paint job if not a roller job(yes roller paint can look good). you want low buck, I have always had to do low buck, since I grew into car building that way spending more than couple thousand on a car is real foreign to me.
But times change, and so must I.
Now I always wondered about using a modified 2.3 Quad 4/2.4 TwinCam either turboed or supercharged even, but other car I was going to use for such a plan had to be crushed when metal was up and it sucks cause it was factory V8 with lots of good parts but I was BR?OKE due to unscrupulous past employer.

[MilesSpeed]

Ok guys, I'm coming up on the last couple hours before I turn this story in and there are a few things I'm missing. I was hoping you guys could help me out.

The first thing is I need a high-res, high-quality photo and couple sentences about it including year of the following cars:

Monza '75-'80
Fury '65-'73
Ventura '71-'77

I also need a website to refer people to for information and owner communication for the following cars:

'71-'72 Dodge Dart (Demon- if there is a specific site)
'72-'74 Dodge Challenger
'64-'74 Plymouth Satellite

Any help would be much appreciated! The cars will be featured in the December issue of PHR!

[Bill Howell]

Here is a good cuda-challenger site Liz

http://www.cuda-challenger.com/

[Damn True]

So this is just one of those "suggestions" pieces? Bummer. I thought you were going to build something.

Hunkins nixed the 510 idea huh?

[MilesSpeed]

thats for the cuda-challenger link!

yea, no 510 :(

[GrabberGT]

So this is just one of those "suggestions" pieces? Bummer. I thought you were going to build something.


I guess thats fine with me. It means that the Maverick idea can still become a future PHR project. :idea:

[Damn True]

yea, no 510 :(

Wouldn't want to build something that is light, handles well, cheap, plentiful and supported by a healthy aftermarket.

....and with the powertrain out of a Solstice GXP it would have been a HOOT!

[Tony_SS]

Hows about a Laguna! Oh wait..

I'd like to see PHR pick up the eco powered Chevette featured in a build thread here and finish it!

[MilesSpeed]

sorry guys, the laguna is on the list

[MilesSpeed]

I've got everything i need except for the Demon website

[6'9"Witha69]

http://www.valiant.org/

[shortrack]

I'm thinkin' "disco" era Nova. Cheap to buy, odd but not too odd, and really not to hard on to eyes! Keep it real world - LS powered, 5-speed, 'Vette brakes etc. Try sourceing(sp) used parts as much as possible while still keeping your advertisers happy!
Just my 2 cents worth - or your could finish the car in my sig:idea:!!

X2 - but go ballz out on the handling......like autocross level......get some steelies and some slicks for the autoX.....the suppliers will love it.......they got that camaro front clip......get some stock car susp parts if you want to go another direction....the dirt cheap route.....hell go to a race .....the racers will give you used slicks for free.

[shizzy]

I agree with the Alternate A body suggestion. Buick, Olds, Poncho. there must be plenty of More door Skylarks, Cutlass' and Lemans' laying around for cheap.

before I bought my 72 Cutlass Supreme I had my eye on a 70 Chevelle or a 71-72 Chevell as a second choice. It was near half the money for the same amount of car by going with the Cutlass. A clean 70 Chevelle was close to 10K, and I got my cutlass for 4K.

a 4 door 64-72 BOP A body with an LSx and over drive tranny swapped in. 8.5" 10 bolt (a few Olds had bolt in axles) and your choice of brake and suspension parts. keep the wheel and tire combo simple and a back yard paint job and there you go.

[ANIMOSITY]

Ill throw a vote for a late 80's T-bird super coupe. Fox body plateform, Throw in a 03 cobrs drive train with the IRS. or build-up the wicked turbo (Talk to Huber is St Louis about his 82 stang) and add the Irs still, and a t-56, and of couse lay it down in the weeds.

[blown9746]

actually I would say a less popular model usually ends up costing more to build because there is less aftermarket support. Parts may need to be modified or one off pieces fabbed where if you had a popular car you could just go buy an off the shelf piece.

[GMachineDartGT]

Dodge Dart. Not expensive to buy, and has the potential to wipe the floor with much more expensive pro touring style musclecars.

Moparts and ForAbodiesonly.com - Pro Touring is usually a bad word in the Mopar world though....

[shortrack]

- Pro Touring is usually a bad word in the Mopar world though....

why?

[vsefiream]

It's probably too late for this thread but I see a lot of '77 through '95 Corvettes for cheap. Usually averaging between 5-10 grand. That's a lot of bang for the buck!! Throw some nice wheels and tires and a good engine package and you could have a great car for under $15 grand all day long.

[GMachineDartGT]

Mopar people in general seem to be very conservative. The 18" wheels and lowered stance that is so welcomed in the GM/Ford community is usually outcasted by all but a few Moparphiles...

[6'9"Witha69]

Mopar people in general seem to be very conservative. The 18" wheels and lowered stance that is so welcomed in the GM/Ford community is usually outcasted by all but a few Moparphiles...
For the most part, Pontiac Guys are like that too.

[Ishmael]

Ya ya ya, ecotec 510 or anything else small, old but findable and cool, screw in an ecotec and go beat the snot out of some tuners.



This is the key is to not screw around with the boat anchor in the post-smog crapcan, but to put a new engine into it and make it a more desirable crapcan. Hence my suggestion of the ectotec 510.[/QUOTE]

[67autocross]

Mopar people in general seem to be very conservative. The 18" wheels and lowered stance that is so welcomed in the GM/Ford community is usually outcasted by all but a few Moparphiles...

Hey you know you can only have 2 types of wheels on a mopar, 14" magnums or the "big" 15" Ralleys!

[FoxGranadaChuck]

Mopar people in general seem to be very conservative. The 18" wheels and lowered stance that is so welcomed in the GM/Ford community is usually outcasted by all but a few Moparphiles...


Quite true.....

[FoxGranadaChuck]

Ok guys, I'm coming up on the last couple hours before I turn this story in and there are a few things I'm missing. I was hoping you guys could help me out.

The first thing is I need a high-res, high-quality photo and couple sentences about it including year of the following cars:

Monza '75-'80
Fury '65-'73
Ventura '71-'77

I also need a website to refer people to for information and owner communication for the following cars:

'71-'72 Dodge Dart (Demon- if there is a specific site)
'72-'74 Dodge Challenger
'64-'74 Plymouth Satellite

Any help would be much appreciated! The cars will be featured in the December issue of PHR!


If it were me, I would go with either the Challenger or the Satellite.