should i feel guilty spending this much money?

[69cam1219]

Well here's the story I am 21 and have a great job working for the railroad. I do still live at home but me and my parents get alone great and don't really mind it to bad. Well last may I bought my 69 camaro and about to put alot of money into it. DSE sub, quardalink, forge line wheels, and hopefully ls3 and t56. Well all my life I've been very tight with my money. I saved saved saved. Well I've always wanted a camaro. My dad has a 67 and always wanted one. Well when I got my job a present to myself was a 69 camaro. Then the pt bug bit me. I was gonna do the car very budget oriented but my parents told me if I plan on keeping the car forever (I hope) then do it the way I really want, that way down the road I won't have to spend money changing to something different or wish I went another direction. They said when I move out get a place and have kids the money will be hard to come by. Like my dad he didn't get his car till late in life. BUTTTTT my girlfriend of going on 6 years is on my case constantly about moving out and getting married. And I'd love to but I want to get my car squared away because heck I'm still young. Am I doing the wrong thing by spend money on DSE, forge line, etc.? Its just not like me spend this much money. The wisest thing would be save money for the house (which I still am saving some) but you need to have some fun while were here.

[BulldawgMusclecars]

Let me put it this way...and speaking from experience. Build the car the way you want, while you can still afford to do so, and no one else is trying to tell you how to spend your money. Otherwise, you'll probably wind up like a lot of car guys...giving in to the girlfriend/wannabe wife, having a bunch of kids, giving up the car, and winding up divorced a few years later anyway. If she can't wait for you to do this, or doesn't want you to do it, what makes you think that will change? It won't. Either she'll go away (which in the long run would be a good thing, if she wants to get in the way of your interests), or she won't...and you'll know at least that she has your interests at heart, and not just her own. At least if things go south, you'll have another car to go find the next one anyway!

[mpozzi]

Almost word-for-word what he said ... ^^^

If that car is causing issues in your relationship now, just wait until those rings are exchanged ...

Mary Pozzi

[SparkyRnD]

yep, if you (or anyone) thinks that putting a ring on her finger will fix any problem, it won't. Any problem that is there before getting married is most likely still going to be there afterwards, and will probably get worse. You are young, living at home, and have money coming in. As long as you have some good savings built up, then go ahead and build it the way you want. You will have many years to worry about mortgages, wife, kids and other stuff.

[HarleyR]

Do what makes you happy.... or be like me... instead of working on cars and building something great your gone 36 weekends a year...or work 12-13 hours a day 6 days a week the ones your home... pulled a thousand different directions and the only free time you have is your hour and a half commute each day...and forgetting what your house looks like in the daylight... spending money on a mortgage car payments... getting excited when you find a great deal on a steam mop (this was me Sat.) I however seriously excited for my new tv and outdoor furniture

[sik68]

Sounds like you're good at saving; now learn the value of a disposable dollar, too. Life won't get any simpler than it is right now.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

sheeeeeeet.... you are:

young.
unmarried.
got your own job.
got your own money.
got your own time.
not a parent.
AND your parents TOLD YOU TO DO IT?!?!

wow.. if that aint a clear sign to do the damn thing..

cause its true youngin.. you wont be able to do jack when you are married.. cause YOUR money is OUR money at that point.

finish the damn car.. let her complain to a brick wall.. and enjoy your ride

but moreover..

NEVER SELL IT.. if you go hard now.. youll regret it.



BTW... tell your female to slow the fusk down.. your 21 for Christ sake!.. its a little early in my opinion to get married and throw your dreams away kid..

[69cam1219]

The reason I'm double thinking my decision is because I'm afraid its not financialy wise. The girl friend is behind me 100%. She loves my car. She has brought up the marriage thing a few times but she was saying that b4 the car. I was just saying that because marriage and a house is another factor why I was double thinking myself.

[Ron.in.SoCal]

Back in 2001 I had a beautiful red 68 Camaro. Too many toys in the garage so my wife made me sell it. Then I got divorced. Moral of the story? I miss the car!

On a more serious note, this is the wrong site to ask how to prioritize your life and how you should spend vs save. Honestly, we don't know much about you, your true goals and what curve balls life may throw at you. Do what your heart tells you to and don't look back.

[SparkyRnD]

.. cause YOUR money is HER money at that point

There, I fixed that for you :-P

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

yeah.. i was trying to be nice about that one.^

but you illuminatied what i was really saying.. ahaha




The reason I'm double thinking my decision is because I'm afraid its not financialy wise. The girl friend is behind me 100%. She loves my car. She has brought up the marriage thing a few times but she was saying that b4 the car. I was just saying that because marriage and a house is another factor why I was double thinking myself.

trust me.. its a trick.. even if SHE thinks she loves your car..

and making a dream of yours happens while your young.. do you know how hard it is to make dreams happen when you are even a little bit older?

financially wise is whatever.. hell we dont even know how long the dollar is worth a dollar.. ahahha

[69cam1219]

Back in 2001 I had a beautiful red 68 Camaro. Too many toys in the garage so my wife made me sell it. Then I got divorced. Moral of the story? I miss the car!

On a more serious note, this is the wrong site to ask how to prioritize your life and how you should spend vs save. Honestly, we don't know much about you, your true goals and what curve balls life may throw at you. Do what your heart tells you to and don't look back. yea i know this ain't an advice forum, I guess just wanted to know I'm not making a bad decision. I know when I'm in the car on the track when its done I won't think twice about it. I'm just frugal with my money. My parents kinda pick on me about it but they are glad that I am.

[sittingonacouch]

Do it now or you could end up regretting it. You have your whole life to be married. You could end up like me with a new wife and a surprise baby 3 months after you're married. Have to trade in your truck for an SUV and put the project car on the back burner.

[Twentyover]

You're 21. Housing marked hasn't bottomed yet. Fed says they'll keep interest rates low for another couple years. IMO, 21 is waaay too young to do the marriage deal (I didn't get hitched until I was 33. May explain some of my ummm peculiarities.)

Think you can see where this is heading.

'nuff said

[ZFORCE]

Is this post really about the car??
I think your sublime is broadcasting, Short answer is, you said your keeping the car forever, she's going on six years...and is putting on the pressure, sounds like it's not about the car, don't think the girls "the one" 'nuf said

[Flash68]

sheeeeeeet.... you are:

young.
unmarried.
got your own job.
got your own money.
got your own time.
not a parent.
AND your parents TOLD YOU TO DO IT?!?!

wow.. if that aint a clear sign to do the damn thing..

cause its true youngin.. you wont be able to do jack when you are married.. cause YOUR money is OUR money at that point.

finish the damn car.. let her complain to a brick wall.. and enjoy your ride

but moreover..

NEVER SELL IT.. if you go hard now.. youll regret it.



BTW... tell your female to slow the fusk down.. your 21 for Christ sake!.. its a little early in my opinion to get married and throw your dreams away kid..

Vengeance speaks the truth!

[Snake Eater]

Keep the girl, get married, buy a house, also get a dog too....I'll buy the car.

Just kidding, build the car....life is too short and everybody wishes they had the opportunity to do their hobbies when it was easy.

[BigDawgDavao]

I gave up my car while in university due to financial reasons, not because of marriage. Promised myself I would get another one once I got a job. Well, job and life got in the way and now I'm 43 and just now putting together the car I always wanted. I lost out on 20 years of enjoyment driving a classic muscle car. That same car in another 20 years is probably going to cost minimum 50% more to do, more likely like 100% more.

Do it now. Don't worry, it's only the first few big purchases that hurt. After that and once you see the car coming along, it doesn't hurt so much. Definitely doesn't hurt as much as when I would see a 67 Camaro after I sold mine and say to no one in particular, "You know I used to have one of those. Man, do I miss that car!"

PS, your parents sound pretty cool. Listen to them.

[EFI69Cam]

Just playing devil's advocate here.

The money you make now is worth more than the money you make when you are older. If I had saved what I pissed away on cars at 21, I'd be completely debt free now at 41.

Match dollar for dollar what you spend on the car in a savings account for a down payment on a house. It might take longer to finish the car but you will not regret a thing.

[94BlownZ]

Talk your parents into letting her move in their house with you, work on building the car while putting money away for a home. Hell at this point I think the car is a better investment then a home!!!! I definitely recommend living with your girlfriend before marrying. This is how you have to build a car when your married.......buy a car part.....buy the wife a gift. Keeps them happy but the project always goes over budget. Your smart with your money it seems like, build it now how you want!

[69cam1219]

Just playing devil's advocate here.

The money you make now is worth more than the money you make when you are older. If I had saved what I pissed away on cars at 21, I'd be completely debt free now at 41.

Match dollar for dollar what you spend on the car in a savings account for a down payment on a house. It might take longer to finish the car but you will not regret a thing.

Yea kinda my thinking also but hey ya only live once

[Cobra 498]

Your parents are very wise, listen to them and build the car exactly as you want it. You are young and have a whole life time to do the other stuff. Sounds like the girl friend is trouble, there are lots of women who will embrace your hobby with you, dump this one and find a new one who shares your views. I worked for the SP as a brakeman when I was your age and spent everything I made on cars and do not regret it for a minute, also had a girl friend who wanted me to get a "respectable" job and get married, needless to say I didn't and she went on her way.

[BuddyP]

I can't tell you what to do but I didn't marry until I was 30. I can't imagine giving up what I had in my low 20's (we started dating at 26 and yeah things changed fast). At 21 there is no rush.

Secondly, whatever you think you can afford for a house, times that by .600 and use that for a house budget. If you still want to have some funds after buying a house, be sure to NOT overdo it. I can't say I'm dissappointed with my house decision but do wish I would've went a little less and not been strapped down as hard.... the car would've been done well before now if I would have.

[SLO_Z28]

Dont feel bad at all. Im 26 with a good job, I do have my own place (only runs about $800/mo for ALL living expenses), but I also spend most of my income on my car. Dont feel bad about doing this at all, you have the rest of your life to get married and buy a house!

[Zachalanche]

Build the car but don't go into debt doing it. I could say that I have wasted a ton of money on my project, but the reality is that my car was motivation for me to be sucessful enough to build it the way I wanted. and it has definitely weeded out a couple of bad GFs. (I had one that would ask me if I loved the car more than her to which my reply would always be: the car was her before you and it will be here after you). So, here I am half way through my project with absolutely no regrets, and at this point I figure I owe it to my car to finish it.

[srh3trinity]

Just playing devil's advocate here.

The money you make now is worth more than the money you make when you are older. If I had saved what I pissed away on cars at 21, I'd be completely debt free now at 41.

Match dollar for dollar what you spend on the car in a savings account for a down payment on a house. It might take longer to finish the car but you will not regret a thing.

I lean towards this. My life to this point has been an exercise in delayed gratification, and it started in my early twenties. I lived with my folks until I started Med school and saved. When I decided to buy a house, I was in much better shape than others my age. I buy parts for the car as I find the right deal on the right part. It is difficult to do, but this has allowed me to set up a much more stable present and future.

Now, if you go the other direction, do some heavy research and REALISTIC budgeting on the front end. Sure you can afford the subframe, the wheels and the motor, but can you do the work yourself? Are you going to have to write checks for labor? Do you know the true cost of an LS swap? Do you have enough in the bank if you go over budget? Do you have enough in the bank if an emergency happens or you lose your job? I wouldn't want to see you spend all your money on the big ticket items and the small stuff kill the dream.

[solarguy09]

Boy, Being a money manager, I could give you one point of view about compound interest, investments that will grow over time...

Worked so well , that at 52, I am done working , and I am debt free.

Or I could give you the story that I have owned my car since 1983, and life had a way of halting progress on the car.. So it sat..

Two near death ER visits, and I am working on number one of my Bucket List...Finish the car...Well , it is wicked now, and still more to do.

So, I have lived both sides.. Try to balance things.. I almost missed the chance by dying...But you must have funds in buckets , and you should save for them at the same time...A Car bucket, an emergency fund bucket, a girlfriend/Wife bucket..a Long term investing bucket...

At least you are thinking about it..

Oh and girlfriends fall by the waist side, but the car is still here..

The first wife didn't make it, and the second wife is a keeper.. She doesn't love my car, but she doesn't have to

[shmoov69]

Just playing devil's advocate here.

The money you make now is worth more than the money you make when you are older. If I had saved what I pissed away on cars at 21, I'd be completely debt free now at 41.

Match dollar for dollar what you spend on the car in a savings account for a down payment on a house. It might take longer to finish the car but you will not regret a thing.

Amen!! I'm a firm believer of that, now granted you could get hit by a Freightliner in ten years, but imagine the possibilities of no house payment at 30 years old!

Asking us if you should spend it on the car is like going to a tittie bar to ask about marriage and family advice!! LOL!! Of course we'll say the car!! We're all junkies!!! LOL!!

[Chris 68]

Man I can relate in many ways haha I'm 22 and have been with my girlfriend for 5 years. I get the marriage crap EVERYDAY lol and I tell her that when the time is right THEN we will get married (also she wants a VERY expensive ring). We just moved in 6 months ago and I got her a cat so that somewhat bought me some time lol I've been lucky to have alot of financial help on the first half of my build but since I've been paying for everything on the last half it has been progressing much slower. Nonetheless it's something I've always wanted to do and I'm going to do it right and hopefully I'll have the camaro done in the next couple months. If I wanted to I could have finished 6 months ago but it's a balancing act with finances and time. I'm currently a senior in college, in a fraternity, starting a business and prepping for med school; and since I'm only going to be 22 once I'm going to live up every minute while still putting money away and setting up my future.

It doesn't matter how much money you put into your car, if its something that you enjoy then its money well spent; just don't let your 40-year-old self look back with financial, relationship or "camaro" regrets. Also keep in mind that working on these cars is half the fun, so you don't necessarily have to go all out in the beginning. Save some of the really expensive upgrades for down the road, especially if you plan on keeping it for a while.

But hey, that's just me lol

[FlyDoc]

I would Talk to the girl, a heart to heart, tell her that you want to build the car that you want so you two can build good family memories together and then your children will even coven-dent the car, and continue the family memories with the car.

OK so you can tell that I have been married a few years, 25 this year. I had my Studebaker done when we met and got marred at 19, I would not change a thing, yes we have had our rough $$ times. but my wife never let me sell any of my guns or the Studebaker (even that it is in the barn in pieces in Nebraska, we live in Hawaii) she is letting build my '92 Camaro and telling my to build it the why I want to now! when we move back to the main land I will build the Stud the way I want it. I'm retired at 43 and not going to work again.

I guess what I'm saying, if she does not want you to build the car now, chances are she will never want you to build a car. you'll just have to make the decision on your own.

Build the CAR!!!!!, if she leaves because of it, you did not want her!, if she supports it, she may be the one. she may also just want a commitment, and be willing to have a long engagement. my daughter was pushing her boy friend to make it an official engagement. they have been together for 8 years or so, but the date is not tell jun of 13.

once again you have to find out what she wants. then make up your own decision.
Good Luck!

[LS1-IROC]

Invest that money then when your 50 you can build 10 69 camaro's the way you want. Build your life first before building a car.

[bret]

Allow me to respond as a person and a hotrodder...in that order.
I built several cars from 16 until I married at 32...went into debt for all of them. That is why I now know I don't like doing the debt part anymore. Money is for 3 things: 1. Food 2. Shelter 3. Entertainment. In that order. The car is entertainment pure and simple.
My wife [first, current, and only] had more cars and a bigger toolbox than I did when we got together. At this point her tastes have migrated to our children and quilting, but she encourages my car building, if not enthusiastically, at least more than tolerance. I point this out to illustrate how good things CAN be. It IS possible to be blessed with a wife who shares your taste with some level of enthusiasm. The importance of this is different for everyone.
Your process of asking for opinions is admirable. Take those opinions, decide what is relevant, and form your own according to the circumstances in front of you. Cars and girlfriends are both replaceable...some are just harder to replace than others.

It is encouraging to see people give thoughtful consideration to their actions. I see too many examples [at every age] of action taken with a minimum of thought and planning. This would apply to car building as well as life building.

Good luck!

[6D9 Matt]

Everyone is right, you are still VERY young to be worrying about marriange and/or a house. I was with my wife for almost 8 years before I married, and got married at age 27.

I agree on both sides in that you are young and not married, etc so you should enjoy it now before getting married and having kids and your priorities change drastically. You dont have those responsibilities right now and work very hard, so you should enjoy it.

However, at the same time that is a LOT of money you are about to poor into the car. I would agree with building it right the first time (as I am doing the same) but maybe do it more over time. Why rush and do all those things and almost have a complete car (we know that isnt true, but you get my drift)??? I would do most of the upgrades but maybe save a few of them for later down the road, even if it is a year or so. Take that extra money and invest it and save it. That way you are getting the best of both worlds... modding the car the way you want (for the most part) but also doing the smart choice financially.

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

moral of the story, everything in moderation..

dont wild out building the car too big for your pockets..
dont wild out being married before youve seen a few more summers..

take it slow.. build the car on a MODEST build..DRIVE THE CAR IF IT CAN DRIVE HOW IT IS and if you make some money along the way.. add to the car here and there.

[BulldawgMusclecars]

The reason I'm double thinking my decision is because I'm afraid its not financialy wise. The girl friend is behind me 100%. She loves my car. She has brought up the marriage thing a few times but she was saying that b4 the car. I was just saying that because marriage and a house is another factor why I was double thinking myself.

Ask any of the millions of American homeowners out there if buying a house was such a great investment for them...lets see, if all that equity lost in my own home due to declining value over the last several years had instead gone into cars, I would be driving my project cars right now!

[CornHusker4Life]

Invest your money and when you're 50 buy 10 69 camaros? Please tell how I can have that guarantee return on investment. Plain and Simple, Life is a Gamble. Stocks, Real Estate, Gold anything that is in the future is a gamble. Unless you can see the future and if so PLEASE CONTACT ME:) Just ask my parents who wanted to retire this year but their 401ks were cut in half. I will guarantee you that if you build the car you want the way you want it you will enjoy it. Just always save for the rainy days you will have. Another guarantee

[Mr.VENGEANCE]

i believe in the "I enjoy the fruits of my labor while they are still ripe" mantra..

[LS1-IROC]

Invest your money and when you're 50 buy 10 69 camaros? Please tell how I can have that guarantee return on investment. Plain and Simple, Life is a Gamble. Stocks, Real Estate, Gold anything that is in the future is a gamble. Unless you can see the future and if so PLEASE CONTACT ME:) Just ask my parents who wanted to retire this year but their 401ks were cut in half. I will guarantee you that if you build the car you want the way you want it you will enjoy it. Just always save for the rainy days you will have. Another guarantee

Read and learn... Compounding money is magical
http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=34700

[CornHusker4Life]

I understand compounding money. I invest with USAA monthly. The simple fact is that no one can GUARANTEE you a specific return(that is worth anything). I am not saying do not invest, because I do. The stock market is gambling and i enjoy it. Most people report average returns. Some have higher ROIs and some have lower ROIs. You can be low, average or high. That is all I am saying. No Guarantee. Either way, enjoy life! Not tryin to pi** anyone off just my opinion.

[muthstryker]

Savings? Whats that? I could die tomorrow on my way to work im not going to save everything I make and not spend it on SOMETHING fun. Tell your GF to slow her roll, maybe remind her you're only 21 and still want to experience more in life.

Build it right the first time.

PS once your married, Her money is her money, YOUR money is her money.

[solarguy09]

I can see some people getting upset with the investing and home owner ideas..

Well, that is their opinion.

Anyone who had any investments that were good one's and did not cut and run, are well back in the black again...Those that cut and ran in 2008. Lost bigtime.. what was cut in half is back and making money.. Some like me, never suffered the "lost " decade.

Some study Cars, and other things, i study monetary policy and investments. not all mine are winners, but the average all wins.

And the Housing Crash.....it kinda showed it's cards in 2006.. Do you really think that equity should go up 20K a month ???

Also if you never think of your Equity as money to use, you then focus on investments, and not cash from your Home..

so the fluctuation in value does not matter, unless you bought at the peak..

So , moderation is the key..but to listen to those that got burned, is a recipe for disaster down the road..

It also depends on your Income, health, so many things..

Do you want to work until your 65 ? Do you want to be retired early at 50, While you can still do things ?

But for sure do some youthful, time sensitive things while you are young..Building the car would be one to do now.

But do NOT ignore your future. it will be here sooner than you think..

Your money will work while you sleep. Dividends, reinvested.

Also don't get married yet, and buying an old school car will hold it's value ..

[solarguy09]

Read and learn... Compounding money is magical
http://www.lateral-g.net/forums/showthread.php4?t=34700

Excellent Job on linking the Investing 102 Thread...maybe some will learn and profit... Good Job..

.Mike V.

[LS7 Z/28]

Do what you want, not what others think you should do...

[EFI69Cam]

I can see some people getting upset with the investing and home owner ideas..

Do so at your own peril...

Anyone who had any investments that were good one's and did not cut and run, are well back in the black again...Those that cut and ran in 2008. Lost bigtime.. what was cut in half is back and making money..

And the Housing Crash.....it kinda showed it's cards in 2006..

So , moderation is the key..but to listen to those that got burned, is a recipe for disaster down the road..

It also depends on your Income, health, so many things..

Do you want to work until your 65 ? Do you want to be retired early While you can still do things ?

But for sure do some youthful, time sensitive things while you are young..Building the car would be one to do now.

But do NOT ignore your future. it will be here sooner than you think..

Your money will work while you sleep. Dividends, reinvested.

Half for the fun stuff, half for the future. I wish I'd done that.

Great discussion here!

[solarguy09]

Half for the fun stuff, half for the future. I wish I'd done that.

Great discussion here!

Also try to read the lateral G link...Very long, but worth the read..

[PSV]

I'm going to throw out an even different point of view. I have been building a car for the last five years. It is a complete rotisserie, every nut and bolt, build and to be honest I would never do it again. Sure its fun at times but a lot of the custom and aftermarket parts just don't fit and what you think will take a couple of hours ends up taking a couple of weeks. There are cars for sale now that can be bought for less than the cost of the parts on them. Unless you can do all of the labor like paint, body, interior, electrical, etc you are better off buying a finished sorted out car and just change a few things to personalize it to your taste. You will save money and enjoy the car now vs several years from now.

[85GPLEf41]

Great advice guys!, I wouldn't feel guilty one bit at all!... I got married at 19 and spent 10 years of my life doing the family thing which wasn't bad for the most part, except i never had the chance to build me a project car much less buy a new one that i actually wanted. I aqcuired my 85 Grand Prix early in my relationship with my ex and could never find the time much less the money to do anything to it which sometimes she didn't get that i liked to work on it....PROBLEMS!! After i seperated and divorced it actually sat for a few more years till i finally said it was time to get started one it, However now i have a house and whatever is associated with it & and i have my current GF who really doesn't mind me working in the garage it's starting to come together.. I'm glad i didn't get rid of it like "somebody" once kept nagging me to do though i did pass on a few rides i am kicking myself for not stepping up and getting them regardless of what she said!! IF your GF loves you, live life first as a young couple then get settled down. Keep the ride build it to what you want and everything else will fall into place. You sound like a smart kid keep doing what you're doing. GOOD JOB!

[solarguy09]

Never feel guilty...

We are just trying to give you suggestions...

Also the girlfriend has other ideas because she is a young woman...Not a fault or a problem, but just something to consider...

Some will want a go getter that succeeds, and some will want to have a stallion when they meet, but then they want to put your nutts in a jar..

They want both worlds.. So do for yourself with no regrets.. But just try to do both , save and do your car....Sounds impossible, i know...

[SLO_Z28]

One thing to remember, is he has a job that has a pension, so like me he doesn't really need to have a 401K. When I retire I will actually make about 135% of my salary at retirement, with cost of living adjustments.

[LS1-IROC]

Excellent Job on linking the Investing 102 Thread...maybe some will learn and profit... Good Job..

.Mike V.

Haha...just trying to spread the knowledge, maybe others can see the light and benefit from it too.

[solarguy09]

Haha...just trying to spread the knowledge, maybe others can see the light and benefit from it too.

Some will listen and do well...Some won't listen..

[tazzz25906112]

Hey we're all different and at 21 you both need to give your head a shake thinking about marriage in today's world,,, but hey that is just my opinion...

That said you'll know what feels right when you cross that path and I'd say finish what you started for sure as it relates to the car (as it'll likely bring more if you decide to sell) and you may also look to see how she reacts.... Does she have the maturity to work through all this and have patience,,, or is she gonna be hard to deal with over time??? You have to know that her actions will be mirrored in life and if she gets you nervous know,,, look out later (this coming from 26+ successful years of marriage advise)... I sure she is a champ,,,, but hey you're both young take your time cause the start can be rough and it goes on for what seems like an eternity after all this freedom of youth...

[Simmo]

IMO a 69 Camaro is never going to go out of fashion, but the mod's you do to it today will. Especially if it takes a long time to build...note the amount of incompleted projects for sale around the place. Keep the car as it is, enjoy it and go read the investing102 thread on LatG and you'll get the idea. Delayed gratification is a wonderful thing!

Certainly live while you're at it, but put a significant proportion of you're dough into income generating asset's as well. I'm in my late 20's and came damn close to dying last year in a motorcycle accident. It's all fair and good to say "I might get hit by a Freightliner tomorrow" yeah sure you might, but what if you dont die!? Who and what's paying the bills now? If you know how to make your money make money you'll be a lot better off.

Only you know the answer about your girl though...good luck with that! :)

[gEtyOpAPiOn]

spending rules of engagement:
*kids
*cars
*football
*miscellaneous
*other things i can't think of...
*and then your significant other lol

[solarguy09]

IMO a 69 Camaro is never going to go out of fashion, but the mod's you do to it today will. Especially if it takes a long time to build...note the amount of incompleted projects for sale around the place. Keep the car as it is, enjoy it and go read the investing102 thread on LatG and you'll get the idea. Delayed gratification is a wonderful thing!

Certainly live while you're at it, but put a significant proportion of you're dough into income generating asset's as well. I'm in my late 20's and came damn close to dying last year in a motorcycle accident. It's all fair and good to say "I might get hit by a Freightliner tomorrow" yeah sure you might, but what if you dont die!? Who and what's paying the bills now? If you know how to make your money make money you'll be a lot better off.

Only you know the answer about your girl though...good luck with that! :)

Balance is the Key... I am glad you are still alive from the motorcycle accident..

I too almost died twice almost two years due to MAJOR Heart and Brain malfunctions.

But at 51, did i cash out all my wealth and start spending it ??? NO, No Ferrari for cash, or a New ZR-1 Cash, or both, with more left over...

NO, I continued on my plan that I am going to live and enjoy myself.. So by planning early, i am retired and starting the Bucket List with my Wife..

I continue to be debt free, except a small mortgage...Some will take what they have and leverage it for 10 times the assets that they do not OWN. Scary scenario if you live...


So, Living today and planning for the future are a balance... What ? I am working on it...

But one is I got out of the rat race because of years of planning, two i am protouring the heck out of my car I owned for 30 years, and travel is next..

I got my wake up calls, attorney and priest at the bedside..

So Now I live for today, but my investments still have me safe for a projected 85 years old....Just in case..

LateralG Investing 102 Thread...Because there will be a test....Everyday

[solarguy09]

spending rules of engagement...IMHO option two..

1. God/Faith of whatever you choose...Nothing is a choice.. Faith in yourself is a choice too..

2. Money..Because if you cannot control your money , it will control you...Also why do you want the money? BIG question. For toys and stuff ? OH NO. Financial Security and Peace of Mind in all economic storms..Tech, Housing, whatever bubbles, and Bush, Obama, Or Barney the Dinosaur, it won't matter, you will control your Life.

3. Family and the Joys it brings...

4. Hobbies, with or without the family..Cars, ect..

5. Charity and giving back..Whether my time, my knowledge, my donations.

6. Ride this puppy of life to the end..

[Hunter68]

i am almost in the same boat, im only 20 working 8.50 an hour and first pay check went a little crazy with what i want. my parents are the same way and my gf supports me as well. But this is our life, do what you want and if the gf supports you and your car if you get married the car will slow down because of other bills but whos to say that your new joined bank account wont help build it? just make sure she is the one and wont take you for everything if something happens...

[Matt@BOS]

As someone only a few years older, I'm just going to say, Albert seems to remember things pretty well. Enjoy life for what it is right now. If you have the opportunity to build this car, while still feeling like you aren't upsetting your financial situation, by all means go ahead and build the car. You're probably not going to have time later. I was fortunate enough to build a pro touring Camaro, and I don't regret it for a second. Between the people I've met, and experiences I've gained, it has been well worth the money. In fact, you can't put a price on it. I know it is near impossible to not worry about a budget, but try to be realistic about what you want, what you need, and what you would regret if you didn't do. Building cars is just a function of time and money.

As for the girl. I think I can relate to you to a certain extent. When you're young, everything seems really immediate. Often, you don't realize you've got plenty of time. At least wait until you are actually "grown up." From a psychological stand point, people brain's don't stop developing until their mid 20s. Trust me when I say that all of this pressure that you feel, or that your girlfriend feels will subside a little over time. Just don't ignore her for the car, which I doubt you'll do. She seems pretty special to you, and if you're still together a few years from now, she will just be that much more special.

Matt

[CornHusker4Life]

Solar Guy "...economic storms..Tech, Housing, whatever bubbles, and Bush, Obama, Or Barney the Dinosaur, it won't matter, you will control your Life."

Could not say it any better. Sh*t happens!

[solarguy09]

Solar Guy "...economic storms..Tech, Housing, whatever bubbles, and Bush, Obama, Or Barney the Dinosaur, it won't matter, you will control your Life."

Could not say it any better. Sh*t happens!

Thanks... I try my best to do ALL the BASIC fundamentals, over, and over again... Success leaves clues..

But I do know that Health and Health care are my BIGGEST variable...One I do my best for by having been conservative and planned well ahead.

Not saying it will work, i am no Genius, but I have a better shot at weathering most storms..

[68GTOSCA]

Gentlemen:

The principle problem here is that this man is talking about getting married at 21. No man should get married at 21, maybe 30 or 35. If your girl friend is not still around she may not be a keeper at 30. It hard to believe but their are more than one girl for each of us. Plus, a girl that does not allow you to follow your dreams may be more problem then she is worth. She should want you to enjoy your car. That my 2 cents

[brownz]

Just do what Im doing. spend the money and make her wait. But tell her the reason. If she doesnt like it then she is not the one for you. Im 27 and told My GF that she will not see a ring until she sees me drive my car. She is ok with it

[Vegas69]

Dude, you are 21 years old. First of all, don't get married YET. Second, you think you're rich, your not. I love my DSE parts but you can have one hell of a car for a lot less money. A stock sub will get you a long ways. I'd mod the car reasonably and give the relationship some time. Things will find their place.

[MonzaRacer]

WHOA WHOA WHOA. Now I see a lot of people who talk about 21 not being the age t o get married, its BS. Ill be honest. If I had gotten married back when I first met a great girl who LOVED my cars Id be in much different place.
Now at 44 I am still single,, no good prospects, a daughter I cant even call my own because of her mother. And I am here thinking do I risk $500 or more dollars starting a shop as finding a new job is taking too long.
Take this from a person who has lived on a shoe string budget on half a shoe string,,,with frayed ends.
First of all, if you are religious, such as being a Christian, follow the rule, 10% tithe, if not for basic karma donate 10% to a good charity. you can feel good about doing some good for less fortunate.
Now let me set up a basic idea. Living at home gives you a BIG plus. I did it while NOT having a good job and having to do ALL my cars on budget/with others throw away parts.
Now lets plan for both future AND a great car and great future.
Look around, find a reasonably priced apartment for a couple,,with room for a child down road,,,,now take that price per month in one column. All of the utilities/food/etc you can think of take those into account too.
Now add those together, add some extra, and maybe add a little more. now multiply that by 12 months, SET THIS AS A TARGET.

I am now going to use some things from Dave Ramsey and his Financial Peace Plan.
Save $1000 as emergency fund,,,in bank, never touch it, THEN another $1000 emergency fund in bank FOR car issues,,never touch it this is for AFTER its built.
Now that first amount you figured up start saving for at least 6 to 12 months of emergency funds, my choice would be 12 months. you can adjust for a big part, or going on vacation, or engagement ring what ever.
BUT plan in YOUR head for a car , a future and a life.
IF you are serious about your GF, then THINK serious,, just dont be in big hurry yet. Have a plan for your car, let her know you are planning AND saving for a future. Also let her know you want to have your car done, call it a milestone and actually try to set some goals by which you can focus on goals down the road.
My idea and $0.02 worth from a guy whos isnt working and IS broke and alone:

If your girl is serious, talk seriously, let her know your not just blowing her off. DO take time for the US time, dont let her push the US married time too fast. Set realistic goals for future of you both,,,but let her know nicely that your car IS in your future also.

So:
Emergency fund #1 $1000
emergency fund #2 $1000

Both dont touch at all.
Then lets say you would need $800 to $1000 a month to live in an apartment.
SO if you put at least $4800/$6000 to $9600/$12000 in an emergency fund in bank, not touching it.
Now all the while you can spend whats left, or AT LEAST plan for these amounts BEFORE you ever think about marrying,,,or even moving out.
Yeah it slows down a build, and if you even take say two years, living at home, making good solid plans on life after getting married, all the while building your car on a budget AND if you have big items to buy SAVE FOR THEM,,dont steal from other columns. Set limits each month to spend and set basic goals and be flexible,, if you need two more pay checks and your at 6 month plan in your car plan ,, keep track of how far behind you are,, set goals to get caught up.
Saving the money wont hurt,, you dont even have to let her know your plans are to have some cash in bank to get started, you do this, take proper amount of time and agree to set a distant date like at 23 or 25 for a real world date, also you guys can plan and save for wedding extras.
Too many people want to plan a wedding and have it in 3 to 6 months or less or lay it off on brides parents.
Another question is she in school, if so , get her graduated, and get a handle on loan payments or paid off possibly.
And if she has no career remember she should have something to fall back on if anything happens to you.
And like others there are lots of parts that take place of very expensive parts.
ALSO have a plan on your car fairly fleshed out.
Like Riedtech tru turn lets you run wide wheels, their coil overs will out perform a lot of other parts and cost less. a quality built steering box by Lee gives you better steering, shopping on Ebay and Kore3 brackets can get you larger brakes for reasonable price (I know I have done math compared to similar in bigger name brands and fixing adapted stock parts are much easier to replace on road).
Well built honest approach to your care with a true plan, basic price ideas and allowances for overages.
Getting BOTH plans for life and car are what growing up is about. You have one piece in hand,, good job, another piece what sounds like a decent woman, reasonable parents who are ok with you living a little.
Dont get me wrong, having fun is good but you need to plan for car AND future.
OH and go take Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University. LEARN where wealth and debt come from. And by listening to the people who help people FIX the EFF UPS of people,, maybe you can stay away from it.
And that 6 to 12 month emergency fund will set you up for some part of a down payment,,especially if your thinking about a house.
ALSO while doing all this keep your ears and eyes open, you may find local place up for tax sale, ideal for future at a great price and bea ble to either GET a dream home cheap or be able to flip it for more money ie making profit if you can sell it.
USE what you have including some intelligence. And use common sense. And if the GF gets in a rush let her know your not completely focused on just the car,,that you ARE planning for a future with her.
One plan would be to have car done and have it as your get away car for wedding. I know my nieces husband set their wedding with his car having its fix ups finished,, bad thing is they sold it to buy a house. By working a good job and already having a plan you would not have to sell car unless in dire straights.
Oh and a prenup on the car and specific assets MIGHT be a thought to wise car owner.
Just some ideas from a guy who isnt in good straights giving some ideas so you dont go off with out an idea.
Good luck and as far as a car it can always be replaced with another, its just a car. BUT do live life a little, with a good woman it can be better. She sounds like a reasonable one, if she is serious she will plan for long term happiness yours and both of you with you.
So for what its worth,,,there is $0.02. About all I could afford right now.

[67restomod]

. If I had gotten barried back when I first met a great girl who LOVED my cars Id be in much different place.


Freudian slip? ;)

Seriously though, most women will not let a car come before them. Build the car and enjoy it while you're young. Also, I might add, any woman who belittles your interests in favor of her own is starting out on a bad note. Marriage is about celebrating each other's common interests and respecting your differences. I'm sure she would completely justify having 75 pairs of shoes in the closet and belittle your hotrod in the same sentence.

[minendrews68]

Well, you know the girl is probably feeling a bit threatened by the car. (yes it happens). You obviously love her or she wouldn't still be around. You've got to find a way to keep both. She needs to know how much this means to you. Girls are like that, and yes everyone on here has spoken the truth. Before kids, I had just about what I wanted, after kids well...................Don't get me wrong I love my kids and am not sorry for my decisions. Just wish my Camaro was finished....

Carl

[MonzaRacer]

Freudian slip? ;)

Seriously though, most women will not let a car come before them. Build the car and enjoy it while you're young. Also, I might add, any woman who belittles your interests in favor of her own is starting out on a bad note. Marriage is about celebrating each other's common interests and respecting your differences. I'm sure she would completely justify having 75 pairs of shoes in the closet and belittle your hotrod in the same sentence.

nah just cold fingers and no typing skills.
Oh and why should a car come before a woman? Your saying that a car is better than human companionship? A car is just "stuff" nothing more. And if you think a car is more than that I would wonder just who hurt you so bad. Besides from my point of view my priorities are God, wife(when I find good one), kids, life/home/etc, THEN cars and fun.
Put an inanimate object before any of those and its going to be a very limited life. Oh and one night stands and short series of dating interludes is just plain foolish.

Again it sounds like she is ok with him and his car as long as she gets some attention.
Point I was trying to make is be putting cash back for OTHER things, while the biggest part of his income isnt being used. If he take say two years to build a car, AND plan a great life/wedding/family and saves a good chunk and spends rest on car and living,, since he doesnt need to pay rent or big bills right now. Then lets saw he can save $1000 a month for 2 yrs, thats 10% of a $240k house loan or 20% on $120k house. AND if at the end of couple of years of planning she has walked away he has a big chunk to save or use for something else.
Basically if he can save 6 months to a year or more of basic monthly expenses(living reasonably but not spartan) and keeps at least 6 mo(say if he saved for 2 yrs while spending rest on car) then if anything would happen he would have a good base to start with, emergency fund if say mom and dads house burnt God forbid, or medical issues.
Plan smart, I would assume working railroad he is making decent cash (around here about minimum is $40k to $50k a year plus benefits) So if he even saved $1000 month I doubt it would crimp his style THAT much. kind of like $1 for car, $1 for future, $1 for living.
and if she gets all bent out of shape and unreasonable he will have nice pile to work with if she isnt patient.
IF he is showing her he is planning for a future AND having fun with his car, most women are encouraged by this.
As for waiting to marry till after 30,,,,pass. for me that was 14 yrs ago. you know how hard it is to put off having a family, I passed on lots of stuff in my life. Now I am really passing on more.
I see how happy my buddy is and he has been married for like 7 or so and has had to reeducate as his previous career went away. He now is starting a computer shop, and thinking of using it as second job and getting an IT job at a Hospital.
I am 44, IF I got married right now and had a kid, I would be 50 by time he or she is in kindergarten. And ready to retire while they are in college.
Let me tell you when I get propositioned by 50 yr old crones that are ready to retire, its VERY disheartening. Life isnt fun alone. Regardless of what the people who have been kicked in the teeth are saying, single sucks.
And sure isnt any easier to find a good partner as you get older.
I want kids, wife, home,,got home, soon to get my new furniture moved in , yeah waited 10 yrs for good furniture, built, sold, wrecked and retired too many projects for wrong reasons.
God only knows what the end result of my life will be but I sure hope a decent wife and at least one good car will be left behind and hopefully some more kids.
And so what if a woman has 75 pairs of shoes, as long as she wears them, if she wears 3 pair and never touched the rest then I would be having some words.

[Zspoiler]

It your money ,and your life . Building cars isn`t cheap. Because once you get married and or move in with your girlfriend. Because of money for a house,and or possible kids.Then she would want to control the purse strings. So have your fun NOW!

[NYTRANSAM]

Your young now, Build the car. If your serious about the girlfriend let her know what the deal is and plan for your future. Let her know she is the one but you are not ready yet. I was able to build one car while dating my now wife, I Got married, purchased a house, then purchased a second classic car which I intend on keeping for my daughter who is now 3 yrs old. Im currently building a third car. We both work full time and I recently went back to school for my Masters degree at age 35. The point is your only 21. These are the best years of your life ,enjoy them and do what you want. and DON'T SELL THE CAR, you won't be able to get it back and you will regret it. I was able to get thru some milestones and keep the cars. My wife hates the cars but she understands my passion. If your girlfriend loves you, she will understand your passion too. Theres a lot worse things you can waste your money on than a car, at least that has value.

[Jetfixr320]

One thing to remember, is he has a job that has a pension, so like me he doesn't really need to have a 401K. When I retire I will actually make about 135% of my salary at retirement, with cost of living adjustments.

I wouldn't advise anyone to count on a Company pension these days, as there are many many people in this country who have lost their pensions over the last 10 years. I would venture to say Aviation was the hardest hit. Several Major airlines dumped pensions on the PBGC.

So, yeah I would advise to start your own 401K. And when you retire and you still have a pension, then Great you will have a Company Pension and your own 401K.

I agree about not getting married at 21 years old though, been there done that and divorced at 30. Lost almost everything except my car. Only reason she didn't take it was because it still looked like crap and was in peices.

I've told my son who is 19 now, get through school and get his career started 1st. Save for a home/land and toys. Even live with me for as long as he needs, before getting married. Plenty of time for that.

I would build your car and save for a home since you can stay with your parents. Wish I had that option. LOL!

GoodLuck with whatever you decide.

[solarguy09]

WOW.... Some great opinions here guys....

Lee Abel.....A lot more than .02 worth....I should have paid a dollar for that advise.

Boy, as a Debt Free guy, i must say that taking care of your financial situation now, and for your future, is Numero uno...

Many things will come from this.. First you get more independence and control of your life... I never ever bought dave ramsey's stuff, so it cost me ZERO to follow his great plan.. I just listened and acted on it.. I am on the last step... The Charity part....

IF you do have the girl for life, is she going to dig a Man who can control and handle himself in this Economic Crisis that will be here for years ? I know my Wife thinks I am very cool for understanding the big world of money.. So we are safe...Health is the only variable...

My Dad was a marriaige counselor for decades...Know what the number one reason for counseling???? Money problems...God as my witness..

So, in this world where you are basically on your own, no government aid, ect.., wouldn't you want to be the smartest guy with Finances ?

I know you will find out quickly if this Girl can hang with that, or does she need the flash now...

Very Hard to save for later, but if you want statistics, I could blow your mind with what can be done with money if invested and compounded...

Yes, I too am religious and I understand the camel and the Needle... There are also many quotes of independence and security from working and saving.

It is not what you make, it is what you keep, and then what you do with it.. Good Luck.

[Twentyover]

Many posts ago I said 21 was too young for marriage. Think I should explain myself some so our buddy 1219 understands where I'm coming from, not just some old quasi-deranged guy. May be that, but it doesn't drive my opinion on marriage.

Think about how your life and goals have progressed-you're not the same guy now as you were when you were at 11, and you're not the same at 11 as you were at 5. We all change and progress as we move through life. The rate of change, in general, slows as we get older. I was alot closer to what I was at 40 when I was 30 than I was close to 30 when I was 20 (sorry, couldn't figure out a better way to phrase this.) So bottom line is you (and your GF) are going to be changing alot in the next 10 years or so, at a slower rate than the last 10, but faster then the following 10. I can list on both hands the number of friends that got married in college because they were perfect for each other, and are now no longer together. Some were very messy, some less so, and one ended up with knife scars after a long hospital stay.

When you get as old and ugly as I am, you'll hear the phrase 'starter wife' used fairly often. The girl was perfect for you, except she changed. Well, you changed too,and you grew apart. If the girl is willing to wait (you're 6 years in already),you can be her pot of gold at the end of the rainbow (and she yours). If not, you may avoid an unpleasant situation.

If you do bite and get married, as much as in general I'm not in favor of pre-nups (they are, after all, end of marriage contracts), first divorces tend to be pretty acrimonious. More about hurting the other party than fair distribution of assets. Write one that includes the Camaro, take it out of the equation. Don't need to load it with a bunch of little stuff, just the big stuff you bring into the marriage

[SLO_Z28]

I wouldn't advise anyone to count on a Company pension these days, as there are many many people in this country who have lost their pensions over the last 10 years. I would venture to say Aviation was the hardest hit. Several Major airlines dumped pensions on the PBGC.

So, yeah I would advise to start your own 401K. And when you retire and you still have a pension, then Great you will have a Company Pension and your own 401K.



I have a government pension, and the company he works for is going to be doing very well in the next 30 years, and has received hundreds of billions in investment in the last 2 years. I get 2.5% of my salary per year work at 62 years old, which works out to 90% of my salary(38 years worked at 2.438%), plus I get social security. His pension is very similar, and the Railroad Retirement Board is in a VERY good position. I know this because I was trying to get a railroad job when I found my job :)

[solarguy09]

I gotta Say, there are more than a few people that have bought or built cars, only to have some misfortune come their way..

Then , when you don't have the emergency funds we are talking about, cars and parts get sold at a loss, if they can be sold at all..

Houses are foreclosed.. So something to think about...I do not want to be house poor, or car poor, because i spent too much on one , or the other...

[Flash68]

Oh and one night stands and short series of dating interludes is just plain foolish.

Maybe, but it sure was a blast while it lasted for that decade or so... LOL


plus I get social security.

You'd be foolish to count on that.... not saying it isn't possible, but at your age I'd be planning on it NOT being there.... I am in my mid 30's and I am planning for it to not pay me a penny. Anything more than a penny is a nice bonus.

[DRJDVM's '69]

You are 21 years old...theres plenty of time to get married and buy a house.

Build the car now...but dont be stupid and spend gobs of $$. Budget yourself and save at the same time. If you budget yourself, you will have some disposable income to build the car and save at the same time... get married and buy a house= no disposbale income for quite awhile...

[Simmo]

Maybe, but it sure was a blast while it lasted for that decade or so... LOL

I called it "running the gauntlet" LOL...too true though!

I'm surprised anyone on the planet is banking on any pension at all. My generation will be dry by the the time the Baby Boomers are done...the old Kiyosaki quote "mind your own business" comes to mind.

[solarguy09]

I called it "running the gauntlet" LOL...too true though!

I'm surprised anyone on the planet is banking on any pension at all. My generation will be dry by the the time the Baby Boomers are done...the old Kiyosaki quote "mind your own business" comes to mind.

They will do so, at their loss...What ever is in contract now, can always change....I rely on no government pr any other people for my income...

Austerity is coming to America....One way or the other...And Social Security, and Pensions are on the block to be chopped

[ModernMuseum]

Gentlemen:

The principle problem here is that this man is talking about getting married at 21. No man should get married at 21, maybe 30 or 35. If your girl friend is not still around she may not be a keeper at 30. It hard to believe but their are more than one girl for each of us. Plus, a girl that does not allow you to follow your dreams may be more problem then she is worth. She should want you to enjoy your car. That my 2 cents

Didn't read the thread, but pretty much this. Getting married that young is just...too damn young! When I was your age, I thought that was what I wanted. Now I'm 29 and all I want to do is slay poon. And that is pretty much what I'm doing. I'm happy enough I guess and I have plenty of toys to keep me entertained when I don't have a woman around to try and run my life (streetfighter bike, pro touring LS3/T56 firebird, ATV, 4-wheel drive truck, Stage II WRX, my own house, 65" plasma with an Energy surround....ok, now I'm just bragging).

On a slightly more educated note and more to the point of this thread, a woman that really loves you will support your hobbies. Don't settle for less. Enough said.

[ModernMuseum]

Speaking of slay-age....just received this email from an old flame...



Are you free for a dinner tonight ? Or i will drop by your house sometime tonight. I just wanna get a couple things.


Cindy


Valentine's day, anyone? Man, my life is tough. :nopity:

[shmoov69]

Sorry guys, but different strokes for different folks. Had I NOT gotten married at 20, I would probably be a sorry ass mess of a person without any real happiness by now. Much less the huge amounts of trouble I would have been in!! MUCH MUCH cheaper for me to get married young.

Oh, and I DO have an awesome woman that loves cars and has made my hobby hers also. Heck, she buggs me to go to the dragstrip and to car shows!!

[MonzaRacer]

OK again I am not saying get married right now, what I AM saying, at 21 you have what seems a great lady in your life, parents who understand your working good and making money and you have some plans.
What I really want to stress, is this, make plans for emergency, for future and take some time to get built up for that, since you dont have big expenses, you can save for a future emergency,house, dd car, marriage, etc.
GET those emergency funds in place, get your plan for the car in place,,,AND get your future in place with the future Mrs. Car Guy.
As for the guy who says he is happy ,free and "slaying poon",,,well in this day and age,,,some one needs to grow up.
Notches in bed post and 2700 toys, may make you happily ignore LIFE, till it passes you by.
Sounds like you have a great gf/fiance' so dont let her get away if she doesnt mind cars and a dating a car guy.
There are NOT a lot of car savvy/non competitive women around. You find one, use some common sense and brains and you will grow old with her and pass your toys down to your grandchildren.
I have made my mistakes,, including the chasing of many women,,,let a few great ladies away. Now its much harder to try and find a lady who wants an older guy, who likes cars and wants kids.
Just because you can have a different lady every night, does not make a guy truly happy, regardless.
Case in point, even on singles sites I put in I want to have kids, I am a car guy and such,,,I still get 50-55 yr old grannies who dont want kids or to be around cars and really want retirement friends,, or it seems.
Dont get me wrong I KNOW I will probably never land a 25 yr old trophy wife with millions, but come on I sure am not over the hill yet.
Set your self up to succeed, then try to fail.
I laid out many good ideas and wish I had a way to go back and do some of them.
Now I am broke, looking for a job or place to start a shop and still alone.
IT sucks.
Got two projects and I wont get to put a dime of my taxes into them like I thought.
Plan, save, plan, save, prepare then go on.
Now honestly, I really have no want of women that hangs around a bar/club looking for a guy who hooks up every night with a different guy. Way too dangerous in these times.

[barraza]

The ability to delay gratification is a good marker of successful people

Don't take this wrong, but at 21 and living with your parents, you have no idea what you don't know. None of us did. Until you have your own roof over your head, and are working with your own tools, you have no business spending the cash it takes to build a top end PT car.

As also pointed out in this thread, if you think any retirement system (other than saving it yourself) will be solvent enough to pay you in 30+ years, you will be sorely disappointed.

I grew up in a comfortable suburbia type environment. My dad had a good job, but always had the desire to go out on his own. He was never in a position financially to do so and it bothered him. I decided that I wanted to be able to take advantage of a good opportunity if it came. Getting a good job and living within my means enabled me to eventually be able to tell my boss to shove it, and go into business for myself. Best thing I ever did. I have a successful company, and a very happy family.

Not to say you cant have fun with cars in the meantime. I autocrossed my Camaro 30 years ago, and spent a while road racing an open wheel car in the SCCA. But back in the 80's, my budget for an entire FF season was less than a DSE subframe. Just remember everything has tradeoffs, a 75k PT build at 21 years old may come back to bite you. Another thing to keep in mind, you don't have to have the latest widgets to have fun with these old cars. Most places you will ever compete, the differences in finishing position can be attributed more to driver ability than the best parts.

As for getting married, that is your call alone. I know I would have had at least one ex wife if I had gotten married in my 20's. Don't rush into anything.

[ord27]

I haven't read the entire thread, so I apologize if someone has already said this....

but

I chuckled to myself a bit when (in the opening post) I read that your reasoning was to do it the way that you want to now, so that you won't be spending money changing things on it later.

YOU WILL ALWAYS BE SPENDING MONEY ON IT AND "TWEAKING" IT

sorry for yelling, but cars and other expensive hobbies are perpetual. We are in this hobby because we like to tinker.

I'm not saying you should or you shouldn't. Just don't fool yourself

[DButler]

Ok here goes. I am 25 years old and i was fortunate to get my car when I was 15 for me and my dad to build. We did a nice restoration, but not with all the fancy goodies. My parents put a good amount in the car, but so did I. I took all the money i made while working after school and during summer and put in the car. I then slowly upgraded car to what is is today. it is not what some of the cars here are, but it is a fairly nice car. I bought a house when I was 20 years old. I worked fll time and attended college. I am about to graduate college in May. I am married and now have a kid on the way. My wife doesn't complain or bitch when I spend on the car. She just wants me to make good decisions. I am like you I worry about money all the time. I have a decent emergency saving as well as an account I spend from. I also put money back for retirement. My advice to you is do the car the way you want, but you don't have to do it all at once. Do the major things that you will not want to go back and change such as suspension, but if you have to sacrifice an LS1 for a sbc to start with do that or wait longer to get LS1. I do not regret buying my house at 20. I am way ahead of lots of people I went to school with. My parents are not rich but hard work and dedication pays off. If I would have got married at 21 I would have married the wrong person. I waited and have a wonderful wife and a baby girl on the way. We have a nice house two nice cars, and I have my 67 Camaro. My whole point is to spread it out. Don't blow all your money on the car, but also not spend on it either. You seem like a smart guy and know what to do.

[boynton6spd]

When I was married to my 1st wife, she just graduated nursing school. She needed reliable transportation and I, I....sold my 69 RS/SS 396 Camaro to buy her a Pontiac Grand Am....Which makes me the biggest Idiot in AMERICA....notice I said "when I was married to my 1st wife..."
Build the car the way you have DREAMED to build it. Put your foot down to the gf, that your hobbies are important and this is the way it has to be...DON'T EVER SELL THAT CAR!

[406 Q-ship]

I will say this, at the age of 21 (I am assuming she is approximatily the same) that neither one should be thinking marriage yet. Trust me when I say that you/her will change your views a bit between now and about the age of 25. There is a more maturing to do for both of you, and that is not to say either one of you are immature just that there is more maturing to do.

I believe that you should do a reasonable build on your Camaro, while saving some money for the future. Whether that future includes marriage, buying a house, or children.

[rfalker1]

I bet you have heard everything, so at 26 I will just say good luck on your decision!! Life comes at u fast, you only live once too!!!

[DenRS]

I don't think the OP is ready to do either honestly. The fact that he is asking if he should feel guilty about spending that much coin on his camaro is clearly asking for justification for a decision that he knows isn't the best choice. Your priorities should be to focus on your future and work on your car within a budget. And whatever budget you set aside, double it. You need to ask yourself is buying that dse front clip really worth living with your parents and losing someone you love in the process? There is no reason you can't do both, just don't go overboard with either. Don't rush to get married and def don't rush to finish the car which is never really done anyway. You won't be happy if you rush either decision.

Ps Once you get married, its half her car anyway.

[brownz]

Ps Once you get married, its half her car anyway.[/QUOTE]

Not if you put it in your dads name like I did LOL.

The only reason its in my dads name is because I got the car when I was 15 and he insured it for me. But its fun telling my gf shes the reason why.

[Tony_SS]

Allow me to shatter a few MYTHS going on in this thread:

Myth 1. Your money is HER money after marriage!
Truth: This could be a problem only if you don't know your girlfriend very well. Newsflash, girls just don't get spend happy after they get married! If you are worried about her depleting all the funds, don't marry one that is a materialistic shopaholic, or has expensive taste.

Myth 2. If you don't build it now, it'll never get done!
Truth: If you live within your means, you can easily marry the right girl, buy a house, raise a family and build a project. It's called moderation and priority. Also note, when is a car ever 'done'? You'll spend money on it the rest of your life.

Myth 3. If you marry young you'll get a divorce, she'll take the money and you'll have to sell your car!
Truth: See #1.

So here is my advice IF you think your girlfriend is the marriage material:

1. Propose to her. Give her a ring but do not set a date or make any plans. Be clear about that!
2. Live with your girlfriend for no less than 1 year before you get married.
3. Be honest with her about the plans for your car.
4. Give her the things she wants, they do matter and go a long way.
5. Life is long, plan accordingly, live and build within your means, don't go into debt.

Summary:
A good girl wants a commitment, they want a return on their investment, just like we want to count on our cars to perform and be reliable after all we've invested into them. We are so careful when we buy our cars and pick out parts. The same diligence should be applied when getting married. Marry the wrong girl and you won't be able to enjoy or build your car, or will just loose/have to sell it in a divorce anyway. But If do marry the right one, you can have the best of both, and wont have to worry about 'hurrying up and building a car'.

[jnord]

Hell Kid I'm 51 and I'm just know building the car your thinking of...Beleave me I

[jnord]

Hell Kid I'm 51 and I'm just know building the car your thinking of...I have 100k in my car if... spend it now cause the money (inflation) and the opposition (chickie) will only get harder as you get older... Have fun!!!

[looter]

been together 6 years and you're 21?
man, you gotta get out and live a little....I don't even care about the car issue, I'm looking out for your personal wellbeing.
you need to nail several randoms on an ongoing regular basis for a while to gain some perspective of what's great and not so great about long term relationships.

[El Numero1]

been together 6 years and you're 21?
man, you gotta get out and live a little....I don't even care about the car issue, I'm looking out for your personal wellbeing.
you need to nail several randoms on an ongoing regular basis for a while to gain some perspective of what's great and not so great about long term relationships.

I agree with that! Dont get married at 21!

[sr73bu]

moral of the story, everything in moderation..

dont wild out building the car too big for your pockets..
dont wild out being married before youve seen a few more summers..

take it slow.. build the car on a MODEST build..DRIVE THE CAR IF IT CAN DRIVE HOW IT IS and if you make some money along the way.. add to the car here and there.

This is sound advice... and pretty much what I did over the years...

The difference between my car and my friends cars, with the same 20,000 budget?... I probably put around $1,200 in it each year over a 15 year period... my friends DUMPED $20,000 in the first year.... end result: my car is still running, driving and almost complete (but never done)... their cars: completely dis-assembled with almost half the budget spent on, now out-dated, rims/tires and the other half spent on "things that popped up"... not to mention a car that will never be completed and a debt that will always haunt them. Youre young, your interests will change and evolve... so stick with the car hobby, but don't overwhelm yourself worrying about the baddest thing on the block... that car will come in time...

Oh and the marriage thing?? dude, look at me!! I'm 29, married, with a child... its 11:41pm on St. Patricks day, Im giving you advice about marriage while sipping a warm beer... trust me.... this fun can wait... go enjoy ZERO responsibilites for a few years... When you think your ready for a challenge- get married.

-Sean


-Sean

[bikefreak600]

i agree with the do everything in moderation. i am building a protouring car, remodeling my house, saving for the future, raising a kid. i put all my bills / necessities first, then conservatively split money between the rest. i try to take turns doing small projects between the house & car. my wife is grateful that i dont spend every dime & minute of my free time working on the car. she does not complain when i purchase car parts because i always leave money for other stuff as well. just tell her that a hobby will keep a guy out of trouble lmao !
final verdict... putting your life savings in a car is STUPID. however, spending a portion of your money making a car you will enjoy is money well spent !

[SparkyRnD]

Ps Once you get married, its half her car anyway.

That's yet another reason to never move to Kaliforknee-ugh

[Happyfunballs]

Bottle the car and get an education(if you don't already). At 21, you could be out of school in 4/5 years and if she cares about you she'll wait. Live at home, don't get married, and spend the money on school. It isn't glamorous, but it'll help you in all aspects of your life.

[bikefreak600]

Bottle the car and get an education(if you don't already). At 21, you could be out of school in 4/5 years and if she cares about you she'll wait. Live at home, don't get married, and spend the money on school. It isn't glamorous, but it'll help you in all aspects of your life.

true story !

[ProTourGSX]

Reality Check: Most expensive things people have in their life:

#1: Real Estate/Property/HOME
#2: VEHICLES (purchase price/maintenance/insurance/etc.)
#3: who cares? See #1 & #2, as LONGTERM INVESTMENTS!

If you don't have a HOME (no rent/no mortgage/no maintenance or upkeep or improvement projects), but have an OPPORTUNITY to BUILD A CAR, then you SHOULD, or you may end up REGRETTING IT LATER, after you won't be able to AFFORD IT if you wait until you think you might "GET STARTED" as you get older! ASK you girlfriend to HELP you (with SOME things, not with the whole car), just so you can spend time TOGETHER, and you will both appreciate each other that much more!

My wife was never interested in my car hobby, but I kept her informed of what I wanted to do to my cars, for upgrades/etc. One day I came home from work, and found her sitting in the engine compartment of my car, removing the frame mounts FOR me, as I was getting ready to replace the small block with a big block, and needed to relocate the mounts, anyway! The car is long gone, and has been replaced by many others (I still have the frame mounts from that car), and I will always remember how my wife thought enough about ME, to surprise me with such an unselfish gesture!

20 years later, she still has no interest in my cars/car hobby, but by HER suggestion, she found a bigger house for us, with 3 (THREE) garages; 1: storage for my cars, parts & workshop/2: paintbooth/3: storage for lawn equipment & her cars, because she wanted me to have enough space to keep my cars & parts!

The car will get you where you NEED to GO: Back & Forth to school/work... to pick up your girlfriend for datenights... to give friends/family rides when their vehicles are out of commission for maintenance issues....

BUILD THE CAR! DON'T WAIT! DON'T FEEL GUILTY ABOUT IT, WHILE YOU HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY, WITH YOUR FAMILY & FRIENDS' SUPPORT & ENCOURAGEMENT!

[FlyDoc]

PorTourGSX
It sounds like you are as lucky as I am! My wife has a back ground of cars in her family. One of her dads T-buckets (roster) won the Oakland roster show in the mid 60's, my wife encouraged me to put on coil-over shocks instead of replacing the vet spring in my Camaro, which was x2 as much, she just knew that is the way I wanted to go and it would save us $$$.

Spend the $$$$$ include you girlfriend and have fun!

[Ishmael]

Anybody notice the OP stopped posting back on page 2 or 3 of this thread?

[Tony_SS]

Anybody notice the OP stopped posting back on page 2 or 3 of this thread?

yes, I wonder what he decided to do.. sold the car to buy his g/f a huge rock perhaps? lol

[Ishmael]

No, he has been active on the board since then.

[blakes72x]

i'm in the exact same boat except i'm 22 and the girlfriend already tried to get me to sell my car and we aren't married lol needless to say we aren't together anymore :getout:

i'm now building my nova up the way i wanted :twothumbs

[ProTourGSX]

i'm in the exact same boat except i'm 22 and the girlfriend already tried to get me to sell my car and we aren't married lol needless to say we aren't together anymore :getout:

i'm now building my nova up the way i wanted :twothumbs

Smart move, the car will cost a lot less than any girlfriend would!
Good Luck with your project, here!

[chuckd71]

The money you make now is worth more than the money you make when you are older.

Match dollar for dollar what you spend on the car in a savings account for a down payment on a house. .

This. Build the car you want but be realistic. Nobody needs $4000 wheels while they are living with their parents.