I have a 84 z28, with a built 305 HO. The car isn't much to look at now. Only two dents, paint is horrible. Rust on t-tops, broken locks.. etc. This is my plan... anyone with knowledge in this area, please correct where needed. First, engine and transmission: Make sure the engine and trany are reliable. Second, interior. Replacing and repairing most of the interior. To include, dash and radio and other electrical components. Third, exterior. Fix dents and rust etc... Not very detailed, there is much to fix. This is just a really rough draft. Look good?

Sounds like a good plan. If it's your daily driver, then you definitely want to make sure it drives well. Plus, when it's a good driver, it motivates you more to put the money into the cosmetics. I'm going through the same thing with my '88 camaro. runs great, needs a new exhaust and i've almost got the interior re-done. I just need some black leather seats. Once that's done, it'll be road-worthy and i can start worrying about replacing panels and painting it. Good luck with your build and post some pics.

I've heard the just the opposite.

A question posed to me before is, "What good is a strong engine and transmission in a car that is falling apart from rust?" The person then suggested that you need to be sure the body, frame and suspension are in acceptable condition and not a rusted thru piece. He then suggested that the engine and tranny be built up after that. Not sure which is proper, but this makes sense to me.

I agree with the above to an extent. I believe any time your "fixing up" a car to be a daily driver, safety is important. Start by making sure the body is structurally sound. Then the steering and suspension will need redone. The steering is commonly overlooked. You have to understand, a 25 year old car with 200,000 miles needs a front end overhaul to be safe! Also do yourself a favor and replace the entire braking system front to back. Now your ready to rebuild that motor and trans and hit the street. By this point you have yourself a dependable daily driver and you can "finish" the rest here and there as you see fit.