Hey guys,

Well my car is on the chopping block and I'm trying to decide what the smart thing to do here is. This is my new build post from earlier today that roughly outlines the budget I need to achieve my car goals with a rebuild, if you want to read it:

Godlike's Epic GTA Rebuild Thread

The short summary of work is as follows: repaint, new honeycomb rims (mine are scratched), tubular front-end, adjustable suspension, LSx/T56 swap, custom interior/electronics. Basically, everything. Total estimated bill: $16k.

I already realized I missed a couple things from that list that I want, namely rollcage and subframe connectors plus install costs (I don't weld).

I know I will never get the money I put into the car back, that's not the point. If I restore the car I will drive it into the ground until its worthless. I love third gens and this car was my baby, so no plans to sell after I restore it.

I'm thinking that maybe starting with another car that has some of the big ticket items already done might be smarter though, from a cost perspective. A candidate car would need most of the following items already done (or come with the parts):

-Required to be a Trans AM (not negotiable)
-Rollcage
-Subframe connectors
-Very nice paint
-LSx/T56
-Tubular front end
-Higher end adjustable suspension
-Honeycomb rims in very good condition

What are the chances of me finding a suitable starter car that already has most of these items knocked off its list? And suitably priced (<10k?) to make it worth the savings?

Would you try to find someone else's project car to continue or go ground up with your own rebuild?

Just trying to get some general opinions and thoughts on the subject

 

Nobody have any suggestions or opinions? lol

 

it'll be sick, do it!

 

Bill O'Reilly put it best: F*** it, we'll do it live!

Going ahead with restoration of my car. At least I know everything will be done properly and exactly the way I want it.

Pics coming to build thread soon.