hey guys, I have an 03 GT and it is my DD. I have recently gotten a new job and have lots of extra cash coming in. I'm now looking at getting a beater for a fixer-upper project. What year is the best to get the best look/performance? I like 66s, who doesnt. I also like 68 fastbacks alot, and I saw a pic of a 77 cobra II that was black w/ gold striping that i loved. what is your advice and how much would I be looking at to to a total rebuild?

 

When you see it, buy it - don't wait - that's how I got two of mine (both 66 Fastbacks) before the procrastinators made up their minds.
Jim

 

local newspapers ww2.collectorcartraderonline.com www.craigslist.org ebay does sell cars i just wouldnt buy one with out seeing it in person. somes you can find a car at a carshow/swap meet.what year you get its mostly up to you and what you like a coupe will be cheaper then a fastback or convertable.

 

http://fayetteville.craigslist.org/car/348551642.html

There ya go....
1966 Project cat for less than $1000

 

thats more then a project looks like a rust bucket to me

 

Maybe....
define rust....lol

I look at the pictures and see a car that will need lots of repair, but its still standing. (still on its wheels) If the frame rails are in good shape, you have something to start with.
The pictures dont show you enough, and it cant be determined how bad the rust really is.
It might be a rust bucket...it might be covered with surface rust.
Only way to know for sure is to go look at the car.
For 975. its worth a look.

 

Both your questions, which car and how much to restore, remind me of adult diapers - depends

You cannot go wrong with any of the classic mustangs. I personally prefer 68 and earlier, but there is nothing wrong with the later models. It is a matter of style and taste. I have a 68 and think there are some good arguments for it. For example, it came with some rudimentary safety upgrades such as the dual master cylinder (actually started in 67) and the rag joint in the steering column, and side marker refletors/lights.

How much? You may be able to find a deal and do all the work yourself and have a decent looking driver for as little as $5000. On the other hand, if you want a fire breathing show stopper and farm out the work it could easily cost on the order of $50,000.

 

"What looks best?"is 100% up to you and what you like.
"What performs best?" is another type of question though.

Over the years people have found ways to make all of the old mustangs fast or handle well. But some are harder to do that with than others. If perfomance is a big deal for you, then you may not want to deal with a 64-66. The 67-70 had room for larger engines and larger wheels. Beyond that, the 69-70 was the first Mustang that wasn't just a "strait-line" car. So it's probably a bit easier to get those to handle better without hacking them apart. Personally, I'd go with a 69 or 70,but if you like the 67-68s better, then do that instead.

 

I bought my first Mustang, a '65 GT coupe in 1988 in a similar manner. I was going to do it the "right way" by looking at plent of different cars, doing all the research, blah, blah blah ... then, just as I was finishing up the test drive on the first nicely running 4-speed car that I could find, another person pulled up with a bank check and wanted to buy it on the spot. Research, smeesearch, I bought it immediately.

 

Decide what year you like best, then see what's available in your area. Next, figure out how much of the work you will be able to do yourself, and find a car that YOU can work on. The labor cost involved in restoring a car is unreal. Find a car with a solid base...if you can. You can bolt on new fenders in your driveway, but installing 1/4's is a whole different story. I am in the process of restoring a 65 fastback for my 16yr old son. IfI had to pay even 20 bucks an hour for labor I have put into this car i would be homeless...your labor is free...