Newbie -- Ex-Lotus Elise Owner

[Martin89]

Hello everyone.

I've been enjoying reading about and viewing all the projects on this board. As the thread title states I recently (very reluctantly!) sold my new 2005 Lotus Elise. I had to free up the cash to help out family. That is all water under the bridge now. After talking with my wife about an eventual replacement, I have only seen one car that catches my eye and IS "family" friendly......a 69 Crate Camaro Convertible.

I know this is a major undertaking but as an Engineer/Mechanic I think it would be a great and rewarding experience. Some of the work I will pay a shop to do and some of the work I will do myself. I have already bench designed the car, (created a wish list of components) now I just have to bring the price down to an amount my wife won't have a heart attack over. Problem is I want a 69 Camaro convertible shell.....with all modern interior, suspension and drive train. I know budget and performance don't often work together in the same sentence. I guess I'll have to take it slow and just do it the way I want; as I can.

Well, that's my story. Kind of a crazy dream but any words of wisdom would be appreciated.

Ken