Thinking of jumping in but...

[chichirone]

This is one of the best threads I've read on here in a while. The candid feedback is immeasurable from the likes of Weld, Torino, Vince and others. These old cars are a "walletectomy". Simply stated. "Done" cars are not done. Drivers don't drive very long. But they all require wrenching and money for parts, repair, labor, etc. - and as Greg said, double whatever the shop/estimate is to complete the project. There is proof of this in numerous Project Updates on Lateral-G whether done by a shop or DIY'er.

Be patient. Save your cash. Invest wisely. (See Investing 102 thread) Pay yourself first. Buy when you can "afford" to spend. It will be a LOT more fun.