is this really a good idea? Options

[rustyknife]

i've restored an 80 vw westy and a 68 vw single cab truck. i'm looking for a new project. i've lost a ton of $$$ on these projects but it keeps me sane. i like the look and history of the 914 and it seems that project-status cars are around for a decent price. does my previously-dented wallet prepare me for what's ahead if i go this route, or are we talking a completely different ball game?

i "restore" vehicles to make them safe and fun and usable, not showroom or anything like that.

what should a guy look for in a project car?

[jasons]

what should a guy look for in a project car?

First and foremost rust. Always look for rust. In general there are 2 kinds of 914's out there. Ones that have rust, and ones that have had the rust repaired. Chances are if you are buying a project 914 its gonna have some level of rust. Thats OK, you just want to know what you are getting and what makes sense to repair.

As far as $$$, these cars share more with 911's than with any VW. So expect Porsche parts prices.

Mechanically, I would say you are prepared.

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[rustyknife]

So expect Porsche parts prices.

this sounds intimidating. but what does it mean? never having owned a porsche, i have no frame of reference.

thanks for the tips all, it sounds promising.

another question i would have is what do these cars "feel" like? while i applaud the reliability of modern sport vehicles-especially japanese ones- a complaint i have is that they lack character and personality. i once had a fiat spyder that was a complete piece of unreliable junk but i loved it because it drove, sounded, and smelt like no other car.

[Gint]

So expect Porsche parts prices.

this sounds intimidating. but what does it mean? never having owned a porsche, i have no frame of reference.

thanks for the tips all, it sounds promising.

another question i would have is what do these cars "feel" like? while i applaud the reliability of modern sport vehicles-especially japanese ones- a complaint i have is that they lack character and personality. i once had a fiat spyder that was a complete piece of unreliable junk but i loved it because it drove, sounded, and smelt like no other car.

That question is easy to answer. There are a lot of 914's in your region. go for a ride. Better yet, I'm sure you can find a 914 owner that will let you take a spin in the driver's seat. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/driving.gif)

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