[rustyBob]

You hit the nail on the head...........do your research.........it will save your a$$ in the long run.And your budget of $45k is dooable BUT you will have to search for deals on slitly used parts and hit swap meets (which can be fun) and any help you can get from friends in the different trades will also help (body/paint,machine work,upholestry) it all makes a difference. seek out a Cobra club in your area an ask questions about everybodys cars,and keep it simple, it will make it easier to maintain in the long run.