14 Y/o Want To Start A Project

[JDMTyler3326]

I want to start a project car. But should I buy a car now and work on it slowly? Start from a straight and clean it up? Or buy something that's pretty clean for a more expensive price. And I also know a bit about cars..just not too much, do you guys just pick up the knowledge from working on it?

I am really looking into a MR2 or a 240sx as a project car...

[BigWhiteTodd]

yeah i got my first car at 13 i dont see why not

[TROLL]

As I see it, here's what you need to jump into a 'project car'.

-A place to store it, and work on it, with a decent variety of tools
-A more knowledgeable person or people who are willing to help you with things
-Willingness to do a lot of reading and research online to learn everything you dont know
-Money and time to spare... it will always cost more and take longer than you think

[tdmopar59]

As I see it, here's what you need to jump into a 'project car'.

-A place to store it, and work on it, with a decent variety of tools
-A more knowledgeable person or people who are willing to help you with things
-Willingness to do a lot of reading and research online to learn everything you dont know
-Money and time to spare... it will always cost more and take longer than you think

exactly!!! i've worked on cars at a much younger age than that... but that was because i had plenty of people to teach me different stuff as we went...

[TGilb2007]

I want to start a project car. But should I buy a car now and work on it slowly? Start from a straight and clean it up? Or buy something that's pretty clean for a more expensive price. And I also know a bit about cars..just not too much, do you guys just pick up the knowledge from working on it?

I am really looking into a MR2 or a 240sx as a project car...

I learned most of what I know from doing it. Look at it like this.... if you start working and learning now... eventually, a couple of things will happen.

A. You will learn a TON from doing so
B. You will have something that you are proud of.
and C. You can get something now, take your time to get it right, and you don't have to worry about getting to point A to point B without having to worry about, "****, my car is on jackstands again"

[JDMTyler3326]

As I see it, here's what you need to jump into a 'project car'.

-A place to store it, and work on it, with a decent variety of tools
-A more knowledgeable person or people who are willing to help you with things
-Willingness to do a lot of reading and research online to learn everything you dont know
-Money and time to spare... it will always cost more and take longer than you think

1- I have a place to store it,,, under the car port...
2- My friends dad and people that are on here.
3- That is why i am on forums.
4-And I know that... That is why i want to start one now...

[abrok99]

As I see it, here's what you need to jump into a 'project car'.

-A place to store it, and work on it, with a decent variety of tools
-A more knowledgeable person or people who are willing to help you with things
-Willingness to do a lot of reading and research online to learn everything you dont know
-Money and time to spare... it will always cost more and take longer than you think

exactly what he said. i wouldnt it would be no fun when your 14 cause you cant get a job unless your parents are paying for it how will you fund it.

its going to be expensive really expensive :(

[TGilb2007]

As I see it, here's what you need to jump into a 'project car'.

-A place to store it, and work on it, with a decent variety of tools
-A more knowledgeable person or people who are willing to help you with things
-Willingness to do a lot of reading and research online to learn everything you dont know
-Money and time to spare... it will always cost more and take longer than you think

I totally agree....

Thankfully, since he is 14, he doesn't have to worry about bills, rent, credit cards, and so on and so forth... so as long as he has at least a part time job, income is there. Time.... he is damn 14 lol. No work, no need for the car to always have to be on the road, and yada yada.

[Oakes]

Troll already laid out some guidelines.

Key points are the research/reading/knowledgable input from others. Take your time, you have plenty of it till you're 16, hell you could build one sick car by the time you can drive if you do it right.

Keep this in mind, while impulse buys are fun, buy the things you need as you go. Example: Don't blow money on a turbo/kit when you haven't replaced alot of the stock components that need to be replaced, and other simple maintenance essentials.

[JDMTyler3326]

I totally agree....

Thankfully, since he is 14, he doesn't have to worry about bills, rent, credit cards, and so on and so forth... so as long as he has at least a part time job, income is there. Time.... he is damn 14 lol. No work, no need for the car to always have to be on the road, and yada yada.

Well i have close to a grand right now to buy a car.. Then this summer is when i am going to start to work full time...

[abrok99]

Well i have close to a grand right now to buy a car.. Then this summer is when i am going to start to work full time...

well good luck man lol thats all i can say plus your doing more than i did when i was 14 also it will be hard finding a mr2/240sx under 1k running or not

[TROLL]

Yeah if you have some income to be able to fund the project then I think it could be cool... just try to plan as much as you can about how it will go now so you can make good decisions from the start.
I have learned basically everything I know from researching it and doing it (either solo or with the help of someone more experienced). I feel that I've come a really long way, so I think its a great way to go about things, but its important to learn how to do it properly, and not cut corners so the quality of the work is high and the result is a reliable, well put together finished product.

[jdm free]

Well i have close to a grand right now to buy a car.. Then this summer is when i am going to start to work full time...

a grand wont get u much and a full time job, im guessin min wage or close to it really is much money, save money and wait till u got a few grand saved up then buy a car

[JDMTyler3326]

a grand wont get u much and a full time job, im guessin min wage or close to it really is much money, save money and wait till u got a few grand saved up then buy a car

But I want a project car.. If I save up money I can get a car runing and nice

[jdm free]

But I want a project car.. If I save up money I can get a car runing and nice

a grand wont go very far, theres no sense spending ur money all at once to buy a shell and have it sit forever til u can buy a motor to swap in it. just my .02

[CHR!S]

But I want a project car.. If I save up money I can get a car runing and nice

you're going to have a hard time finding a 240/mr2 for around $1000, unless it needs alot of work. take the next 6 months and start looking around for cars that you might think are worth becoming project cars. then, if you do find one in your range in the condition youre looking for, get it.

[JDMTyler3326]

Like here is some cars

http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/933031251.html
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/931453933.html
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/922944000.html
http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/936655960.html

[JDMTyler3326]

you're going to have a hard time finding a 240/mr2 for around $1000, unless it needs alot of work. take the next 6 months and start looking around for cars that you might think are worth becoming project cars. then, if you do find one in your range in the condition youre looking for, get it.

I get what you mean... But I was thinking get something now and then after i work the summer get the motor and some other parts

[240vert]

That sounds like a good idea. Just don't jump on the first car you see. I would probably make your first priorities after getting one is to get it running to where you want it before modding stuff.

[TROLL]

Definitely try to start with a solid shell... I dont know how much money you'll be able to put toward it with working but also keep in mind that car insurance and gas are really expensive. Its really insane how much it costs to own and operate a car, but we still do it anyway.

[Oakes]

Well, set up a plan before you buy the car.

Will you be swapping the motor? Fixing/building the current one? Anything of the like.

[JDMTyler3326]

Definitely try to start with a solid shell... I dont know how much money you'll be able to put toward it with working but also keep in mind that car insurance and gas are really expensive. Its really insane how much it costs to own and operate a car, but we still do it anyway.

I dont have to worrie about insurance or anything like that right now... It will not be on the road until done that is when i can drive

[Oakes]

Definitely try to start with a solid shell... I dont know how much money you'll be able to put toward it with working but also keep in mind that car insurance and gas are really expensive. Its really insane how much it costs to own and operate a car, but we still do it anyway.

True for us right now, gas/insurance/car payment restricts me from wanting to mod my car, however that might be changing shortly.

However, you get an advantage being 14, you don't have to insure the car because it won't be driven and you don't have to fuel the car for the same reason. That is alot of extra money in your pocket.

[JDMTyler3326]

True for us right now, gas/insurance/car payment restricts me from wanting to mod my car, however that might be changing shortly.

However, you get an advantage being 14, you don't have to insure the car because it won't be driven and you don't have to fuel the car for the same reason. That is alot of extra money in your pocket.

ya thats true money right there

[Stillen GLE]

In all Honesty dude, I wouldn't take on a Project at your age, Buy a car that you can beat around for the time being, building a project car can get very expensive, sometime's thing's you buy cost more then the car its self. wait til you settle with a good job and get finished with school, your a freshman in HS right!, Save your money and then you can buy something nicer then the 240, plus you"ll want to date girls right, you want to have enough money for them to. just dont dump all your money on a project right now, like some people said it takes skill and knowledge to successfully build a car. I am not trying to put you down but think logical, at this time. you have plenty of time down the road to build something nice.

[JDMTyler3326]

In all Honesty dude, I wouldn't take on a Project at your age, Buy a car that you can beat around for the time being, building a project car can get very expensive, sometime's thing's you buy cost more then the car its self. wait til you settle with a good job and get finished with school, your a freshman in HS right!, Save your money and then you can buy something nicer then the 240, plus you"ll want to date girls right, you want to have enough money for them to. just dont dump all your money on a project right now, like some people said it takes skill and knowledge to successfully build a car. I am not trying to put you down but think logical, at this time. you have plenty of time down the road to build something nice.

I get ya... But to let you know I take my girls to BK. Then other places... I go for the cheap girls

[Stillen GLE]

I get ya... But to let you know I take my girls to BK. Then other places... I go for the cheap girls

That's No Good, take them somewhere nice man.

[IdriveBad]

Just a heads up, do not buy any cars from this guy: http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/931453933.html

I've seen that car in person and the other coupe he has, they are beat to **** and not worth a penny. It looks like someone went ape**** on the framerails. He tried selling me that car for $700 when it was running last year, then he tried selling it to me for $900 when it was broke. STAY AWAY!

You can definitely find a 240 no problem, although an mr2 would be pimp since they aren't as played out. Both nice cars, both'll be fun. Good luck with your pick.

[JDMTyler3326]

That's No Good, take them somewhere nice man.

lol but that is my money for a car

[92sileighty]

i can see being around the scene you would want to build a car. it will take time and money to build a car, that's just life. but it takes time and money to do anything so why not do something that will benefit you sooner or later. i think you should go for it. also, i agree with what everyone else says, start with a good shell but don't dump all your money on it. if you need to save up for a couple months then save up. believe me a couple months is nothing when it will allow you to have a car to work on for years to come man. i know patience are hard to come by, especially at your age, but the faster you learn them the better off you will be. and what stillen said too, dont dump every paycheck into the car, make sure you have money to do things in life besides work on a car. you will need to get away from the car from time to time and having money to go out will allow you to keep your sanity lol believe me

[Renegade_]

If your 14 and want to start a car project now, thats awesome. You have so much time to get it done, don't be in a rush, take care of it and do it right.

If your doing a 240 do your ABSOLUTE best to find a chassis that has no rust. A good base means everything. A lot of them have rust, so keep an eye out for that. KAs are cheap, suspension is cheap, the car is cheap, but the chassis has so many awesome handling characteristics. Don't worry about the SR swap yet... I know I would have killed myself already if I had that much power in high school :D You can drift with a KA no problem if thats what your looking to do (as it is what most people want to do with a 240, myself included)

I say this for the girl situation... save money, build a car, then get the chicks... A clean S13 w/aero slammed on some nice fitment attracts a good crowd.

[mustang08]

Great idea go ahead with it i wish i could start working on my first car before i got my liscence. My friend bought a camaro when he was 14 and built it up till he got his liscence and it was a great car for him and he could be proud by saying he built it himself. The other great part is u will learn alot from building the car urself and without paying for gas and insurance ull have alot of money to build the car the way u want. Go ahead with the build and when u get ur liscence u will have a great looking car and be picking up girls left and right lol

[JDMTyler3326]

i can see being around the scene you would want to build a car. it will take time and money to build a car, that's just life. but it takes time and money to do anything so why not do something that will benefit you sooner or later. i think you should go for it. also, i agree with what everyone else says, start with a good shell but don't dump all your money on it. if you need to save up for a couple months then save up. believe me a couple months is nothing when it will allow you to have a car to work on for years to come man. i know patience are hard to come by, especially at your age, but the faster you learn them the better off you will be. and what stillen said too, dont dump every paycheck into the car, make sure you have money to do things in life besides work on a car. you will need to get away from the car from time to time and having money to go out will allow you to keep your sanity lol believe me

i get you man... But there is no way i will be able not to spend my money on something else but the car..
When I save up for something I will not spend my money on anything until I get what I wanted...

[92sileighty]

That's No Good, take them somewhere nice man.

lol hes 14 man, hes not gonna find "love" any time soon so why waste the money at nice places. don't waste all your money on girls just like you wouldn't on the car. make them pay once and a while too, girls wanted to be independent and **** right, well now is their chance to prove it to you lol.

[mustang08]

I get ya... But to let you know I take my girls to BK. Then other places... I go for the cheap girls

Those cheap girls are great haha there easy going usealy the expensive girls are high matienece and ull spend more on them then ur car lol

[mustang08]

I get ya... But to let you know I take my girls to BK. Then other places... I go for the cheap girls

Those cheap girls are great haha there easy going usealy the expensive girls are high matienece and ull spend more on them then ur car lol

[JDMTyler3326]

Those cheap girls are great haha there easy going usealy the expensive girls are high matienece and ull spend more on them then ur car lol

YOU got that right!!!

[Erik]

Well, im all for the idea, but you need to remember the hidden funds that will play a factor in a project. Things that you cant do your self so paying for labor, tools which can get very expensive, shipping for items bought online, time, beer (for the guys that will help you with your swap), itll be consuming. like mentioned before, its all patience.

[TurboTagTeam]

Do you have the proper tools and space for a "project" ?

There's no way I'd ever attempt to build a car without a heated indoor garage and plenty of space.

[JDMTyler3326]

Do you have the proper tools and space for a "project" ?

There's no way I'd ever attempt to build a car without a heated indoor garage and plenty of space.

I have the space and tools... but it is out doors

[Erik]

i work outside as well, but i like working in the cold. Im usually wearing sweatpants under my jeans, a hoody and 2 gloves, knit then my mechanix. Get a car cover after you buy your car. Be prepared to use your car as a storage area. If your on an incline, its gonna be a lot more difficult. imagine suspending that engine with your picker rolling lol

[Stillen GLE]

Also keep in mind, A well built car takes years to build not months years, you have to be prepared for setback's and thing's you wouldn't expect to be expensive will be.

In all honesty dude its your money and like i said before, you have a whole lot of time ahead before you start thinking about building a car, Save your money up and buy something to beat around in like i mentioned before because there will be other thing's out there that you"ll want to buy and you dont want the car keeping you from buying something else that you want. I was once in the same boat as you, I quickly realized it wouldnt be worth it at the point of time, so I am waiting til the right time come's to take on such a project, everyday my mind change's one day i may tell you something the next it will be different. enjoy life especially at your age because your gonna wish you can go back, this is the age where if you get in trouble with the cops they cant really do anything to you and you more then likely get away with alot of thing's as if you were an adult that's different.

[PoorMan'sR]

You will definitely learn alot by reading up in forums and doing things yourself, but there is gonna be alot, and i mean alot of trial and error

[JDMTyler3326]

You will definitely learn alot by reading up in forums and doing things yourself, but there is gonna be alot, and i mean alot of trial and error

i', up for it

[fear_no_evo]

Ok idk if any one has sed this yet ur 14 don't build something u can't control iv seen to many first time drivers with cars the are way to powerful for them and get badly hurt work ur self up to power I hope other people agree with me and good luck with the build should be fun

[Stillen GLE]

Ok idk if any one has sed this yet ur 14 don't build something u can't control iv seen to many first time drivers with cars the are way to powerful for them and get badly hurt work ur self up to power I hope other people agree with me and good luck with the build should be fun

Ive mention to him, that its not neccessary to build a car right now.

[mustang08]

yeah but hes 14 its not like he will have the money to supercharge or turbo it more then it already is. he will probally just fix up the motor ans shine it up and fix up the body and paint. At 14 i was no where even near the money to buy and car and from what i hear he has to save up to get the car and that it will take him months to get the money for that so for any major speed upgrades he will have to save up for months before it happens

[cmr076]

i didnt read through all the posts, but my .02 are this:

1) project cars are AWESOME, as long as you have another car to drive when you temporarily lose interest in the project car/ run out of money/ just need a break from it (they get super frustrating)

2) Take everything in moderation. Don't dump all your money into a project car and cut corners in other aspects of your life. (girls, fun, etc) your 14, you have the rest of your life to dump obscene amounts of $ into a car. If you DO cut corners now in those other aspects, you will probably regret it down the line.

3) If you get a car for 500 dollars, expect a 500 dollar car. what i mean by that is it will need a LOT of work and take a lot of time, this can be VERY frustrating and EXTREMELY expensive, but at the same time very fun.

4) dont get a 240, there played out. get this:http://philadelphia.craigslist.org/cto/936655960.html its JDMwill's. WAYYY cooler than a 240.


cliffnotes: have fun, be 14, take your time, dont get a 240

[TurboTagTeam]

If I were u....get a normal car to drive to school and to High School house parties...and build a race car on the side. I HATE driving my 240 everyday.

[Erik]

Well, depending on where the OP is located, he wont be driving for a while now. Picking up a father/son project might be a good idea. I wouldnt go balls deep solo quite yet. Ive been into cars all my life, changing oil when i was like 6 and ****. I just picked up my first project now at 19, and im pulling my hair out. Unless you have several grand saved up (and i mean like 5 or so) that money will drain a lot faster than you think.

[fear_no_evo]

Ya money gos fast iv dun a few small builds but nuthing that was big un till I got my wrx and ill tell u I stay broke

[MPowerKai]

If I were u....get a normal car to drive to school and to High School house parties...and build a race car on the side. I HATE driving my 240 everyday.

I agree

[Ender81]

You should think about getting something classic to work on instead of trying to build some crazy race car. I learned more working on my 77 Beetle then I ever did working on my 240's or the WRX. Best part is older cars are easier to work on, generally cheaper, and when you are done you will have something unique.

[Instigator1225]

77 Beetle


get one of these shells for like under 800... spend 2500 bucks at most.. and you will be faster than most of the people on this site under the age of 25. and will be more baller than any 240...


your smart for joining a forum.. but i believe your jsut nut swinging at the moment for a 240 or a mr2.. both cars are big time played on this website.... but then again being from north east ohio.... DSM's are every nut swingers dream...but so are dodge colts.


take your time.. hell that ae86 would be a swtt project i didnt scope the pics but those hav damn nice potential and are way better than a 240 IMO.

[Ender81]

get one of these shells for like under 800... spend 2500 bucks at most.. and you will be faster than most of the people on this site under the age of 25. and will be more baller than any 240....

I have contemplated pulling the stock motor and trans out of my 66 and throw in a performance setup for this very reason lol.

If you don't believe him look up ActionPark's for sale thread and see what a bug is capable of.

[Instigator1225]

I have contemplated pulling the stock motor and trans out of my 66 and throw in a performance setup for this very reason lol.

If you don't believe him look up ActionPark's for sale thread and see what a bug is capable of.



you can go fast for cheap.. but if your going to spend the loot and go for broke spend roughly 8k ...idk the actually prices because i dont worry about labor... but i know for me a full sti swap minus suspension would be 4k ish with a tranny axles and what not with a 35r and full fuel mods... and that easily is going to be a 10 second bug on pump gas with suspension and slicks.. which is what i plan to do..once i have time to do anything but work....

but i also wanna do an air cooled motor.. those things sound sick.

but good luck with your bug.

[Tires2theSky]

i think it would be good start a project. Just make sure you buy the best car u can for the price u want, you can find some nice 240's esp in the Philly area for very low prices. I would be more interested in a pristine body that needs motor work ect, just cuz i hate doing body work. Just make sure you have a way to keep the car dry even if its in the car port, so either car cover or tarp if u have any bare metal showing you don't want it to rust.

[JDMTyler3326]

I will see what I can find for some bugs.

[CULATER]

Just get a rx7 shell and put a v8 in it. If you went carbed 350 then you could build it for around $4000 and still be fairly quick. Its definatly different. I cant get gas without someone asking to see whats under the hood. You will get nods and thumbs up from random people riding down the road. At red lights you will always feel like someone is looking at you(because they are). Its great.

I bought my car when i was like 15 and started the project. I am now almost 18 and the car is semi fast(never fast enough) and running great. I say go for it and just be smart about everything.

[NJGOAT]

Well, someone needs to be the voice of adult reason.

Take the money you have and the money you will earn working and save it. Put it all away in a savings account or money market. Maybe even buy some 12 month CD's if you see some good rates offered. Figure out what you think you may want to do with your life after high school and then when it's after high school use all the money you've saved to get the education you need to get it done. Even if the education you need is fully paid for that money can come in very handy so you have something to live off of while you're in school so you don't need to work or wrack up credit card debt. If you really NEED a car when you get your license buy something cheap and reliable that gets good gas mileage...Corolla, Civic, etc. When you get a career going you can afford to buy whatever you want.

Or, if you don't want to listen to the wisdom of the ages, do what everyone else does and sink what little money you have into a project car. You'll learn a lot along the way and it can be a blast doing it especially if you have friends and family to partake in the project.

[92dxman]

Why don't you start wrenching on a project bicycle? It would be a helluva alot cheaper than a project car. Heck, if you get bored or frustrated with it, you could sell it no problem. I agree with the voices saying just get some cheap transportation when its license time. Hell, my first car was an 87 Chevy Nova with a 3 speed automatic. You could walk up a hill faster than driving that thing up a hill.

[[sr20]sean]

i was in the same position as you when i was your age im now 17 though. when i was 14 i wanted a car but my parents didnt want me to get one so i turned my spare gokart, a yerfdog or however its spelled with a 6hp tecumseh engine, and turned it into a 10 hp gokart with disc brakes and an e-brake. i sold it though cause i wanted money for a car when i turned 16. now ive been working on building a spare sr20 for my 200sx se-r or so i can put it in a b13 sentra if i can find money to get one. its been about 6 or 7 months since i picked up the engine and all ive been able to pick up were bearings. this weekend im going to be picking up 1 or 2 more engines off the same guy i picked up my last one from. ones a highport sr20de from a infiniti g20 with low compression and the other is an avenir sr20det longblock with a spun bearing. i'll probably be tearing these apart the same day i pick them up so i can plan out what im going to keep and what im going to be getting rid of. and im much like you. i work outside when im working on my car and my workshop is a non insulated shed. in cold weather i run extension cords out to the shed and plug a space heater in so its decently warm in there.

[boostedmr2]

I see your interested in mr2's and 240's. I bought a NA 1993 MR2 in clean running order with 105k on it for 6 grand when i was 16. I would consider buying a 91 na shell and putting a 5sfe natually aspirated motor in it to get you started. The best thing with the mr2 is its rarity factor. They are somewhat difficult to work on but i always like challenges. With an online version of a shop manual you can do anything to it on your own and they are free lol! You might not find shells everywhere but with patience they come. I remember when i was 14 everyone always gave me advice but my opinion and thoughts always stayed up front. With that in mind I support your interest in building a car. Anyways if you truly want to build an mr2 i'd be more than happy to help you along the way. What part of PA are you actually from? With a good shell na parts are a lot cheaper that turbo parts so you should be able to have a running rolling chassis for when you get your license. Hope this helps you out man best of luck to whatever you settle on building

[JDMTyler3326]

Ok my dads friend has a 89 Rex for 500 for me... No motor or trans but has everything else... There is surface rust he says but we I go there tomorrow I am gonna take pics and see what you guys think.

[ghstrg78]

hey man i also did the same thing, i picked up an 86 corolla with a blown motor when i was 16.... just be prepared to get frustrated. Especially with old cars, you will never ever be satisfied until everything is replace. I ended up trying to sell most of my other belongings just to get my car running. If you are sure you are passionate about building a car, go for it, but if you get car that old, dont get your expectations high unless you are properly funded.

[JDMTyler3326]

Also forgot to add im gonna check out the AE86 too. When I can

[abrok99]

Ok my dads friend has a 89 Rex for 500 for me... No motor or trans but has everything else... There is surface rust he says but we I go there tomorrow I am gonna take pics and see what you guys think.

89' rex?? whats that ?

[ghstrg78]

ae86's are awesome cars, but without prior toyota knowledge there a lot of work. Also you are extremely limited with ought a s**t tun of money.

[JDMTyler3326]

89' rex?? whats that ?

crx.....

[Instigator1225]

crx.....


oh god.

from a baller ae86 to the hatch from hell..

[3rdGenMr2Girl]

don't get a crx...get an mr2, they're a blast and you could build a n/a for relatively cheap...but don't expect it to be anything crazy with only a few grand. and prepare to spend lots and lots of time.

[Instigator1225]

don't get a crx...get an mr2, they're a blast and you could build a n/a for relatively cheap...but don't expect it to be anything crazy with only a few grand. and prepare to spend lots and lots of time.

or... if u want to go faster NA.... and handle fairly well... get the crx.. and go NA with some itb's..and have a damn good time.

[3rdGenMr2Girl]

there's just too many crx's around..that's why i like mr2s, you don't see as many. definitely don't start off with a turbo anything though, too much power for a first car is never a good idea. i would have died if i would have started with my current car lol.

[Tires2theSky]

Just get a rx7 shell and put a v8 in it. If you went carbed 350 then you could build it for around $4000 and still be fairly quick. Its definatly different. I cant get gas without someone asking to see whats under the hood. You will get nods and thumbs up from random people riding down the road. At red lights you will always feel like someone is looking at you(because they are).


If you would decide to do this let me know i have alot of stuff for the swap like the motor mount kit and other spare parts. I was working on an rx7 with LT1 swap before i got stationed in NC and sold the car.

[JDMTyler3326]

WOW come on guys we are talking about how I should not have a turbo in my car but you guys are talking about a RX7 Ls1 swap.

[3rdGenMr2Girl]

^ don't do that haha

[TGilb2007]

I get what you mean... But I was thinking get something now and then after i work the summer get the motor and some other parts

Some advice here, and Troll already hit the nail on the head. Don't just jump on to the first thing that you see. Do some research, and look around a lot. If you are looking for specific things, try to visit forums that specialize on those cars (not that TST isn't good or anything).

Also, the AE86 shell looks to have a good amount of rust in the cabin. Not sure how bad, but it doesn't look good.

It does seem though that you have a decent head on your shoulders, and looking to tackle this in a good manner. Just try to keep saving up as much as possible, and get something that you KNOW you can finish. 2 years may seem like a long time, but believe me, its not.

[tdmopar59]

honestly... project car... first time.. make it easy... do a carborated(sp?) v8...

[R_Rambo]

Why don't you start wrenching on a project bicycle?

thats a better idea

[Tires2theSky]

WOW come on guys we are talking about how I should not have a turbo in my car but you guys are talking about a RX7 Ls1 swap.

no one every said do a Ls1 swap you could do as was stated before a carberated 350 or even do a LT1 out of a 90's camaro z28 they were only rated for 270-280 hp, and will give you a good platform to expand on.

But don't let anyone sway you decision one way or the other, in the end its your car and you have to be happy with it.

[boostedmr2]

Do your research kid, best advise anyone can give you. It doesn't seem like your steering towards an MR2 but if so the mr2oc.com forum has a lot of info about these cars as well as being a good source for used mr2 parts. The number one advantage to building an NA one of these is that they handle sooooo well still. I swear sometimes i feel like im driving a go cart and thats with stock suspension. Also since they are an older car, there is less complicated wiring to deal with. i'd say it could be done for under $4k maybe less depends on what shell you buy and how much you want to do.

[SLVRSUBBIEREX]

ive got a go kart if u want to finish it

[JDMTyler3326]

Dude I am growing out of go karts.. I know what I am gonna do now I am gonna be getting a lot of money for Christmas and working on Christmas break then 3/27 is my b-day I am gonna be getting A LOT more money. SO what I am gonna do save my money until my B-day and get a 240sx for my b-day. Then I am gonna be working over the summer so I will be getting money right there.
This is what I will do with the 240 then.
Built KA
FIX ALL RUST(If any)
Paint it a light pink
Lowered
Rims
Maybe 5 lug
then gut the inside out
And FIX everything up

[frosti108]

good plan!

is the KA going to built out of playdough?

[JDMTyler3326]

Ya lol... No but I want it a built NA KA

[Soon2bG60]

Dude I am growing out of go karts.. I know what I am gonna do now I am gonna be getting a lot of money for Christmas and working on Christmas break then 3/27 is my b-day I am gonna be getting A LOT more money. SO what I am gonna do save my money until my B-day and get a 240sx for my b-day. Then I am gonna be working over the summer so I will be getting money right there.
This is what I will do with the 240 then.
Built KA
FIX ALL RUST(If any)
Paint it a light pink
Lowered
Rims
Maybe 5 lug
then gut the inside out
And FIX everything up


You want a Built motor, Right away, as your first car? Thats an accident waiting to happen.

[russiankid]

You're going to learn a lot of new vocabulary words when you work on older cars.

[JDMTyler3326]

You want a Built motor, Right away, as your first car? Thats an accident waiting to happen.

Yes but that is why I am doing NA

[Soon2bG60]

You're going to learn a lot of new vocabulary words when you work on older cars.


Yeah Ive learned that already, Cause I was taught older cars before newer ones, and it is a huge differance.

[TurboTagTeam]

Paint it a light pink
then gut the inside out


Your ****ing kidding me right?

[JDMTyler3326]

Your ****ing kidding me right?

What,,, Pink is the bomb

[russiankid]

Yeah Ive learned that already, Cause I was taught older cars before newer ones, and it is a huge differance.

Well even with new cars you learn new stuff. Ever worked on a Miata?:mad:

[IdriveBad]

The crx would be easy to make quick and fun. Basic honda swaps (D/B Series) are easy and for the most part, affordable. My cousin had a gsr swapped crx which was pretty quick, and his friend had a built LS (b18 non-vtec) turbo crx that was pushing over 400whp. I think that ae86 from jdmwill for $500 would a nice deal as well. Either of those will be fun cars. You might as well just jump on either and have fun learning to build that car and drive. It's not like you are going to be tied down to one car. You can learn with it, then if you want to try something different you can just sell it, or pick up another car to wrench.

[IdriveBad]

Yes but that is why I am doing NA

An NA car can still be fast. :mad:

[R_Rambo]

pink rims are the limit you do not paint a car a pink

[JDMTyler3326]

This is what I want to get my 240sx to look like but cleaner

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b342/ayuaddict/1-12.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b342/ayuaddict/3-5.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b342/ayuaddict/2-12.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b342/ayuaddict/4-3.jpg

[SLVRSUBBIEREX]

built motor in your first car is a bad idea. i had a worked firebird for my second car and it wasnt even close to built and i still managed to total it. ill admit it i was too immature for it. just do yourself a favor and start very slow then u will actually have some appreciation for your work and not drive it like a total jackass

[R_Rambo]

those pics further the argument for not paintin a car pink

[JDMTyler3326]

those pics further the argument for not paintin a car pink

But on that car is CAN paint i would do real paint

[jdm free]

why are people so against built cars for someones first. just dont drive like an ass and ull be fine. but a built ka isnt really a rout to go when building n/a. if u want n/a u should go wit a honda or a older miata

[Stillen GLE]

no offense, those tail lights on that 240 need to go ASAP.

[Instigator1225]

no offense to the kid.... i dont know why you guys are giving him a hard time about a built motor...

ive worked in my dads shop for a long time and ive relized two important things.. young kids talk...alot.... and dont follow through.

this kid doesnt have the time NOR the most important thing... MONEY!!!!


hes going to say he wants a built motor.. then probibly doing a ****ing ebay turbo kit and what make 280 hp if hes lucky? its not like hes taking a ****ing ls1 and throwing some spray to it...

dude jsut get a clean ass shell... fix it up.. keep it clean.. paint it whatever color you want...you dont have the knowledge nor the intelligence at this point to be jumping right into somthing...

i am in no way trying to insult you.. i am jsut being realistic.

[[sr20]sean]

you want a pink 240sx?
go with something like this.
http://www.tunerzine.com/articles/97/images/e.jpg

[amit]

An MR2 project started at a young age is possibly the best idea for someone who loves never having any money :)

oh and how is your name drifting240sx without actually owning a 240sx or ever drifting?

[jdm free]

An MR2 project started at a young age is possibly the best idea for someone who loves never having any money :)

oh and how is your name drifting240sx without actually owning a 240sx or ever drifting?

its the internet leave him alone. he also was crazy about mustangs when his dad got one if its the dude im thinkin bout

[3rdGenMr2Girl]

An MR2 project started at a young age is possibly the best idea for someone who loves never having any money :)

oh and how is your name drifting240sx without actually owning a 240sx or ever drifting?

haha that's the truth, i have no money because of my mr2...but i bet you just build a n/a for relatively cheap if you don't expect too much out of it.

[ghstrg78]

why would u ever get a pink car?

[JDMTyler3326]

oh and how is your name drifting240sx without actually owning a 240sx or ever drifting?
But I will own a 240 and I will be drifting it so.
why would u ever get a pink car?

Because real man wear pink... SO I want a Pink car lol

[shuttlegoose]

your right around a great age to pick up a project car and work on it. Knowledge is power man, do your research and get your hands dirty. My best friend got his first dsm when we were 14 and we learned a lot from just taking stuff apart and putting it back together. you can't go wrong with a nice 240 shell either.

[JDMTyler3326]

Man I hate people when they bring me down, every one is making fun of me and saying all of this crap about my Age.. Also saying I know nothing they just make me mad... Wait until I get a 240 and it will be nicer then what they own.

[Instigator1225]

Man I hate people when they bring me down, every one is making fun of me and saying all of this crap about my Age.. Also saying I know nothing they just make me mad... Wait until I get a 240 and it will be nicer then what they own.


i hope you werent talking about me...

[Tires2theSky]

Man I hate people when they bring me down, every one is making fun of me and saying all of this crap about my Age.. Also saying I know nothing they just make me mad... Wait until I get a 240 and it will be nicer then what they own.


Don't let people get to ya man, most people on here wish they would have had a project car to work on at 14. Don't worry about the age thing either, I'm really big into the stunt world and look at aaron colton he was 14 and in the top 5 stunt riders in the country and most would agree riding a motorcycle is alot more dangerous than a car. Age is just a number, keep focused and be smart about the decisions you make

[boostedmr2]

^Age is just a number kid if you think you can do it then you're only going to learn by trying. I used to take everything apart and put it back together when i was like 8 in my dads garage, drills, other power tools, my dirtbike, anything i could get my hands on and now i can do just about anything i put my mind to. The best way to start a project car is to write down a rough estimate on how much you can project your build to cost to get it running/ street legal. I would plan on buying a project car that you think you are capable of bringing it to a good running order and that you can drive when ya get your license. Build it slow and you will appreciate it much more man.

[JDMTyler3326]

i hope you werent talking about me...

No another forum

[CULATER]

You came here for an opinion and everyone gave you one. Expect for people to say something you dont like. Saying your car will be better than everyone elses is pretty funny.Especially someone who doesn't make any money and has a few years before they can drive. Good luck.

[R_Rambo]

just beware you always think you have whats its all gonna cost in mind.....that never happens

[Instigator1225]

just beware you always think you have whats its all gonna cost in mind.....that never happens

point ****ing made.. this kid doesnt have a clue what its going to cost to get his car from point A to point B in its modding life.. then gets all butt hurt when i give him a dose of reality.. granted i probibly could've been a bit more somber in my response... he just didnt seem to be getting the idea.

I applaud the fact u want a car at 14.. i think your probibly getting in over your head with your ideas on what you THINK your going to do..u want to mod it ? GREAT more power to ya.. but dont ****ing get pissy when people with more experience here tell you how its going to be dude.

Good luck.

[boostedmr2]

^ i agree with you, that is why i suggest just getting a shell and bring it to a sound running stock car. Then once you get a better job and are a little older, you will have a car ready to be modded and in the process learn your car in the stock form. By doing it this way you will have a running car and not one that is constantly breaking down and giving you trouble. Then start with small mods that will support bigger future mods. At 14 you can buy and have a car, just keep in mind it will take longer for you that's all so start small.

[ghstrg78]

Because real man wear pink... SO I want a Pink car lol

you also listen to flyleaf... ha... just kidding she kicks ass!

[JDMTyler3326]

I really want this
http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/943936848.html
Gonna call him tomorrow

[boostedmr2]

You can't drift properly with front wheel drive man. Rear wheel drive FTW!

[JDMTyler3326]

You can't drift properly with front wheel drive man. Rear wheel drive FTW!

I know but some thing about his car is SO nice.

[jdm free]

I really want this
http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/943936848.html
Gonna call him tomorrow

converting to obd1 will be a poa when u dont know much about cars. also i dont know if i would trust that the motor runs.

but that is a good deal if the listing is true

[JDMTyler3326]

converting ecu's will be a poa when u dont know much about cars. also i dont know if i would trust that the motor runs.

Idk y but I like this car... I am gonna call him and have me and my dad and his friend go check it out tomorrow

[Renegade_]

Because real man wear pink... SO I want a Pink car lol
If you think that kind of pink has some merit to it, you need to be shown some taste and class in color.

I want you to look through this: http://zilvia.net/f/chat/173624-definitive-paint-thread-nuff-said.html

The entire thing.

[3rdGenMr2Girl]

I really want this
http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/943936848.html
Gonna call him tomorrow

totally disappointing if you get this

[JDMTyler3326]

totally disappointing if you get this

Idk. Tomorrow I will see wants up with it.

[abrok99]

you cant jdm tyte drift a civic lol?!?!?!

why dont you get a fox body mustang rwd cheap parts and you can find the parts easier ?

[Instigator1225]

K swap that bitch and run motha fukas down.

[iloveturbolag]

i bought my first DSM when i was 14 (awd black 95 R.I.P). great experiance and definatly helped with all the ladies back then too :). seriously tho, real time with a car you dont need to have running to get to work/school the next day is great experiance. i learned from taking it apart and putting it all back together. if your not 100% about your not abuilities i suggest getting a running car thats mechanicaly sound and starting from there. the main thing you have to think about is that car depritiate extremely fast. if you 14 1/2 now, you wont be driving for another 2 years. the average half-life of a new cars value in the states is 5 years. factor into that the money you would be making those two extra years and now your going from 95 civic si price range to old sti/evo price range...

when your 14 and look at a car that you could potentially own, its very tempting to just grab the first thing you see. i HIGHLY recomend you go look at atleast 5-10 cars befor you make your decision. decide whether you want a fwd, rwd, or awd. all three are extremly different and will be used for different things. do alot of research on each car. WHAT CAR TO BUY SHOULD BE AN ENTIRLY DIFFERENT POST. once u've decided u definatly want to buy a car now then come back on and ask what you should get.

you were on track with your mr2 and 240 comment, i'd stick with RWD.

IMO buy a decent S13 5spd. its a great platform to start with and parts are CHEAP. play around with it while your saving money and then swap in a SR20 redtop. it won't break any records or win any shows but its fairly easy and there is plenty of info out there on it. i love my S14 and the SR is surprisingly quick.

BEST OF LUCK!

[Honduh]

I really want this
http://cnj.craigslist.org/cto/943936848.html
Gonna call him tomorrow

That is sweet. The only thing I'd really worry about is the wire tuck being done and it not running yet.

[CleanNeon98]

I cant believe I missed this thread all this time. Start with something like a civic, I would say 240sx but I wouldn't get RWD as my first car.

[JDMTyler3326]

I cant believe I missed this thread all this time. Start with something like a civic, I would say 240sx but I wouldn't get RWD as my first car.

I was gonna look at that civic but it is sold. I may look in to a integra

[TurboTagTeam]

Buy my car.......Project complete.

But if you wrapped it around a pole...I'd be a little upset.

[JDMTyler3326]

Buy my car.......Project complete.

But if you wrapped it around a pole...I'd be a little upset.

lol o dont have 15k lol

[JDMTyler3326]

Ok well I am gonna bump this.

I am gonna be looking into a Honda Civic coupe shell for $350 from a member here.

[Matt@EuroJerks]

You should be doing chicks and drugs not engine swaps!!!

[Shoolig]

I wouldn't buy a FWD car if you want to "drift", because, they can't... since the back wheels have no power going to them.

Anyhow.

Hondas:
+1 relatively cheap and easy to work on... a little nitrous and DOHC VTEC and you can hit 12's.
-1 They're FWD, get stolen often, a few parts can be pricey (distributors, heads, b16 trans), don't sound good, and even if you can beat an Evo you will still get made of (I did anyway lol)

240's:
+1 Easy to work on, transmissions especially easy to replace, reliable, RWD, cheap. Parts are abundant as well and have good potential, even on a DOHC KA.
-1 Slow as hell with N/A KA, swaps cost more than Honda swap, usually not in the best shape body/rust wise.

300ZX:
+1 Reliable, 400+BHP 3XXRWHP w/ downpipes, tune & intake, LSD RWD, sexy, N/A can fit massively wide tires, 14's out of N/As with tune/bolt-ons, t-tops, fun to drive factor is HUGE
-1 Pain to work on, relatively pricey

DSM:
+1 Cost per dollar highest horsepower gain, factory turbo, AWD, cheap parts, readily available parts, 13's with a boost controller/intake/exhaust... 12's with fuel+tune... 11's with turbo+fuel+tune. Huge power potential.
-1 They break. They break. Did I mention they break? Many DSM's are not put together correctly, be careful when buying.

VW:
+1 Decent reliablilty, VR6's sound nice, different?
-1 Underpowered, relatively costly to turbocharge with good results, FWD, some are complete lemons.

Fbody:
V6's suck and V8's are kinda pricey, so, I won't get into them.

Mustang GTs:
+1 Torque! Sound great, RWD, love nitrous and mods, good straight line car.
-1 Some look like garbage, don't handle too well, interior kind of blows.

Good luck finding something to make you happy... I'd recommend a 240SX though and DOHC swap it, then, turbo it when you have time.

Or a DSM if you know how to work on ****.

TT Z if you have the means or start selling drugs.

[endlessmyk]

I'm highly advising against the thought of this kid buying a DSM. When it's running you'll go fast, but that's only a few days our of the year. Plus, it will give you herpes.
Do not buy a DSM. It will frustrate you 300 days out of the year. You'll be looking to go cheap, so you'd probably end up with a junk turbo kit. Get even more frustrated with it, then want to sell it. You'll put the price up, it will be kinda high (for an ebay modded DSM) because of the amount that you put into it, someone like me will tell you it's not worth that much, you'll get pissed. Car won't sell, you'll lower the price closer to what the person like me said it's worth. I'll see it again, offer you even less now, and eventually you'll realize you have to bite the bullet and sell it for that. Then I'll have to redo the thing and get rid of the pink paint job.
Don't buy a DSM.

I don't ever want to see a pink DSM driving around. I don't ever want to have to repaint a pink DSM.

[gorabbit]

save your money. dont waste money on neons, bodykits, spoilers. do your research save as much as you can and wait for an unmodified car that you are satisfie with. thats the best advice I can give

[87fierogt]

im in levittown if ya ever need any help also.
here my thoughts with the + -

fiero(im biased though) the + are they are cheap to buy and work on,the fiero forum(really just 1 big one) is very close and very willing to help and you have many diffrent engine choices. the - is if you get hit hold on and pray lol

merkur xr4ti(look it up ;) basicly a mustang svo. if you like what you see pm me i know where a veryyy clean one is sitting needs a little engine work but has some 1 off engine mods and rust free which you basicly never see and has some rare optional cosworth body parts full suspension upgrade and brakes and comes with the stock stuff(you can sell to have more money to build)

any older hondas would be perfect just watch for rust
a first gen mr2 if you can find one and like someone else said a fox body i would look for a v6 notchback car as they are very easy and cheap to swap a 5.0 into

[jdm free]

You should be doing chicks and drugs not engine swaps!!!

sigd

find a cheap honda shell, swap a d16 in it and suspension. u dont need a fast car since u dont know how to drive yet.

[stover]

im with everyone else on this, stockpile your money first, i took on a project car with only 600 dollars, spent 250 on the car and im only half done and totally broke, luckily i do have a second car to daily drive so the car can sit as long as i need it to, but its upsetting when you dont have money to work on the project

[Tyler]

You should be doing chicks and drugs not engine swaps!!!

hahahaa im going to have to be the second person to sig this.

[IdriveBad]

Just go check out a handful of cars and give them a test drive. Pick which one you like best. You can hear opinions all day on the internet, best way is to just get hands on and go check them out. If you can't drive bring someone who can and knows about cars.

[Kouki Crisp]

enjoy your youth. Cars are gonna come and go. Live it up little buddy.

[abrok99]

Just go check out a handful of cars and give them a test drive. Pick which one you like best. You can hear opinions all day on the internet, best way is to just get hands on and go check them out. If you can't drive bring someone who can and knows about cars.

he doesnt have a license or permit:eek: haha

if you start a project now your gonna have to save up alot of lunch money hahaha:wink:

[JDMTyler3326]

Hellz ya this Friday I am gonna have a car in the drive way. American Muscle. I am not saying anything on it until I post up pics.


ALSO lownslow95 dont say thing about it or I am gonna hurt you lol.

[lownslow95]

I don't think so.

[Soon2bG60]

Now since you have a car, and i do.. Wanna make a competion outta this.

person to make the most horsepower by the time there 16 wins? lol.

[JDMTyler3326]

Now since you have a car, and i do.. Wanna make a competion outta this.

person to make the most horsepower by the time there 16 wins? lol.

lol lets go... It is going DOWN

[lownslow95]

Lets do this Pinks style, but you each get to keep your own cars.

[jjm4life]

am i too old for this sht or is just me? ha... good luck with the build

[Soon2bG60]

lol lets go... It is going DOWN

Its on. But i think i got you beat already :wink:

Turbonetics do work.

[JDMTyler3326]

Its on. But i think i got you beat already :wink:

Turbonetics do work.

lol ok... of course because it doesn't run lol

[Soon2bG60]

lol ok... of course because it doesn't run lol

haha, even when it does, it better pack a good punch.

All i knkow is american muscle, What motor you looken, or have? if you wanna give that out.

[JDMTyler3326]

haha, even when it does, it better pack a good punch.

All i knkow is american muscle, What motor you looken, or have? if you wanna give that out.

350 small block

[Soon2bG60]

350 small block

Thats what was in my dads nova.
All i gotta say, and comeing from another kid that has a car, and its fast.

Save save save.