I agree with the other posts but with a few qualifications. I would say: 1) Find something you are passionate about 2) Be realistic, do you have the skills (and cash) to bring a car back? Remember it is very easy to put 10K in a 5K car. 3) Know the marketplace for you choice. We all say it is a labor of love and we will never part with it. Don't forget, the divorce courts are full of people who once said that. The day MAY come when you will want to sell your pride and joy. Make sure you know what the demand is for your choice. If you have the only "left handed lunchbox in Chicago", there may be a very good reason for it! 4) After saying all that, buy the very best example of your choice you can afford. A car that "never was" a rust bucket will allways be better than one that was no matter how good you are!

Choose something that you like. It doesnt have to be your dream car. I am restoring a 66chevy C10. Older pickups are becomming a popular item nowadays. Besides they are easier to work with/on.

Sources: www.stovebolt.com