For the most part, if a younger individual were to ask me where to start looking for their first project car, I’d start at about 1993 and work my way newer from there. Parts are available, you might find cars in yards (a problem, seeing how many yards are all too happy to turn over inventory anymore) and there’s a plethora of engines and tuning capabilities that will apply. But what if they’re insistent on older stuff? Then it becomes more individualized…and problematic, since what I refer to as “chrome-bumper syndrome” is a legitimate thing. Basically, if it’s old enough that cars of that model year were sold with chromed bumpers, it’s now a “collectable” or the most gag-worth word on the classified ads, “rare”. People will act like they’re hoarding gold and diamonds when in reality, they’ve got a basic vehicle that is only unique because of it’s age and condition compared to what’s out there. 
So let’s say this hypothetical individual has their heart set on a Camaro and has no interest in a third-gen. This 1978 Type LT would be a great starting point. The price is surprisingly nice for a second-gen car lately, at $3,250. It’s a 350 with an automatic on the column, the body at least looks straight enough, the 14×7 Ansens are a nice touch, and it’s all one color. Some basic hop-up tricks, some mild restoration work and any color that isn’t Primer Red and this could be a nice F-body. But if I was a kid looking, seeing “This is a collector vehicle” with the “original numbers-matching 305 V8 engine” and other descriptors that make it sound like it’s something worth heavy coin, would I want to deal with the seller who sounds highly protective of this machine?
This Camaro is a great Rough Start fit. Having a bit of coin left will assure that this car will be a decent driver while the long-term work is prepared for. But c’mon, sellers…this is a 305 Camaro that has the door fit issue, rough interior, no carpet and an underhood that’s still as dismal as they looked brand-new. Don’t church it up.
So how much ya think I’ve left on the table in the last 35 years by shitcanning those numbers matching v-6s I’ve pulled outta all those G-bodies? I’ve had over a dozen and only 2 were factory V-8s, both El Caminos.
The article says 350, the ad says 305, either way the best thing about this Camaro (very decent, reasonably priced) is no t-tops.
Drove a blue 78 LT right out of HS. Did a little work on the engine, put real dual exhaust on it. Nice stereo, kept it mint. All the girls loved it, and it was a fun ride. It would be a cool starter car for someone.
column shift nice there a rare one. I had a friend with a 68 Camaro 250 inline 6 with a powerglide and column shift
You overcome suffering, it is your wealth; suffering overcomes you, it is your humiliation
You overcome suffering, it is your wealth; suffering overcomes you, it is your humiliation