It recently crossed my mind that these cars can be had for pretty cheap and they seem to be good learner's cars. So what are Car Talk's thought on this?

Which one should I opt for? Found a couple of SR5 shells. 1 1987 with no engine or tranny, but full interior and running gear for 700. And a 1985 with engine and tranny but doesn't run. Both are hatches.

Basically, I'm thinking about getting a beater/fun car that doesn't cost too much. Plus, I think it would be a good learning experience to swap engines, etc. What are some good swaps and for how much? The 20V seems to be very popular.

Anyone with some experience, please chime in

Last but not least, any other cars that fit this criteria? No Miatas, they are a bit out of my budget to mod.

 

1985 shell is only 450 bucks btw

 

As a project? Maybe. As a cheap mode of transportation? No.

 

They should be paying you to pick up their (s)crap.

 

a sr5 is carbed will need fuel injection lines hooked up and other things.

 

I understand the iconic nature of this car (i guess...) but I can't imagine the car is study in chassis rigidity. Additionally, it's got to be hard to find parts for them.

By the time your finished, the FT86 will be on the market and it will likely cost you less than restoring a 25 year old car.

 

Its not restoring or anything like that. Maybe just a fun learning experience. The car is pretty "sloppy" due to various reasons but parts a very cheap and not too hard to find. The 4AC will be taken out and maybe a 20v swap.

 

^ If you think it'd be an interesting project and learning experience, then go for it.

 

I say dump all the money in your S instead.

 

If I were to do that, I'd need a lot more than my budget to get what I want for the s2k.

Plus, I'd rather not put too much stress on the S2000 and worry about it when I race. Just wondering if the corolla would offer some piece of mind. Also found a FC Rx7 GTUs shell for 900 obo.. Is that a better buy?