best car for leaner at mechanic to mod

[DrFutura]

I was thinking a bit along similar lines, though I have quite a bit of experience. I had various Fords and even built a KitCar over twenty years ago (Escort Mk2 based). I am thinking of having something to play with in the garage once my daughter's car frees it up if she ever passes her test. Suggested minis and VW beetles are silly money, as are any rear drive Fords now, even Sierras which were complete crap except possible some of the engines and gearboxes. There are not any rear drive decent motors (MX5: spit, hairdressers only) and BMWs are too expensive and too complicated.

I was wondering about a Suzuki Ignis sport or a Ford Sportka as both are now getting cheap and there are tuning parts out there. I know some Kas are rotboxes, but both handle well. A Peugeot 106 Rallye would be nice, but they are silly money too. I used to be handy with a spanner, but have little skill at bodywork. I am thinking about simple mods like induction and exhaust, maybe with some head work and a remap.

[Banana Boy]

Now is a good time to pick up a cheap project on ebay! One of my favourite searches is 'project' in cars and bikes etc!

Classic Minis are definately worth a serious look along with old Discoverys, both are designed to be fully serviced - literally alomst every single part can be stripped, serviced and rebuilt! As an added bonus, both cars will get you into welding st metal and the parts are so cheap you'll be constantly finding something to tinker with!