Opinion question? What to start with??

I'm new to this particular board but if it is like the others I normally read this question should spark debate.

Before divnig head first into restoring a vintage auto I feel I need to learn quite a bit more about cars - especially mechanical/suspension/etc. I was thinking of buying something that I could work/learn on. Maybe a GM product from the late 50-mid 60s. The car itself isn't of the utmost importance although i do like impalas and the like.

If you were starting from the beginning - I've done some minor brake and suspesion work, tune up, etc - what would you be looking for?

What is the easiest engine/tranny to work/learn with? Straight 6? Slant 6? V8?

I realize that this is a matter of opinion and that is all i'm looking for. I'm not looking to buy junk but I've learned from past experience to start small and then work your way up.

Thanks maurice

Sent via Deja.com http://www.deja.com/ Before you buy.

Depends upon what you plan on using it for. If you want a driver, the full size had 3 trim levels (Impala being the top) and the body parts are pretty common (trim like taillights and chrome level were most of the differences). I'd also get the 6 cyl. for economy and a 3 speed for the fun of it. Unless you put a big engine in it, you won't get that much performance out of the car because they are fairly heavy - weight went up in the '58-'60 timeframe. You might want to consider something that doesn't need too much body work as a first car because that ends up taking a long time. BTW, don't plan on using the car for a year or more as you're going to be doing all kinds of things to it before it's ready for the road.

A 60's 6cyl. compact.

Yep, the Valiant/Dart with the slant 6 is good for 28mpg all day long and they are nice and funky looking. The pushbutton auto is also a

Start with a decent car that you'd like to own, you can drive at highway speeds, and that does NOT need restoration immediately. Doing this will get you out to car events, get you to meet other owners and just have a great time. You don't need a 100 point showcar to enjoy antique cars.

Cheers and happy car hunting.

Bill, Triumph sports car owner/enthusiast

A flathead 6 is probably the easiest to work on, but I would get something that you will enjoy driving when you're done. The mid 60's Falcons were neat, and the 260 cube V-8 was a neat little engine. Pretty hot little package with 4 on the floor.