Agree that it depends on what you want. I paid less than 1/2 of what they are asking for this car, and probably got a car about 1/4 as nice.
I ended up adjusting my goal from wanting a classic car to wanting experience and tools (welding, fabrication, and soon painting). I could/should have cut my losses along the way - but even with an extra $10K in (and likely $4K more to go) - I'm considering this cost of the entertainment and education, not of a car. Overall - I'm glad I'm doing this to a Sunbeam that was as beaten as mine vs. one that was nice from the start.
Regardless I think there are a few tenents for me in this game for the next time:
- Always check out a car in person
- Buy and appropriately price in necessary car projects (or not) - painting, engine, brakes, rust. OR - If you don't want projects, buy a show car.
- For lower demand/cost classis - if you want at least the chance of getting most of the money you put into it out of the car when you sell it, buy one that is complete and don't touch it