Classics and price

[Van D]

Hey guys, wasn't sure where to put this exactly as it doesn't really just relate to older Fords.

I've started to look out for a project/investment or even daily driver for when the time comes to take my current XT off the road.

What i'd really like is a mid to late 50's, to very early 60's typical styled, original car. You know, big mouth, lots of chrome etc. And either a 4 door sedan or wagon (something like a Ranch wagon, Chev Nomad etc).

I haven't looked into older than late 60's to early 70's cars much, but something i've always wanted to do, with prices going up everywhere, I thought I might try to grab something now before it's too late.

So basically, could I find a somewhat original/intact car that has some dents and rust for around 6-8k? I'm not expecting some Bel Air or T Bird, and it won't be restored for a few years, but if I could find something that doesn't look crash hot, yet could be just rego'd with a couple more G's spent i'd think about it, or something that isn't completely gone to rust, and can sit covered on a property until i've got through the XT and can work on it then.

What about parts? Obviously USA is going to be the best bet? What about even getting the car from there? Could it work out cheaper? What models should I be looking for? I'm not stuck on a Ford or Chev and i'm pretty open about it.

Any help would be great, or links etc to read up on the era and get more info too. I'd like to keep this car original, as my XT is not, and I almost regret pulling apart a nice original car with some history, heh.

Cheers.