Ron,

What you wrote could have been penned by me about a year ago. (except for all the gear head comments). I would say 98% of the people on this board are here because of a common hobby bond, not to spew their mechanical prowess. And if they help each other out along the way, it works out for everyone.

When I bought my '67 a couple of years ago, I went through all the same questions you listed. I ended up deciding to go the stock-original route mostly because I had the numbers matching engine and trans, so keeping it original (looking) was relatively easy.

I was very happy the way my car turned out, although it looks a lot more 'sleeper' than hot rod.

I am sure however you choose to finish your car, you will also be very happy in the end. It's also easy to modify your car with 'revrsable' mods such as mag wheels or chrome trim. But then you are right, spending money twice.

In my honest opinion, you can't go wrong with a stock-original car, whereas a future potential buyer may not like whatever mods you did for your own taste.

And similarily to your statement about keeping the car 'forever', I will be doing the same with mine. My 10 YO and 7 YO girls are already deciding behind my back who gets which car. So under this line of thoughts, make it the way that you will most enjoy.

As I posted earlier, I felt it was much easier to replace the bulk of the metal because when I was done, I knew what I had. If you don't replace questionable areas, they can come back to ruin a lot of past work and money.

I hate to say it, but the most fun I had restoring my '67 was chasing down all the required parts. (either original used, NOS, or repop). Although a nice sunny day like today is great for the top down cruise home.

Hope this helps!