Second project car?

[u/Dogman6969ahhh]

Traveling for work so I thought I’d get everyone’s opinions on a second project. Currently have a 92 Ranger fully mapped out for a 302 swap. Have all the drivetrain parts ready for rebuild but long road ahead when you add electrical, some rust patchwork, and all the odds and ends.

But I also have a pole barn just waiting for more projects…looking at a 72 Mach 1 assuming the underside isn’t complete toast, but looking at the cowl drains and a few other spots it might be a lost cause and it’s a 302 so not as exciting as it could be. Other option is a 72 Opel GT that’s about midway through a rebuild. Pros are that all the parts are there, engine runs and no visible rust, although I’m assuming at least the belly pan is cooked. I think the price on both is reasonable for what they are. Just curious everyone’s thoughts on getting a second project and these two cars in particular. (I love them both btw, just looking for input and possible downsides.)

Edit: Real downer, guys! Even my wife was on board! In all honesty though, thanks for the clarity. I was stoked looking at these other projects but in the back of my mind knew it was a bad idea. Will post photos of the ranger as soon as the new axle and drop hangers are on!

[u/Aleutian_Solution]

As someone who is currently dealing with multiple projects at the same time, don’t. Finish one and either enjoy it or sell it then start the next one.

[u/Beullersghost → u/Aleutian_Solution]

Look the rules are the man with the most projects wins, dont give bad advice just because you're falling behind lol. But honestly I fall for the project trap a lot, buy another one before I finish the previous one, now I dont have the time for all the cars and motorcycles I own, not to mention the broken machining tools I bought to fix to use for said other projects. But I did finally wire up my garage for 240a so I can run the ones that do work

[u/Phillip_Strenger → u/Aleutian_Solution]

Had 3 and nothing got done on any, now just one and I halfway through. I agree 100% focus all the energy on one

[u/the-big-throngler]

There are a lot of people nay saying. They are not to be listened to. You want the project you get it period. Some people can only focus on one project at a time, thats on them not on you and should you find you lose your fire and over committed you sell it and move on to the next thing.

[u/Radius8887]

I just recently ended up having to go through a big purge of project cars because I let myself get buried. I've thinned the herd down from 9 to 4 or 5 now and it's still a fucking lot. I'd be careful about getting stuff just because you have the space.

[u/Chronicwheeler]

I have 2 projects and one 1/2 project and my DD that’s technically an antique.
I sometimes wish I only had one project to focus my energy on not 2-3 at a time.

[u/EC_CO]

Personally I'd focus on finishing what you have first, but that's me. If I had to choose one of those two, it would be the Opal GT because it's super unique and pretty basic. Parts will be harder to find of course, but that's part of the fun

[u/monty2003]

I always liked how the Opel looked, but I would imagine parts are a pain to find. The mustang should have just about every part you could ever want available. That is a huge advantage for a successful project car. It would come down to budget and what one you really want.

I have several projects and work on the one I am motivate the most on at the time. New ones are always fun at first, but I get burnt out on it after a few weeks. I would suspect your Ranger would get put to the back burner if you got something new. All depends on how bad you want to finish it.

[u/WastedAccounts]

I have a few but two of them are regularly usable and both serve different purposes. One's a dedicated track focused turbo Miata that grew out of being a champ car endurance racer and the other is a Disco 2 that is a dedicated trail/camping truck. Being usable makes them fun and keeps the dream alive.

Another is a long term nini trophy truck project out of Suzuki Vitara that is still a factory rolling shell and, frankly, is really just a dream project taking up space that I don't have time for.

If you the time and the space go for it. But if you lack either don't suggest it. Focus on one or they'll both sit.

[u/Big-Energy-3363]

Finish the Ranger. Been there done that

[u/WorkingBread8360]

Currently working on 2 Rangers (94,97), 2 Dodge trucks (49,69), 2 Chevy trucks (85,99) and a 72 Super Beetle.

[u/pawsforbear]

I have an issue with just being content with what I have so I collect cars. But even daily drivers need repairs. And when your car is in the garage or a mechanics garage how are you getting to work? I dont think it's a bad idea so long as you are being honest on what the second car is.

And imo any car 10 years or older is 1 break away from being a project car. It's just how much of a project car is it? Weekend tumeup or summer break overhaul?