If you're going to cut it in half why not use the back half of a 57 Chevy.They got more chrome. Use the roof from a 57 Buick or Olds with the three piece rear window.I don't think you'll have to climb over the seat because you'll be driving from the back seat.
Maybe you could put a rumble seat in the trunk. They made a kit for this back in the 50s

Otherwise I'm on board with the "rat rod gasser" look.
AL

Wow I just noticed my post count is the same as dave's at 480.