Like a lot of the guys on here, I have been around this hobby for a long time......48 years, since I got "hooked"! :-) Because of my chosen profession, I hear a lot about the money that is spent on projects. I have also built many of my own, and bought and sold special interest cars for profit.

This rule is always true: It will always take longer, cost more, and have more problems, to finish than you think. If you don't believe it, ask other "experienced" builders, who have done this many times.

Here is my best advise:

All of the little stuff, that seems so simple, will cost a lot when it's over.

You are very young (from my point of view) and probably don't have all of the skills and experience, yet, to build it all yourself. When you start hiring it done, the cost goes WAY up!

Parts from the '20s and '30s are scarce, and can be expensive, for the desireable pieces.

Cars from the '20s and '30s are not really roadworthy today, so they need many, many upgrades.

My very best advise is to buy a car that is complete and almost driveable, but rough and needs the final work to make it useable. Consider anything from the '20s to the '50s. This will make it more likely you can find a good project, and those cars can be way-cool, too, if you do something unusual with them. Pay a little more than you planned, if you find the RIGHT CAR. If you take on major fabrication, reengineering, major installation, or starting from scratch, you will not only be several years from completion, but you may even run out of money, or ambition before it is ever done.

Make your first project one that requires only mechanical knowledge, minimal cost, and rudimentary work to complete. This will help you to hone your skills, ensure your success, and it will still end up being tougher than you think.

Later you can upgrade the car, or try a little more difficult project.

Don't expect to build a dream car on the first attempt. You will get better each time, and you will find that no matter how old you get, you always have more to learn. Make the first one something you are proud of, and enjoy the experience.