My 2 cents. Reading OP posts, a couple of things I will comment. 1st: Will value be different from converting a 6 vs.v8. You may never get an answer because what matters to one does not to another. A well done 6cyl. to 396, to me, trumps a hacked up sick running small block in a orig. v8 car. The car looked pretty nice and may be just the ticket for YOU and that leads to the 2nd comment. I think you have to do some soul searching and ask yourself what it is you really want. Now, you gave a hint stating you are not real mechanical and want something you can enjoy right away. If you really want an original Muscle car, like an SS or Z it may be ok to "cut your teeth" on a car like this, but you will never be totally satisfied because you will know it is a clone. If that is not the case you will still need to be honest with yourself and set a parameter of what you are after. Some like plain jane original survivor, some want a street beast, some want a convert. Some want RS package. Point is don't just settle for what you can afford. Make a list of what is important to you. As far as value, some find pro-touring cars appealing, but I would walk right by one to check out a "survivor" car. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder and value can be very subjective. Most all would agree that documented high horse with orig. drivetrain hold their value and are considered investment grade cars. A lot of us desire such and the ones who have them are fortunate. A lot here also realize that such cars are pricey and not in the price range. But if that is what you really want, I would search. There is always a good buy out there so don't get discouraged and get exactly what you are after, then you you will be happy regardless of the percieved value. With your admitted lack of knowledge, I would find a member here that is close and have them evaluate the work and help with your purchase.
