[PontGuy]

I also did my first restore when I was around 25 years old (67 Firebird). In some ways it was easier- parts were still available in local junkyards, etc. But in some ways it was harder- no internet forums for advice and the supply of restoration parts was much more limited. But, and this is big- I also had already graduated from college, had a good-paying job, and had my own house with a real double garage.

If I remember I put about $15K over a period of a few years into that Firebird to get it really nice, doing most everything myself including bodywork/paint and the engine build, but that was 25 years ago.

Fast forward to now. I just recently finished my 69 Lemans vert. Well, never really finished but now more in tinkering and maintenance mode. This one cost me over $40K to do though I did farm out the engine build, and exterior paint and bodywork to others which added some to the cost. I kept a running total which is attached just so you can see how it quickly it can add up. Keep in mind that I started with a pretty functional driver in much better shape than the car you are working on.

As for getting your money out of it, forget that. I look at restoring a car as a hobby, and all good hobbies are expensive. If the "restoration adventure" is worth it to you, and the car is what you want and you have the cash needed then go for it. But if you just want to own a classic car then go buy one because its a whole lot less expensive than doing one yourself.

As for how to do it you are already getting some good advice here. I prefer to do mine in phases instead of tearing the whole car apart and rebuilding it all at once. Less intimidating, helps spread the cost, and I get to drive in-between phases. Lots and lots of pictures, tag and bag parts, keep a running notebook with sketches and notes. Use original parts wherever possible. Sounds like you got a bit ahead of yourself with the tear-down but suggest that you stop now and organize everything the best you can before doing anything else.

If it were me I would concentrate on cleaning it all up and reassembling, fixing mechanical/electrical systems as I went along to make it road worthy. Forget about cosmetic details for now. Just getting to this point will take a bunch of time and money. Then drive it for a while and plan next steps.

As for the engine there are plenty of us that have perfectly good running Pontiac 350's without a home. You should be able to find one very cheap or even free with a little hunting around. If you want to go fast I would make a high-perf Pontiac engine swap part of a later phase. Remember that building for hi-horses involves more than just the engine. The trans, rear end, suspension, cooling system, etc. all need to be up to the task which adds to the cost and complexity.

[2002Z4CSS]

That Lemans looks to be a decent car, to restore. My GT-37 appears to have more rust issues than this car. I too plan on restoring it one day. Just gathering all parts that I need, while keeping it a driver. Most importantly having fun with it. While the parts are being collected. I would also say pictures, labeled boxes, bags etc will help in the restoration process.Years ago my son and I redone his Camaro , we labeled items, took lots of pictures. That really helped us to put it back together years later.