Every once in a while I get the itch to experience a new car. But instead of asking around and just borrowing one for the afternoon, I hunt until I find an example that needs a little work. My logic may be flawed, but there is just something exciting about the whole process. The Triumph TR3 has been on my mind lately so I have been keeping tabs on local offerings and have even found a few in various states of disrepair. One of them is in a similar dismantled state as this 1959 TR3 that is listed here craigslist for $4,500 in Panonia, Colorado. What do you think? Is it ever smart to buy a disassembled project? Thanks goes to Dustyn for the tip!

Unfortunately, the seller does not provide any other photos so it is hard to determine what all is left to do here. They do mention that machine work has been done to the engine and that many new parts are included in the sale. New sheet metal has already been sourced for the rusted areas as well as a full interior kit. The bodywork needed here intimidates me a bit, but having the paint stripped and all the rust exposed does make it easier to determine what you are getting yourself into. The asking price may make this project tempting, but I can’t help but wonder if the cost to finish this one would exceed the restored value.

Here is a shot of the project I have been considering for myself. It may look about the same as the car above, but the seller has already repaired all the rust and painted it. The frame and suspension look they have also been gone through as well, so all that’s left is reassembly. That almost makes it sound like a simple task, but there is still a lot of work to do here. Gathering up all the old parts from the owner’s place is going to be a challenge and then there is the job of locating and purchasing all the missing trim pieces and hardware. Just figuring out what size of screw goes where could be a frustrating experience. The price is little higher on this one ($6.5k), but it would be nice to not have to deal with any rust or paint. So, from the information you have, which project would you go for and why? Or would you just hold out for something a little more put-together?