So now we've reached decision time. My '91 Civic (aka "Grumpy") is up and running, I ordered the parts today to replace the timing belt and pulley, water pump, crank and cam seals. After this is complete and the alignment is done I will be at the crossroads of keep (and continue to improve), or sell and use the profits to invest in something else (I would love to get another E30, or another Miata, or get an old Z car).
So far, I've invested about $1000 into Grumpy, and I'm pretty sure I could sell him for at least $1500 (if not a bit more). That's ground-floor Miata and E30 money around here.
The Civic is cheaper to run and easier to work on than the E30 (but isn't as quick or stylish -- IMO) and it has more seats and space than the Miata (but, in current trim, isn't as quick, or stylish -- again, my opinion). Also, Grumpy is drivable right now whereas an $1800 E30 or Miata may need more investment to bring it up to par. Obviously, any car is going to get more investment, but am I going to be starting on a level playing field, or putting myself behind the curve of where my current car is?
I'm not totally in love with the Civic (either its looks or drivetrain layout (this is the first FWD I've ever owned)), but I don't look at it in the driveway and wish I didn't have to see and drive it everyday either.
Still, this is a third car, so it can afford to be out of the loop for a bit of time and not effect the day-to-day life of the Dustoff household. Decisions and choices...
