There are people who find the greatest feeling of joy by showing-off their cars to an auto show just for fame or pushing power on the race tracks on weekends just for fun. And there are also many car enthusiasts who simply love tearing their cars down to the bare bones and getting them rebuilt from the grown up. This is how project cars are born.

A project car is usually a new model vehicle that is cheaply purchased, where the owner is interested in customizing and modifying the car instead of preserving manufacturers’ standard features. As automotive industry keeps evolving, there are various aftermarket shops and DIY guys emerging on the auto platforms that produce third-party auto accessories and components.

It is like good friends and families gather on their garages for couple of beers and find pleasure while wrenching on their project cars. Without a doubt, this is how many engineering concepts are often born that create automotive innovations, far from the world’s biggest automakers’ engineering laboratories.

When it comes to project cars, the higher priority occasionally comes to muscle and sports cars. Although these cars are costly even in their poor conditions, inexpensive options can also be found on certain models that are easy to fix as well.

So, a proper plan is crucial while choosing a project car to really give the build-up traction and save some pain in your wallet. Some important factors include considering the engine importance, conditions of interior or exterior because the primary motive should be to choose the strongest car concerning the advantages and disadvantages against price.

So, check out what best suits you from the following top ten awesome project cars and start wrenching sooner than later:

Toyota Corolla (1984-1987)

When it comes to a long-lasting assembly line subcompact and compact cars, Toyota Corolla is no exception. While the Corolla has managed to become the best-selling nameplate worldwide, it is also the most popular car to wrench on. When you look for the best chassis build options, the Corolla models between 1984 and 1987 are recommended because of the rear-wheel drive and simplicity in engine rebuilds, while you can find them inexpensive. Some issues including fuel pumps, gearbox, etc, should be well-informed.

Nissan 240SX (1989-1998)

For anyone looking for high performance at a low cost, Nissan 240SX can be a perfect project car model. You will find his older sports coupe in a rear-wheel drive configuration with a manual gearbox and the prices ranges can also be quite affordable based on their existing shape and conditions. You can explore various options while cheaply getting older models that acquire a 5-lug conversion.

The DSM (1989-1999)

Founded in 1985, Diamond-Star Motors (DSM) was an automobile-manufacturing joint venture between the Chrysler Corporation and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation. This joined force had produced a range of popular turbocharged performance cars including the Plymouth Laser, the Eagle Talon, and of course the Mitsubishi Eclipse. What makes these vehicles the great examples of ideal project cars is that these models typically came with a turbo, all-wheel drive, and manual gearbox.

Honda Civic (any generation)

A line of sub-compact and compact cars manufactured by Honda, the Civic is one of the most admired commuter vehicles worldwide. It has been in production since 1972 and have undergone several generational changes. There are various customization options available with aftermarket components and accessories being made available. Popular engine swamping options usually include supercharging the high-revving K series engine found in recent generations of the Si and the J-series V6.

Mazda Miata (1990-1997)

In terms of affordability and fun, the Miata, first launched in 1989, is one of the longest-running sports model from Mazda. As there have been several generational changes since its production, a wide range of aftermarket and replacement items are available, making it one of the most credible project cars. Following the 1994, this rear-wheel drive was upgraded to offer larger wheels, brakes, engine, etc. So, these models from the mid-to-late 1990s are the perfect to turn into project.

Acura Integra (1994-2001)

Also known as the Honda Integra, Acura Integra is was a front-engine sports car that was produced from 1985 to 2006. This four-wheel drive automobile had done exceedingly well in the United States market. Though this model is out of production, you can still see quite a lot while driving down the market. Due to its high demand as a popular project car, it may prove expensive to purchase. So shop around and look for the best bargain before really committing to one.

Lexus SC 300/400 (1992-1996)

Lexus, an assembly line of luxury automobiles, are not usually considered as ideal cars for projects; however, there are certain models such as the SC 300 and 400, that can manage to offer you great options. While making these cars available near about $7,000, their engines are perfectly suitable for a V8 or a turbocharged Supra powertrain. It is great to consider those models between 1992 and 1996 because these cars are sleek and significant in their heyday.

Scion xB (2004-2006)

When the XB first hit the market, there were quite a few criticisms and rejections concerning the design. Depending on how you feel about the design, this youth oriented compact car can still make a great project car while offering a lot of possibilities such as you can effortlessly hike its engine and lots options can also be obtained in its interior. The only issue on the way is its costly price. So, if you are really looking for this one, do research a lot and try to crack a reasonable bargain.

Ford Mustang (any generation)

This American automobile has been in production since 1964. Having in production for quite a long time, you can have a wide range of replacements and aftermarket accessories and components. Due to its extensive production history, you can easily find cheap bargain, making it one of the popular vehicle for a perfect project. While its any generation can be considered, you can give priorities to the models from the 1980s and 1990s.

Chevrolet Impala (any generation)

Without a Chevrolet classic, a project car list can not be completed. For example, the Impala has a long line of history and that means, a wide range of options such as engine swaps are available, making this vehicle one of the worthy project cars. You can go with any generation when looking for a project car on relatively slim budget.