Bought my car half complete and haven't looked back since. While it was going together, I decided to do some upgrades that enhanced longevity of the new motor. You would cry if I told you what I really paid for my car. But if it makes you feel any better, I have put a ton of money and most importantly effort into it to get it where it is today.
Ask anyone at SS what they thought of my car when I first obtained it. Elbow grease goes a long way.