Looking to rebuild

Hey all,

I'm looking in about 6 months to rebuild a car completely custom. I was thinking of going with something with lots of power but completely unsure of what I should go with.

I'm basically going to start off with a frame and engine and go from there (my first project car basically) with both electronics and body, though a body to work with would help. Any suggestions on what might be a good car to go with that I would be able to customize completely and isn't a piece of crap low power import or anything like that?.

Suggestions and comments would be very welcome.

Thanks all,
Matt

anything built before 1974 that weighs less than 4000 lbs is a good bet.