[Igovert500]

There are sooo many options is ridiculous to even try to post a list. You have to decide whether you are building a car for go(speed) or for show(bodykit you mentioned above).
If you want a v8, like a mustang 5.0, a camaro, trans am, etc., expensive on gas, parts are relatively cheap, power is pretty cheap. Or a 4cylinder, where to get decent power you are looking at needing a turbo/supercharger or nitrous. There are so many different options.
I really think any cheap, dime a dozen car would be good to learn on. Anything that is cheap to buy, and cheap to get parts for is a good place to start with. Most likely, your starter learning car, wont end up being your true project car..because you are learning on it. I learned alot on my Honda before I ever bought my Mitsu.

I suggest hanging around here, go into the forums of hte specific cars you are interested in, and also the racing sections and just read as much as you can. I learned TONS from just reading online.