If you dont' want to rebuild a 4 cyl (which is really your best bet these days) then you might want to look into older RWD V8 domestic cars or trucks. Parts are inexpensive and readily available. Good choices are Fox era musangs and 4th generation camaros. But, also look at off models, too, like RWD Buicks and Oldsmobiles, or the larger Chevy's and Fords. Or even go with a full size shot whelbase pickup, like the Chevys from the '80s. EASY to work on and get parts for.
That's what we did with my stepson. His first "car" was a truck. A '79 Chevy stepside.
Started with this:
And rebuilt it:
And ended up with this:
The 350 V8 was easy to work on and upgrade.