Well, a car question

[Abarsai]

Ok, I am very new when it comes to modding cars. Car electronics and things along those lines I can do blindfolded. Mechanically though, currently I am a complete beginner. So now that everyone knows where I am coming from then I can ask my question.

I plan to start my first big car project which would be to buy and mod out a car. There are a few cars that I was interested in, the Celica, Integra, Eclipse and the Accord. What I am looking for in a car is Acceleration, handling and an easy base to mod from, lol. When it comes to looks, I plan to get a body kit but starting with something that looks decent is a big plus. I currently have a 2001 corolla and for my second car, this project, I would like something a little wider and more substantial. I am also looking for something that is cheap to start from, what I really want is just the body, trans and basic workings as I plan on replacing most things with aftermarket parts. As I mentioned above my car knowledge is not that great but I do have people that can help me so I will have help. So, what is a good, inexpensive, car that would be a good base for me to start with?

Also, if any of you have suggestions for sources or resources that I should read or any info that might be useful please let me know.

Thanks in advance!

[Igovert500]

Well all 4 are popular tuner cars, because they are pretty cheap to own/maintain and find parts for. But it is pretty easy to say the one with the largest potential would be a turbo eclipse. Stock it will be the quickest, and since it is boosted and so popular, hp is cheap and easy to come by. Granted they do have the their reliability issues, of the 4 you listed, Mitsu is a tad behind in the reliability topic, but if you are serious about modding for speed, it is probably teh best way to go. To get any serious power out of the other 3, you are going to have to swap a motor or put on some sort of forced induction anyway...eclipse already comes with it.

[Abarsai]

Hey!

Thanks for the response!

The four I listed are all possible options but any car outside those four is also welcome! The ones I listed are just the ones that I have heard a bit about. The biggest problem I have with an eclipse is that they have considerable amount of engine and road noise. I know there are simple and cheap ways to fix that problem but it is still a drawback. Would you recommend any other car? Even outside the 4 I listed?

Thanks!

[drdisque]

Mazda 6 and Subaru WRX would be 2 more options.

[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.