[Hantke]

I know i've been really excited to get this 1963 c10, but i've been comparing the costs, and recently, my friend started talking about selling is 1987 C10. both are 2wd, neither will be a daily driver, both may be used for work on occasion.

I've started a list of pro's / Cons, but what I want to know is if the 1963 is a really good deal, or if it would be better to hold up for now.


1963 GMC C10

Pros
one of my favorite model years
little rust
seems cheap to me
no emissions
short bed

Cons
no hood
no doors
needs new tires
235 I6 instead of 305 V6 (which i wanted)
parts availability for the engine
unknown changes to frame to install non-standard engine (i can only assume it needed new mounting points, tranny changes / mods, etc.
would need new paint
new bed floor
needs tires immediately

Cost: $900


1987 chevy C10

Pros
305 V8
Parts availability
no missing parts
light surface rust on the bed is the only rust spots on the truck.
all original

Cons
Requires emissions testing
not a 60-66 (pref. knee knockers though)
could use some body work / re-painting
2wd (i'd prefer 4wd, but wouldnt we all?)

$800

So i figure in the end, $900 truck + $600 hood (repro online) + 2x doors $300 ea roughly. 305E V6 $100-$800 depending on what i find, possible tranny parts (un known cost) mounting (free with help of welding friend) cherry picker $400+ for one able to lift the 305 big block, tires, and possibly
more.

In the end i'll be at around $2500 just for the basic stuff in this truck, i could go buy a decent running one off craigslist for that price.

on the other hand

87 C10 bondo $10 (repairing a dent in the bed) paint $200-$400 (if i go all out and actually paint it). 2bbl holly carb (supposedly increases MPG, but i need to research that more) $147 (deal through previous employment). Grand total = less than $1,500 and can be used as needed.

what are your opinions? If i get the 87 W/ 305 V8 I will eventually be getting a 60-66 anyways, mostly concerned for reliability right now, and usage as well.